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Six Best Flooring Options for Concrete Basements

Six Best Flooring Options

Most basements have a sturdy, flat, and long-lasting poured concrete floor. However, if you’re planning a basement renovation or remodeling project, then you’ll most likely want to improve the flooring to make the new living space durable, appealing, and simpler to keep clean.

The good news is that you have a variety of basement flooring alternatives to choose from. However, keep in mind that basement conditions differ from those found upstairs. These distinctions influence your basement remodeling ideas, and how your project might go.

 

Assess the State of Your Concrete Floor First


Whatever
basement flooring you pick, make sure first to repair any issues with the existing concrete floor. 

  • Is the surface of the concrete rough or uneven in any places? 
  • Are there any basement floor cracks?
  • Are the cracks wide enough to allow a dime through? 
  • Is there a part of the floor that has broken and moved up or down? 
  • Is there water in the basement when it rains? 

An experienced basement flooring contractor should assess and rectify any damage before installing new basement flooring.

 

Option 1: Paint 

The least costly finished floor option is also the easiest to install yourself.
If money is a consideration and you only intend to use your basement area as a workshop or gym room, then paint may be the best option.

The crucial thing here is to use concrete floor paint and carefully follow the container’s instructions for surface prep, application, and drying time.

Option 2: Epoxy Flooring

This two-part coating is applied similarly to paint, but it produces a thicker layer that is generally smoother, more durable, and simpler to clean. Most epoxy procedures allow you to apply plastic flakes or fine sand to the surface immediately after application.

The sand provides texture, while the flakes bring color and texture. This flooring treatment, like paint, may be a fantastic alternative for workrooms and home gyms. 

 

Option 3: Tile Flooring

Installing a tile floor in your basement allows you to experiment with design while rapidly covering up old concrete flooring.
Tile is available in a wide range of sizes, designs, and prices. A tile floor may be surprisingly economical and can often be a better option due to the frequently damp condition of basements. 

Whatever tile you pick, be sure your concrete floor is in good shape. If there are any cracks or rough surfaces, these must be corrected before a contractor can put tiles on. And if you happen to live in a colder area, install a basement subfloor before laying your tiles if you want a warm underfoot tile floor.

 

Option 4: Vinyl Plank or Tiles

This basement flooring solution provides excellent value for money. Because of the interlocking joints, vinyl tile and vinyl plank flooring are simple to install. Furthermore, these materials are available in a wide range of styles.

This flooring may be created to seem like many wood species or ceramic tiles. The majority of varieties may be laid on concrete or a subfloor. 

Installing a vinyl tile or vinyl plank floor is less difficult than installing sheet vinyl, and any damage to the floor may be readily rectified by simply replacing one or two tiles.


Option 5: Sheet Vinyl

Purchasing a large vinyl roll allows you to install a new floor for a meager cost. Its durability, ease of cleaning, and availability in an extensive range of designs and patterns provide homeowners with an array of options.

But, before you take this route, consider the durability, fit and finish or installing a floor through a large vinyl roll. 

Another restriction of sheet vinyl is that roughness or imperfections in the basement’s concrete floor are likely to show through in the vinyl floor. 

Sheet vinyl should then always be laid over a subfloor for the best appearance and better thermal properties.


Option 6: Engineered Wood Flooring

There’s good news if you want a high-end completed basement area with the look and feel of natural wood flooring. While solid wood flooring cannot be used in basements, several types of engineered wood flooring can.

This type of flooring contains a thin layer of actual wood (several different species are available) attached to other wood plies or composite board, similar to plywood. Basement-suitable engineered wood flooring is made in planks with interlocking edges and has a durable, factory-applied finish.

Final Thoughts

As with any basement remodeling ideas, it’s essential to remember that the best flooring for basements is one that lets the flooring and decor work together. 

It’s also important to remember that most polished concrete basement floors require special subflooring that will not get moldy or deteriorate when exposed to moisture.

Different options 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. 

Each home will have individual needs that depend on your overall vision for this unique and intimate space of your house.
The A2Z team prides itself on an exceptional track record that is quality-oriented. We leverage our experience and know-how to provide our partners with outstanding fit, finish, and lasting durability.

Contact us to learn more about how A2Z Builders can help provide you with an A2Z basement remodeling service that will transform this space. 

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