The Best Type of Flooring for Basements

Finishing the basement is one of the best ways to add living space and value to your home. Cozy and comfortable, a finished basement quickly becomes the center of the home where everyone gathers to watch movies, catch a sports game, or hang out. Finishing a basement has many steps, but an important one is the flooring. Flooring retailers have hundreds of different styles, colors, and materials for flooring, so it’s hard to choose. The best type of flooring for basements runs the gamut, but here are a few suggestions.

Vinyl Plank Flooring

One of the newer entries into the market is vinyl plank flooring. It’s made to look like hardwood, and it comes in a lot of designs. It can look like traditional hardwood, distressed barnwood, and everything in between. Installation is a snap, literally. It’s made with tongue-and-groove sides that lock together, and the underside is non-slip rubber. If water ever gets in the basement, it’s easy to dry or remove.

Carpeting

Plush, soft carpeting is still a great choice and one of the best types of flooring for basements. A thick pad and durable, stain-resistant carpet will last for decades and give the room a cozy feel. It feels good under the feet and adds warmth, which is good since basements are usually chilly. The main drawback of carpet is if it gets wet, you almost have to get rid of it and start over. Nothing will ruin the basement like a moldy smell.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is good for people with a flair for design. There’s a lot of different options with tile, and a designer can create unique patterns and looks. Tile is always durable and easy to clean, but it can be cold underfoot. Laying tile is a long process that will take several days, and it’s easy to screw up, so it’s better to leave this one to the professionals.

Vinyl Sheeting

Vinyl sheeting is the most cost-effective options. Sheeting comes in massive rolls and costs as little as a dollar per square foot. You simply need a layer of glue on the floor before you roll out the on top. Different finishes that look like cobblestone, bricks, or hardwood are available, depending on the overall design.