How to Choose the Best Flooring for Your Basement Remodel

Basements are built below ground level, whether as a living or functional extra space. While the basement is generally part of the house, it is not the same as the upper levels of your home. Some building principles do not apply to issues experienced in below-grade levels, such as basement flooring concerns. The basement floor serves as your basement's foundation as a functional space. It protects your basement from direct exposure to external factors. Basement subfloors are commonly installed on a basement floor, providing an extra layer of protection between the ground and the final floor. Choosing your flooring is one of the most crucial decisions for your basement remodel, as it’s a big chunk of your basement, which affects your space's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Assessing your basement's specific needs will help you make the right choice. In choosing among many basement flooring options that best suit your home, what should homeowners consider?

1. Moisture considerations: Waterproof vs. water-resistant flooring.

A healthy below-grade space as supported by the Basement Health Association is an area that is dry and free from musty odors and mold—or anything that may be a food source for mold. 

Fig. 1. Molds found below carpet of basement in Nashville

Even when the weather is dry, your basement flooring can still be exposed to residual moisture in vapor being closest to the ground. The water in the soil below may also seep into the drier areas inside your basement when using porous materials as flooring. The best basement flooring options are waterproof and water-resistant floorings. They may be similar, but they differ in functions. Understanding the differences between waterproof flooring & water resistance is essential in choosing the right floor for your basement.

• Waterproof Flooring

Waterproof flooring is more durable than water-resistant flooring as it offers more protection against water. Waterproof flooring can withstand liquid spills and floods. If water does not get directly to your subfloor, your basement floor is safe from water damage. If you live in an area prone to flooding, waterproof flooring would be your best option. However, this type of flooring is more expensive than water-resistant flooring. While waterproof flooring is the best option for basement flooring, it is more commonly used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens with more contact with water. Waterproof flooring includes luxury vinyl tiles, laminate, and even some hardwoods. These waterproof materials have a variety of styles & colors for you to get a customized look for your basement remodel.

• Water-resistant Flooring

Water-resistant flooring is a cheaper option than waterproof flooring. While it can withstand water more than carpet, natural stone, or regular hardwood flooring, it can not stand prolonged exposure to water. Water-resistant flooring can handle everyday liquid spills if addressed promptly. It requires more maintenance than waterproof flooring as it is more prone to water damage. Liquid spilled can get into the seams and cracks that may eventually cause damage. A wide array of water-resistant laminates and epoxy are available on the market, and you can choose from them to match your basement style. This flooring is an excellent option for living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens.

2. Insulation and warmth: Carpeting and underlayment for cozy spaces.

Due to the basement’s proximity to the ground, choosing a flooring material that offers warmth and insulation is essential. Carpeting is often the least expensive popular choice to add warmth and comfort to your basement as it provides a soft surface underfoot and helps to insulate the space. However, carpets are susceptible to moisture damage and may be breeding grounds for mold and mildew growth if not regularly cleaned. These are some tips to consider in installing a carpet in your basement:

• Choosing a carpet made of synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester is best, as these fibers are more resistant to moisture and mold than natural fibers. Carpet tiles are also available, and they are easier to install and replace if they get wet, stained, or worn down than wall-to-wall carpeting.
  

• You can install a moisture barrier between the floor and carpet as an underlay to prevent moisture from the floor from reaching the carpet.

• Before installing carpet in your basement, it is essential to ensure that moisture and humidity levels are low to maintain your carpet in good condition. Mold and mildew flourish when the relative humidity level is above 80%. The basement should be kept at or below 50% relative humidity, as agreed by the Basement Health Association, to ensure that it remains cozy and safe.

• Homeowners have a wide range of carpet designs to choose from. However, it is best to choose a carpet style that is easy to maintain and clean, as basements are often used for activities that might lead to more spills and stains. Consider choosing carpets with lighter colors, as they can help make a basement feel brighter and more spacious.
  

• Professional carpet installation is recommended if you want the best advice on suitable materials and accurate practices for your specific basement size and situation.

With a wide range of choices for carpet fibers, patterns, and colors available, you can create a cozy retreat in your basement that suits your unique style.

Fig. 2. Carpeting on flooring in a basement remodel by Modern Handymen

3. Durability: Best options for high-traffic or multi-use basements.

One of the challenges of a functional basement is heavy traffic, especially if it is multi-use. It can contribute to early signs of wear and tear on your basement flooring. Choosing flooring options that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use due to foot traffic, pet claws, car tires, oil spills, and salt with minimal maintenance is essential. It is best to look for scratch-resistant, impact-resistant flooring materials that can handle heavy furniture or equipment. Ideal options are durable epoxy coatings, concrete, engineered or luxury vinyl plank, and tiles. Durable flooring materials ensure your basement floor remains in good shape for years. However, durable flooring materials are not impervious to damage, especially in heavy traffic. When choosing basement flooring for high-traffic areas, keep extra materials on hand for potential future repairs and upkeep.

4. Aesthetics: Matching flooring to your home’s overall design.

While the basement has a unique environment, it should reflect your style just like any other part of your home. Consider matching the flooring's style, pattern, color, and texture to your home’s overall design. Installing the right flooring material enhances the visual appeal of your basement and showcases your aesthetic preferences for your home. Whether you opt for a warm carpet, durable tiles, or a glossy epoxy coating, flooring options are available to suit a wide range of design styles and preferences.

Fig. 3. Aesthetic floor tile design of a basement bar

5. Cost comparison: Balancing budget with quality.

Cost is an essential part of planning your basement remodel. Despite budgetary constraints, the long-term value of the basement flooring material is critical in ensuring your return on investments. Choose the basement flooring option that best fits your needs and budget while considering its quality. Invest in a high-quality flooring material to achieve the desired lifespan and performance of your basement flooring. While some high-quality flooring options may have a higher upfront cost, they provide better durability and require less maintenance over time. Choosing basement flooring materials with balanced durability, moisture resistance, and style without frequent repairs and replacement is a cost-effective decision for your basement.

With the right flooring, your basement can become a valuable and versatile extension of your beautiful home. Tailor your flooring choice to the unique needs and functions of your basement. With a wide range of flooring options available in the market, choosing the perfect flooring for your basement can be challenging. Need help deciding? Our experts for basement remodeling in Modern Handymen & Remodel can help you understand your options and the pros and cons of different flooring materials. Schedule a consultation with Modern Handymen & Remodel. Give our team a call at 615-200-8071. We're always happy to talk about how we can help!