Choosing the right basement flooring is essential for durability, moisture resistance, and style. With so many options available, finding the best fit can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll explore the top basement flooring choices to help you create a functional and attractive space that stands the test of time!
What Are Your Basement Flooring Options?
The great thing about basements are they can be transformed into really cool spaces. You don’t have to use your basement for storage only. Instead, you can create a hangout spot that your friends and family will love. All you need is comfy furnishings, a flat screen TV, and a sleek floor to make your basement the place to be. When you have concrete as a subloor, as most basements do, your choices can be different than what you would use on a wooden subfloor. Also, installation on cement will be different. Let's see if we can help you to better understand which material might be best for your basement. Here are 4 of the best bets for basement flooring in your home:
Ceramic Tile Flooring in Your Basement
Tile works really well in basements because it can stand against both the test of time and moisture. Tiling a basement usually involves the same process as tiling any other room in your home. You can usually put the ceramic tile directly over the concrete subfloor in your basement. This type of flooring isn’t expensive and it’ll look really cool in your basement. What is expensive is the cost of installation of ceramic tiles, which can easily be 4-5 times the cost of the tiles. If you can install ceramic tile yourself this can be a great budget option, although tool rentals, adhesives and grout will add to your bill.
Vinyl Plank Flooring is a Great Look
If you’re looking for the most waterproof flooring for your basement, then vinyl plank flooring is for you. This flooring is installed in strips that interlock together. It can give your basement a sleek look and it certainly won’t break the bank. Vinyl planks and tiles are available in many colors, species, and styles, giving you the opportunity to design your basement floors in a way that hangs a smile on your face. It is definitely one of the best choices for basement flooring. The installation process is fairly easy. If you are the do-it-yourself kind of homeowner, then you won’t have a problem doing the installation process. We do recommend that you ask the manufacturer for specific installation instructions in case they have any tips that can help. Be sure to use a moisture barrier when installing vinyl plank in your basement, as water can seep through your slab into your living space.
At ReallyCheapFloors.com all of our LVP flooring is made in the USA. Even more importantly we typically offer our first quality 12 and 20 mil products for around half the prices of the big box stores. Why shouldn't you save money on your next flooring purchase?
Engineered Hardwood in Your Basement
When we are considering all of our basement flooring options we need to decide what our expectations for those areas will be. Is our basement a place to which we may banish the kids when needed? If so, we need materials made for durability and ease of maintenance. For some homeowners their basement is an extension of their living space. In this scenario the option of wood flooring is a more attractive choice. While wood in a basement might seem a bit odd, the beauty of a natural product combined with its durability, resistance to moisture, and ease of installation make it a top choice for materials to be used in basements. Wood flooring will also add more value to your home, compared to vinyl or tile.
At ReallyCheapFloors.com we offer literally hundreds of engineered wood selections for less than $2 per square foot.
Paint Your Concrete for a Plethora of Colors
This is probably the cheapest flooring option for a basement because the materials are cheap and the labor is an easy DIY project.. It doesn’t sound like the most glamorous when you first consider it, but you can spruce it up to add some style. . To add style and comfort, you can place some area rugs throughout the space. Painting your concrete flooring is a great way to create an Urban design for your basement.
Laminate Floors are a Great Way to Go
For those that love hardwood flooring without paying the price of hardwood, we’d recommend laminate flooring. You can get that sleek hardwood look without the same high dollar price tag. This flooring can look really good in a basement space. It isn’t the most water resistant, so you should definitely consider that aspect before buying. You can place a foam underlayment below the laminate flooring to help with moisture control. It is pretty inexpensive and it can save you a lot of money in the long run. For the installation process, you won’t have to hire a contractor if you don’t want to. Laminate flooring is easy to install yourself as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Your friends and family will love the hardwood floor look in your basement. One of the few cons of carpet in the basement is the lack of ability to control moisture. If this is an issue in your basement consider a self-bailing dehumidifier to remove excessive water from the air.
Why Not Consider Carpet to Spruce up Your Basement?
How about carpet for your basement floor?This fuzzy material has some bennies that other floors simply cannot match. Whether you add a layer of padding for extra comfort or not, this material will offer your basement a barrier to the cold concrete underneath as well as a sound-deadener that might be necessary at times. Decorating around carpet is simple, as the number of available colors is limitless. For sheer comfort, carpeting has a feel that tile and vinyl simply cannot match.
When choosing a carpet be sure to take into consideration the different materials and styles available. Berber carpets are frequently made with stain-proof polypropylene, while the soft saxonies and friezes may feature nylon or PET polyester. Choose nylon carpet for durability, or polyester for value.
Need a Place to Save Money On Your Basement Floor Purchase?
Are you looking for an affordable place to buy these flooring alternatives? At ReallyCheapFloors.com, we offer some of the best bets for basement flooring with an affordable price tag. Luxury vinyl planks or tiles and hardwood are where we can help. We’d love to answer any questions you have. Check out our laminate flooring options to find one that fits your home improvement project.
