Finished basements are a great place for expanding the living area of your home for entertaining and kids activities, but can also be a source for costly repairs and headache in the event of a flood or other water intrusions. Picking a water resistant floor can make a significant difference in how much work and repairs are needed after water damage.
Hardwood and Wood Laminate Flooring
Hardwood and wood laminate flooring are highly susceptible to significant damage in the event of a flood and almost always have to be removed because of buckling and cupping. Even though laminate flooring is a great option because it is low maintenance, cheaper, and easy to clean: it is not as water resistant. The same issue goes for hardwood flooring. Any water issues should be dealt with before installing hardwood or wood laminate flooring. A homeowner should also consider installing a vapor barrier.
Carpet Installation
Carpeting is a popular flooring choice for a finished basement as it offers a softer, comfortable surface. Yet, any moisture issue should be taken care of before carpet installation takes place. The problem with carpet is that once exposed to flood water, the carpet and padding are very difficult to completely dry out and again are usually removed. Additionally, having carpet with locked-in moisture can cause huge issues with mold.
The Recommended Flooring Choices: Ceramic and Vinyl Tile
Ceramic floors Ceramic tile is a great choice for basements because it can be installed directly over concrete. For basements with moisture or flooding problems, ceramic is unaffected by water or water vapor.
Vinyl floors Vinyl tile is cheaper than ceramic, and will withstand floods. But be sure your floor is even before installation. Solid surface floors are as close to waterproof as you can get and they come in a variety of styles and options for any taste and budget. Tile coupled with area rugs are a great way to combine durability, style and softness while being highly water resistant.
Protecting your Basement from Mold
It can be hard to make the best decision on flooring for your basement. While some choices like hardwood or carpet may offer a different look to the space, they are not always the best option to protect your home from flooding. Flooding and moisture in your basement can cause some serious issues for mold growth. By sticking to ceramic flooring or vinyl tile, you are saving money and protecting your basement from water.
If your basement has been affected by flooding and you are concerned about mold growth, please contact us for a free quote.
