Basements are endless possibilities and can be used for pretty much anything. They are great for bonus rooms, game rooms, laundry and storage space, and additional living areas. Whether you are looking to complete an unfinished basement or remodel your already-finished basement, there are certain aspects to keep in mind before buying new floors.
Below Grade
The word grade means ground-level in construction terms, and below-grade means any area underneath the base of the home, like the basement. Because of this factor, basements can be prone to several different issues. When researching potential new basement floors, be sure it is clearly labeled as below-grade material.
Moisture
Living in the South means extra humidity in the hotter months. Moisture and humid air tend to sink to the lowest parts of the house. Your new basement floor will need to withstand these moisture levels and prevent any mold build-up. Waterproof vinyl flooring is generally a great option due to its nearly seamless edges. Water will have a tough time creeping into the subfloor.
Level
Sometimes slightly unlevel floors go unnoticed by homeowners, but this can be a real problem. If you install new floors on the unlevel subfloors, your flooring will eventually come loose in those particular spots. More often than not, your installers will be able to tell if your floor is unlevel right away. They should be able to find effective solutions for you and your basement.
Usage
As mentioned before, the basement can be used for various different purposes. If you plan to use it as a game room, you will want a sturdy, durable floor that is pretty scratch-resistant and easy to clean. If you are using it for storage, consider choosing a less flashy style, like concrete or tile. It is simply a matter of personal preference and budget.
If you need any advice on choosing the right floors for your basement, come to Flack’s Flooring. We will show you around our showroom and select the below-grade options best suited for your lifestyle.