Basement Flooring Options Vary

Installing a new floor in your basement can be a huge undertaking. Decisions about how and what flooring to choose are important questions that must be answered before starting such a project. Basements pose a different set of issues due to their location and propensity to be humid and damp locations. These are detrimental to a lot of types of flooring. Finding out what your specific basement can handle is key to a successful project.

“Damp-proofing” which can provide some protection from dampness and “Water-proofing” which protects from actual water damage are two different ways to protect your basement and each has its own costs and what they really protect from. Damp-proofing can cost around $4 to $7 per square foot while water-proofing is more expensive at $6 - $11. While water-proofing is more costly it is worth noting that damp-proofing will not protect your basement from water damage so the extra amount of money spent may be beneficial in the long run. Even if your heating and cooling system is effective at keeping humidity levels at bay you may want to consider a dehumidifier. They often have a monitor on it that will help keep things in check. 

Because of location and draining tendencies, you may need to address leveling of the floor in order to protect your investment. By filling in any cracks with sealant from the hardware store, or by using concrete you can fill in spots to create a level floor. Once you account for any chance for water damage then you can use levels to make sure that any subfloor that has been added is sound you can proceed with the new flooring. 

There are several different types of flooring that can be used in a basement. A lot of people will consider carpeting as a more common choice. However, since we are thinking specifically for a basement there are some things to consider. A waterproof pad is recommended if you have worries over dampness and stains, peel-and-stick segmented squares if stains and wear are an issue are things to consider.

Vinyl flooring has many qualities that make it a perfect choice for a basement setting. It is relatively cheap to install since you can do it yourself in most occasions as well as being durable and moisture resistant. It comes in various styles and colors as well as some different textures. Its definitely a good option for the weekend do-it-yourself type homeowner. 

Wood flooring does not seem like it would be an option in an area prone to moisture issues. But the advancement in newly engineered wood flooring is an option that can work in these situations. This engineered wood does not use nails and screws so it's less likely to warp and change when moisture occurs. Laminate flooring is similar and its lock and groove type installation might work in the basement.

Keeping the original concrete flooring in the home is always an option. Finishing the concrete with many different textures and colors is always an option. There are also certain epoxy sealants that can help protect the floor as well. 

Find what works for you and make it yours!