Below-grade flooring is at risk of water vapor damage and even mild flooding. Due to its proximity to the ground, basement flooring can leach residual moisture in the form of vapor, even when the weather is dry. Always take this into account when choosing flooring for your basement. For easy maintenance, choose waterproof flooring for your basement.
Here are some of the best flooring options for your basement. With these flooring choices, you’ll never lose your basement flooring investment again due to water damage.
Concrete with epoxy floor coating
Concrete is one of the best flooring choices for basements that are being used as a workshop or recreation area. Not only is it affordable, it also provides the necessary durability that goes hand-in-hand with maintaining a basement floor. Applying a few coats of epoxy to the concrete will help lock out moisture and make the flooring waterproof. Epoxy paint is easy to apply and totally waterproof. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring mimics the look of wood. They provide a more stable substrate while delivering the look and feel of solid wood floor. The top veneer is a layer of tough film covered with plastic resin. It is much more water-resistant than wood flooring.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles, when properly installed and maintained, will last for a very long time. This type of flooring can easily be installed over a concrete slab. They are also easy to clean, durable and resistant to moisture. Plus, they are available in different styles and virtually every color imaginable.
Ceramic tiles can be slippery when wet. For basement installation, we recommend that you choose glazed ceramic tiles with anti-slip finish.
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring is maintenance-free, moisture-proof and durable. It can easily be installed over any clean, dry surface, making it one of the best choices for do-it-yourselfers.
Vinyl flooring requires very little maintenance and is moisture-resistant. It also provides a realistic wood, stone and tile visuals for your basement. You can transform your drab basement into a fun recreational area over the weekend.