4 Best Basement Flooring Options

Basement flooring can be a challenge. Unlike rooms above the ground, a basement naturally stays damp. This creates the perfect atmosphere for mold and mildew to grow and create bacteria. Here are 4 options for flooring to keep your basement living area free from the hazards of too much moisture. Consider hiring a basement floor contractor for preventing the damage caused by dampness in your new or remodeled basement.

Certain Floating Floors

Floating floors that use a moisture barrier between the concrete slab and the floating floor material keep moisture from breaking through to the surface. However, there are certain floors that work better than others. Look for products that are sealed and waterproof. Some of these include sheet vinyl, engineered hardwood flooring and laminate. Cork is a poor choice because it is a natural material that retains moisture and is difficult to seal.

Ceramic Tile

Placing ceramic tile directly on a basement floor seals the surface from damaging dampness. Hiring an expert in ceramic tile installation is important for making sure that the grout is sealed properly. Ceramic tile is a beautiful addition to any space with its rich quality look. You can now buy ceramic tile that looks like wood for a more appealing presence. One drawback of ceramic tile is that is is hard and cold. You can consider radiant heating underneath the tiles or use rugs to keep the space warmer.

Other Tiles with Vapor Barrier

Almost any type of tile can be used on a concrete floor as long as a vapor barrier is properly installed. Newer tiles come with their own vapor barrier built into the material to skip the step of lining the concrete surface with a vapor barrier. Carpet or vinyl tiles are lined with molded plastic bases to enable breathing room between the tiles and the slab. Modular and interlocking, they can easily be replaced if one becomes damaged. There are many choices of colors and tiles are available that mimic stone or wood.

Epoxy Sealed Concrete

Epoxy sealed concrete is a sure fire way to keep moisture from breaking through the surface. It is durable, dries thick and hard, and is perfect for heavy traffic. Once limited to colors, epoxy sealer is now available in an assortment of colors. There are 3 types of epoxy available, water-based, solvent-based and 100% solid. The nice thing about sealing with epoxy is that you can always add other flooring material on top of it because the concrete is adequately sealed.

Avoid using natural products like wood or cork for basement flooring. Natural products attract moisture. In addition to allowing the spread of mold and mildew, they will also have a shorter life from becoming warped. Using a basement as added living space will increase the value of your home with the extra square footage. Making it a comfortable area can also provide lots of family fun and increased room. Take these options into account before deciding on your basement flooring. Proper sealing and beautiful flooring can work together for a safer environment.