What are the cheapest flooring options for a basement?
Top 5 Budget Basement Floors: Foam, Rubber & Carpet Tiles & Rolls
- Play Mats Foam Puzzle Tile 4 Pack. Soften and liven up any hard basement floor with Play Mats Foam Puzzle Tile 4 Pack. ...
- Rolled Rubber 1/8 Inch Black Pacific. 1/8 Inch Black Pacific Rubber Rolls are yet another economical option for a basement floor. ...
- Style Smart 18 x 18 Inch Carpet Tile. ...
- Foam Tiles Wood Grain. ...
What flooring material is right for my basement?
The best basement flooring types are tile, laminate or engineered hardwood. These materials handle higher moisture better than hardwood and can be installed on a concrete subfloor. The best option for this room is concrete. Installing garage floor coatings or garage tiles helps provide a non-slip surface that is easy to clean.
What flooring should I use in my basement?
Top 5 Best Flooring for Basements
- Laminated Hardwood. Source: fratellipellizzari.it Laminated hardwood is a wise choice of flooring for the basement. ...
- Ceramic Tiles. Source: finishedbasementsplus.com Ceramic Tiles are one of the top-rated floorings for basements. ...
- Carpet Flooring. ...
- Rubber Flooring. ...
- Epoxy Flooring. ...
What is the best floor covering for a basement?
What Flooring Is Best For A Basement?
- Vinyl Flooring. ...
- Engineered Wood Flooring. ...
- Tile Flooring (Ceramic or Porcelain) Ceramic or Porcelain tiles make an unquestionably durable basement flooring. ...
- Concrete Flooring. ...
- Epoxy Flooring. ...
- Rubber Flooring. ...
- Laminate Flooring. ...
What flooring is best for basement on concrete?
vinylAside from luxury vinyl, some of the best basement flooring options are sheet vinyl, laminate, carpeting, and prefinished hardwood.
What is the most durable flooring for a basement?
5 of the Most Durable Basement Flooring OptionsLuxury vinyl tile. Luxury vinyl tile, also known as LVT, comes in planks or squares. ... Marmoleum. We love recommending Marmoleum for basements. ... Ceramic or porcelain tile. Tile can be a great option for basement floors. ... Carpet. ... Concrete.
What is better for basement flooring laminate or vinyl?
When Is Vinyl the Better Choice? Vinyl makes up in durability for what it lacks in authentic appearance. Because of its superior moisture resistance, vinyl plank flooring can be installed where laminates can't, including basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms and mudrooms.
What do you put under flooring in basement?
Rigid foam is an excellent basement subfloor option because it provides a thermal break between concrete and flooring.Finish flooring.Plywood screwed down through the layer below.Rigid foam insulation—1 1/2-inch thick.Concrete basement floor.
Is vinyl plank flooring cold in basement?
Vinyl feels warm underfoot, and it cushions the bottoms of your feet better than ceramic tile too. Of course, vinyl placed on concrete won't be as warm as it would be over a wood subfloor, but its complete water resistance outweighs this negative. Plus, it's still warmer than ceramic tiles and especially bare cement.
What do you put under vinyl flooring in a basement?
Vinyl floors under 4mm should be installed right over the subfloor. If you have any areas on a concrete subfloor with moisture concerns, it is recommended to use a vapor barrier underlayment that will not add any cushion to the planks.
Can you put vinyl flooring directly on concrete?
As you don't have to install underlay for Vinyl Flooring or LVT, this can go directly onto the concrete subfloor. However, allow 24 hours for your flooring to acclimatise by leaving it out of its packaging. When it's ready, unroll your vinyl flooring and cut to size after measuring your room.
What is the disadvantage of vinyl flooring?
The disadvantages of vinyl floors Can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) Shorter lifespan than wood floors. No impact, or negative impact, on home resale value. Difficult to remove, especially if adhesive is used during installation.
Is vinyl plank or laminate better?
Vinyl has a longer lifespan and better overall durability than laminate. Don't forget to factor in your budget, however. Vinyl flooring may be more expensive than laminate flooring, especially if you choose luxury vinyl flooring.
Should I do a subfloor in my basement?
First, any good basement subfloor adds insulation so your feet stay warmer in winter. Second, good subfloors provide protection of the finished flooring from lwater or water vapor moving up through the concrete, discouraging rot and mold forming underneath.
Do I need a vapor barrier in my basement floor?
All for lack of an affordable, easy-to-install basement floor vapor barrier. Climate plays a part: In dry climates, contractors often skip the vapor barrier. But in average to humid climates, and anywhere ground water is abundant, an impermeable vapor barrier is essential.
Is rubber flooring good for basements?
Rubber Basement Flooring Additionally, rubber is one of the best floors for basements that flood. It's water resistant and easy to clean and replace. Features of Rubber Flooring for Basements: Durable and shock absorbent: Perfect basement flooring for home gyms.
Can you use sand on epoxy flooring?
With most epoxy treatments, it’s possible to broadcast plastic flakes or fine sand over the surface right after application. The sand adds texture, while the flakes add both texture and color. Like paint, this flooring treatment can be a good choice for workrooms and home gyms.
Is sheet vinyl good for basement walls?
Sheet vinyl has other advantages, too: It’s durable, easy to clean, and available in a wide variety of styles and patterns, giving you plenty of choices. But before you go for this option, think about how you’ll maneuver that big roll into the basement, cut it to size, and fit it accurately between walls.
Do basements have concrete floors?
Most basements have a poured concrete floor that’s solid, flat, and durable. But if you’re planning a basement remodeling (aka basement finishing) project, you’ll probably want a flooring upgrade to make the new living space more comfortable, more attractive, and easier to keep clean. The good news here is that you’ve got plenty ...
Do basement floors need subflooring?
Basements require special subflooring that will not get moldy or deteriorate when exposed to moisture. Different brands of subfloor tiles are available that include a drainage space for any moisture on the concrete, rigid foam insulation, and a composite surface that serves as the substrate for finished flooring.
Can you put subfloor over concrete?
If your remodeled basement will be used as a family room, home theatre, or kid’s playroom, you may want to have a subfloor installed over the concrete. A properly installed subfloor will create a flat, insulated substrate for the finished floor of your choice, ensuring more warmth underfoot.
Can you put interlocking rubber tiles on concrete?
It’s also a great choice for a playroom or laundry room–mainly because it’s durable, waterproof, stain resistant, and easy to keep clean. Interlocking rubber tiles are easy for homeowners to install, they can go down directly over concrete or over a subfloor. The same goes for rubber sheet flooring.
Is basement flooring DIY friendly?
Better yet: Most basement flooring materials are DIY-friendly. But it’s important to remember that conditions in the basement are different than they are upstairs. These differences affect not only your flooring choices but also how your flooring is installed.
What type of flooring is best for a basement?
The best type of flooring for basements is vinyl. Vinyl flooring can come in the form of vinyl plank and vinyl tile, giving it the ability to look nearly identical to hardwood and stone products with the added benefit of being waterproof. Vinyl flooring is made of PVC making it durable and waterproof. An additional benefit of vinyl base ment ...
Is a basement humid?
Not only is your basement very humid, it is also extremely prone to water events such as flooding and leaking. When such an event occurs, you do not want to have to throw away all of your flooring, that would be a big time and monetary expense.
Is wood flooring good for a basement?
When it comes to basement flooring and basements in general, the less wood the better. Basements are a very humid and water prone environment where wood will not hold up well. Wood based flooring when placed in a basement will begin to warp and twist. Even without flooding, your basement foundation will have moisture leaking through which will form condensation underneath the flooring causing damage to the wood. Installing and replacing hardwood flooring can also be very costly and time consuming for homeowners as well.
Is ceramic tile good for basement floors?
Ceramic Tile for Basement Floors. Ceramic tile is a viable option for basement flooring, although it has some drawbacks. When glazed, water cannot penetrate the tile making it a good choice for water resistance and stain resistance. Ceramic tile also comes in a large variety of sizes, shapes and colors to go along with any design.
Can you put vinyl planks on subfloors?
Vinyl plank can be installed directly on your sub floor making installation much quicker and easier. One of the common misconceptions of vinyl flooring is that it has a look and feel similar to linoleum. Over the past few years the design and construction of vinyl flooring has improved drastically.
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Vinyl flooring is made of PVC making it durable and waterproof. An additional benefit of vinyl basement flooring is the durability, since it is made of inorganic materials unlike wood, this makes it great for high traffic areas!
What is the best flooring for a basement?
Engineered Vinyl Planks or Vinyl Tiles. Engineered vinyl planks/tiles (also known as luxury vinyl plank, EVP, or LVP) are an excellent option for many basements, particularly due to the fact that this type of flooring is waterproof. It also looks quite decent.
What is the best way to make a basement feel warm?
Carpet is soft, warm, and the best and safest option for the basement steps. Carpet can make your basement feel much warmer, more insulated, and homier. It absorbs sound (instead of reflecting it) and is thus a good option for home theaters.
Why is carpet not good for basement?
Because basements are usually cold and damp, flooring options like carpet and hardwood may not be such a good idea due to health considerations, as they may rot and/or promote the growth of mold and mildew.
What to do if your basement is flooded?
If your basement gets flooded, you can simply pick up the pieces, allow them (and the sub-floor) to dry, and piece the tiles back together. Rubber tiles are thicker and more forgiving to sub-floors that may not be even or level. Soft EVA foam tiles (the ones used for babies’ play areas) are another cheaper option.
What is the best way to clean concrete floors?
Here is how you clean concrete floors. Sheet Vinyl . Sheet vinyl is among the cheapest of the flooring options (second only to carpeting). It is resilient and waterproof, and it creates an impervious surface that is practically seamless, which can help in regions which are more damp.
Can hydrostatic pressure cause water to get trapped in vinyl planks?
Even though the engineered vinyl planks are waterproof, hydrostatic pressure may push water from the ground up, water which may then become trapped between the engineered vinyl plank and the concrete foundation. This may happen a few times during the year (like when snow is melting or after a hurricane).
Is a basement floor always below ground level?
Basements are usually built on a slab of concrete, are almost always below ground level, and are oftentimes uneven. They may also be prone to a higher degree of dampness and/or flooding. These factors limit your choices in terms of what type of flooring you can use for your basement.
Basement Flooring Basics
When it comes to basement flooring, there are a few things you should keep in mind no matter where you live.
Important Things to Think About When Exploring Basement Flooring Ideas
In addition to the factors above, there are a few more things to consider when you’re parsing through basement flooring ideas—and they tend to vary by environment and home type.
The Best Basement Flooring: 11 Great Options
As it turns out, there are a lot of contenders for the best flooring for basements crown!
Best Flooring for Basements: The FAQs
Now that we’ve covered a few different types of the best flooring for basements, let’s cover some frequently asked questions about basement flooring ideas in general.
Conclusion: What Is the Best Flooring for Basements?
Whew! We made it! So after all that, can we definitively say which product is the best flooring for basements? Well…
What type of flooring is best for a concrete slab?
6. Laminate Flooring. Some types of laminate flooring are constructed to be installed below-grade and directly on top of a concrete slab, but most will require a moisture-resistant underlayment. The Defiant Collection is highly water-resistant and durable enough for kids and pets.
What is luxury vinyl plank flooring?
Luxury vinyl plank flooring, like that from the Vigorous Collection , can elevate any space with its elegant range of natural wood visuals. The stone plastic composite (SPC) vinyl planks are made using a waterproof core to combat moisture attacking from below. Rated for residential and light commercial use, this robust collection comes with a 20-mil wearlayer that is scratch-resistant and protects against daily wear. Outfitted with a pre-attached foam underpad, the Vesdura planks offer comfort underfoot.
What is epoxy flooring?
Epoxy. Epoxy is a liquid coating that is a sealer and flooring design all in one. It is ideal for work spaces like garages or woodworking shops, or perhaps you want to create a bright, yet durable, play space for kids.
What color is slate tile?
It is highly resistant to damage, but it must be installed over a solid and level subfloor; otherwise, it is subject to cracking. Slate is primarily found in a grey color that can fluctuate from light to dark, but it can also contain other colors like red and green. During the installation process, slate can be easily damaged. Consider hiring a pro to install your slate flooring. Update your basement with slate tile to create a clean, sleek look that is easily maintained and will last decades.
What is carpet tile?
Carpet tiles are versatile when it comes to designing a space since they come in a wide variety of styles, colors, patterns, and textures. Carpet tiles can give your feet relief and can be cut to fit any space.
Is underlayment good for basement flooring?
No matter which type of flooring you decide to install in a basement, it’s important to lay down underlayment that acts as a moisture barrier. Even if the flooring product you choose is waterproof or water resistant, the underlayment provides more peace of mind and protection.
Is tile flooring warm?
As a hard surface product, tile does not absorb sound and is not warm. From stone to wood, solid colors to patterns, the tile design possibilities of ceramic and porcelain are endless. Ceramic tile is one of the most durable flooring options available. It has beautiful wood-grain patterns, and is an easy choice for below-grade flooring.
Concrete for Basement Flooring
One popular option is to leave the concrete subfloor as your basement flooring. This is a very economical option and does not require much installation or materials. You can also use an epoxy floor coating which comes in several colors. The major drawback to this option is that concrete flooring is essentially cold and hard.
Hardwood Flooring in a Basement - Yes You Can!
Hardwood flooring is beyond gorgeous and extremely popular for home interiors, but solid hardwood will not be a good fit in basements. Moisture is more prevalent in basements, which can cause warping, buckling, and permanent damage to the pristine planks.
Waterproof Hardwood Flooring - It Does Exist
With advancements in technology, you can now have the gorgeous aesthetic of hardwood flooring while also reaping the benefits of waterproof properties. Waterproof hardwood flooring utilizes a waterproof core with a slice of real hardwood on top to give you waterproof performance without compromising on the style and charm of hardwood.
Tile Flooring in a Basement
Installing tile flooring in your basement is a smart choice as it is waterproof and can be installed over concrete. With a variety of styles, from wood-look to ceramic, you can create the look and feel you desire. However, the installation can be labor-intensive and costly as it is best handled by professionals.
Luxury Vinyl Basement Flooring Options
When it comes to the best flooring for basements, luxury vinyl plank or tile presents a lot of advantages that make it perfect for this area of the home. Waterproof LVT or LVP can stand up to moisture, spills, and messes in your basement without harm.
Sheet Vinyl Flooring - Modern Options
Sheet vinyl flooring is very functional and practical in a basement. It is economical and comes in a variety of styles and colors to suit your unique style. Whether you want to create a wood-look or a fun tile pattern, sheet vinyl is extremely versatile in design, and it is easy to wipe up spills and messes.
Carpet Options for your Basement
Carpet is a budget-friendly option that provides warmth and comfort underfoot. Unfortunately, it is not waterproof or water-resistant, and if your basement has any moisture, carpet can trap the moisture and foster mold and mildew. For this reason, it is not recommended to use carpet in the basement if you have any level of moisture present.
What is the best floor for a basement?
Rubber Flooring. This is a fancy, durable, moisture-proof and informal floor that makes good sense for basements, especially utility or play areas. Rubber flooring is unaffected by moisture, either liquid or vapor.
What are the hazards of basement flooring?
Condensation and water vapor are moisture-related hazards unique to basements, and they affect the kind of flooring that makes sense downstairs. Check out these five top basement flooring options and learn how to protect yours from moisture damage and mold growth.
Why does my basement smell musty?
Summertime mustiness is one reason why. When humid summer air enters the carpet pile and come close to the concrete underneath, that air can cool to the dew point, releasing fine droplets of water within the carpet or underlay. That’s why finished basements smell musty.
Is vinyl flooring flat or square?
Tiles are square and planks are rectangular. Third, vinyl flooring of this kind is flexible enough that it doesn’t need a super-flat surface like laminates do. It can easily lay over a fair amount of undulations in a concrete floor.
Can you put ceramic tile on concrete?
First, never install hard-surface tiles such as ceramics and porcelain directly on concrete. Tiles should be installed on top of an uncoupling membrane to boost reliability. Sure, concrete is usually stable. But it can expand and contract at different rates than the tiles, causing tile cracks over time.
Can you put carpet on a subfloor?
Always install basement carpet on top of a vapor-impervious subfloor. This will raise the temperature of the floor in winter, make your carpet more pleasant to walk on, and most importantly prevent humid air from cozying up to the concrete and triggering mold growth.
Is VPF better than VTF?
Vinyl plank flooring (VPF) and vinyl tile flooring (VTF) are similar to click laminate flooring, but they’re better in three ways. First, VPF and VTF are impervious to liquid and vapor moisture. This matters because even seemingly dry basements can have enough moisture vapor migration to trigger mold growth.
What type of flooring is best for moisture prone rooms?
Consider these types of flooring for moisture-prone rooms: 1. Vinyl. Easy to clean and easy on the wallet, vinyl flooring is available in sheet or tile form and comes in a wide range of colors. Made from petroleum, vinyl resists water, mold and mildew.
What type of flooring is best for a bathroom?
Ceramic or stone tile, vinyl and concrete are perfect flooring options for bathrooms, kitchens, basements and other rooms where water is present. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Martha K. of League City, Texas)
What is stone tile made of?
Stone tile. Made from natural stones, such as marble and granite, stone tile offers an array of colors and textures. Stone requires periodic sealing and comes in four absorption levels: non-vitreous, semi-vitreous, vitreous and impervious. Non-vitreous, which has the highest absorption level, isn’t suitable for rooms where water or moisture occurs.
Is concrete good for a bathroom?
A staple for basements and garages, concrete is versatile enough for use in the bathroom or kitchen. Concrete stamping and stains add character to concrete, making it versatile enough to match any decor. Concrete requires little maintenance and is affordable for most budgets.
Is vinyl the same as linoleum?
Note: While many people use vinyl and linoleum interchangeably, the two are similar but not identical. Manufacturers make linoleum from linseed oil and other natural materials so it’s susceptible to water damage if not sealed correctly.
Is ceramic tile waterproof?
Ceramic tile. Waterproof and available in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes and styles, ceramic tile flooring is another popular option. Tinted grout adds decorative twist to the tile. When sealed, ceramic tile is easy to clean and scratch-resistant. 3.
