When planning a basement remodel or finishing project, deciding on a flooring option can be difficult. You’ll want to have a basement flooring type that is attractive, durable, comfortable, and matches the intended use for the space.
Luckily, there are plenty of basement flooring options available. To make your job a little easier we’ve taken a look at the most common types and made a list of some of the best basement flooring materials.
To help you get one step closer to that finished basement, here are the 6 best basement flooring options you can find.
What to consider when selecting basement flooring
Aesthetics
Your flooring choice can have a huge impact on the overall look of your basement. The aesthetics of each flooring option are important as it's likely what will win you over when choosing the materials for your basement floor.
When selecting your basement flooring type, you should consider the style of your home as well as the purpose of the space. If you intend on turning your basement into a gym or playroom, then you may not be as picky about aesthetics. Whereas, for a basement bar you may be looking for some more attractive flooring.
For all home improvement projects or new constructions, you will likely have a set budget in place. With there being a massive variety of basement flooring options of all different price points, you must select one that fits your budget.
Luckily, there are flooring options for every budget type. You can go for a more luxurious and pricey option, such as ceramic tile or wood flooring, or a budget-friendly choice, such as carpet squares or rubber.
Durability
Each different basement flooring type will be able to withstand varying levels of wear, pressure, or damage. Therefore, it is important to consider your intentions for the basement before selecting the flooring type.
For example, if you are turning your basement into a kid’s playroom or another high-traffic area, then you may want to opt for more durable flooring such as rubber or sheet vinyl.
Comfort level
When you are choosing your basement flooring you should consider your daily habits and personal preferences.
If your basement is an area where you are going to be on your feet and pacing around, then you will probably be looking for a flooring option with a bit more resilience, softness, and comfort underfoot, such as carpet.
Six best basement flooring options
Sheet vinyl
Sheet vinyl flooring is a budget-friendly synthetic option made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Unlike other types of flooring, which come in planks or tiles, sheet vinyl comes in large rolls, which makes it easy to purchase and pick up. The cost to have sheet vinyl flooring installed can be anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot.
Made of materials such as PVC and then covered in UV-cured urethane, sheet vinyl is made to be one of the most durable flooring options available. These materials also make it water resistant, so it is a great option for water-prone areas of the home, like the basement.
Sheet vinyl also comes in a wide variety of styles and patterns, which means you can likely find something that’s right for you. As for the installation, vinyl flooring can often be challenging to put in, so it is best not to make this a DIY project.
Ceramic tile
Ceramic tiles have become many homeowners' first basement flooring choices for their stylish finish, water resistance, and durability. Ceramic tiles offer you a wide range of colors, styles, and designs for you to choose from. However, they are one of the more expensive flooring options at a total of $11 to $20 per square foot, including installation.
Not only do ceramic tiles provide a smooth and clean look, but you also will not have to worry about water damage due to their glazed surface being waterproof.
While ceramic tile can be installed directly on your concrete slab, this can result in very cold flooring. So, it is best to apply radiant heating or basement subfloor between the concrete floor and the tile. This will help keep your flooring at a more comfortable temperature.
Engineered hardwood
Engineered hardwood flooring is a relatively new flooring option that has the look and feel of real wood but is more moisture-resistant and durable. This flooring type consists of a core of plywood and any variety of hardwood veneer glued on top.
Engineered hardwood comes in the form of glued or interlocking planks that make it easy to install. While engineered hardwood can be installed directly on top of concrete, it is recommended that a subfloor or underlayment is nestled in between.
Due to its higher price tag of $8 to $17 per square foot, including parts and labor, engineered hardwood is most suited to finished basements that are aiming for a high-end look and feel. If you plan on turning your basement into a home bar or another living room, then engineered hardwood could be your best option.
Rubber
While it is common to see rubber flooring in places such as gyms and garages, it can also be a great option for a basement. Due to its aesthetics, it may not be an ideal choice if you’re planning for your basement to be a formal living space, but for a home gym or playroom, it’s the perfect fit.
Rubber tiles or rubber rollouts are very affordable, costing on average $3 per square foot, and can be easily installed by yourself on top of your concrete slab. It also offers the benefits of being durable, waterproof, stain-resistant, and low maintenance.
The main downside of rubber flooring is that your selections are limited. While there are different colors and designs to choose from, you still have far fewer options than other materials.
Carpet
Carpet flooring offers different benefits compared to the other options on this list. While carpeting is one of the more expensive flooring options it does make your basement feel warmer and more comfortable. With carpet, you also have a huge selection of styles and designs.
Unlike other materials, carpet is not water resistant and is prone to moisture problems. A small leak can easily lead to mold or mildew developing in your carpet and your flooring will need to be repaired or replaced.
For carpet flooring, you have two different options: you can either go with wall-to-wall carpeting or carpet tiles. While carpet tiles may not look quite as good, it is far easier to replace a section of carpet tiles than it is for wall-to-wall carpet.
For wall-to-wall basement carpeting, you can expect to pay between $2 and $13 per square foot, depending on the size and type of carpet.
Epoxy
Epoxy is a basement flooring option that has slowly crept its way into the mainstream. Epoxy is a type of synthetic resin that is laid on top of a concrete slab as a form of protection and decoration.
There are many different types and ways to apply epoxy, which can allow homeowners to have a unique design. With epoxy being completely sealed and water resistant, it makes the flooring both easy to maintain and extremely durable.
While epoxy can look fantastic if done well, it does come with its downsides regarding temperature. Epoxy flooring is noticeably colder than other flooring types and it can affect your comfort levels. Epoxy is also a quite expensive flooring option, costing between $3 and $6 per square foot, depending on how many coats are applied.
What basement flooring option is right for you?
The best type of basement flooring is entirely dependent on your personal preferences and requirements. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still looks great, then sheet vinyl might be best for you. Or, if you are aiming for a more high-end look and are willing to spend a little extra, you may opt for ceramic tile or engineered hardwood.
No matter what your intentions are for your basement space, you must consider all of your options and what your main requirements are to find the best fit.