Basement Floors

One of the main components of basement remodeling is the flooring.  It is a very important element because not only does it hide the imperfections of the base flooring but it can also uplift the ambience of the room with a few simple design choices.  

Prior to finishing the flooring, it’s important that you first check the quality of the base flooring.  The common weakness to the existing flooring in the basement is water and moisture seepage seeing as the basement is located below the ground.  Any wetness or dampness experienced by the cement floor will be transferred to whatever floor finish you have installed and so it is highly imperative that a treatment be initiated.  This may be done by yourself as there are many waterproofing kits available in stores.  Just to be sure though, you may also hire an expert basement remodeling contractor to ensure that they know what they’re doing and thus, save you time and money.  You also have to be aware of building code requirements regarding floorings and this is why you need to hire professionals.  

Once your basement floors are conditioned, then it’s just a matter of choosing the right kind of flooring to install.  There are many types of flooring differing in shape, material, cost and quality.  Choosing the type of floor is limited only by your design, the purpose of the room and budget.

One of the most common floor coverings is carpeting.  It’s easy to install and available in many colors, thickness and texture.  Carpeting is usually advisable for the flooring of kids’ playrooms (should you convert your basement into a playroom) as it can protect the kids when they accidentally slip and fall.  They’re also very affordable and easy to install which makes carpeting a favorite choice among homeowners.  However, you also have to consider the moisture and humidity level in the basement where you’ll be putting the carpeting.  Carpet fibers tend to absorb moisture and may cause mold infestation which if undetected and left untreated may cause health risks to your house mate's.  

Another option is laminate flooring.  Among the many choices for flooring the basement, this has the highest chance of preventing mold.  Because of its material, laminate flooring is resistant to mold and in general moisture-resistant as well.  You have to remember that even if you’ve pre-treated the flooring, there may be eventual leakages and having laminate flooring is adaptable to these changes.

Hardwood flooring gives you an elegant finish perfect for the home office and extra room type of basement.  They’re also scratch resistant and are very easy and simple to clean.  They’re also impervious to mold so they are a good choice for basement flooring.  However, moisture can eventually warp them and they may cost a little more than carpeting.

Tiles are the best choice if you want to install radiant heat in the basement.  Putting electrical plates under the tiles ensures that whoever steps on the tiles will be immediately warmed.  Not only that, but since the heat prevents the growth of mold and mildew and keeps moisture under control, this is a great deal saver.  What’s more they’re available in a variety of designs, colors and sizes so it’s easier to mix and match with your existing and future plans and designs.