What Are The Best Flooring Materials For A Basement?

If you are considering a renovation in your basement, the type of flooring you will choose is likely at the top of your list of items to consider. Most basements often have a cold, cement subfloor, so you may want to select a basement flooring option that will provide some insulation value. 

Also, basements are often known for their damp environment. So, it may be necessary to select a basement flooring option that is waterproof and resistant to the growth of mold and mildew. 

The type of floor you select may also depend on the purpose that the space in your basement will serve, what the heat source of the space will be, how much dirt and debris will be tracked around the floor, and the type of furniture or equipment that will be placed on the floor. 

Here are 6 types of basement flooring to consider when you find yourself wondering what the best flooring materials are for a basement. There are surprisingly a number of options from which you may choose, all of which are available at Greatmats!

1. Rubber

If you are looking for basement flooring, a rolled rubber floor may be an excellent option. Rubber flooring rolls are easy to install over a concrete with either glue or double faced tape and are available in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Once the flooring roll is placed and secured, it requires little maintenance, with a sweeping, vacuuming, or damp mop cleaning process, as needed. Interlocking rubber tiles are also a suitable option and easy to install. Rubber flooring is stain, mold, and mildew resistant – making it an ideal flooring option for an environment where moisture may be present. 

Rubber is water resistant and provides traction when wet. It will not absorb water or other liquids, and it is extremely durable and versatile. Be sure to keep in mind, however, that if your rubber flooring is flat on the bottom, it could trap water that comes up through the concrete. If your basement is prone to such a thing, it would be a good idea to periodically check under the rubber flooring for moisture. If you find water, lift the floor, allow it to dry, and relay it. 

2. Foam

Foam tiles are also an excellent basement flooring option. They are more cost effective than standard wood flooring or tile options, and they are also more suitable for moisture. Foam tiles push into place like pieces of a puzzle, have a tight fit, and they are available in many design finish options and thicknesses. 

They offer the best cushion of any waterproof flooring material on the market, and they’re fast and easy to install. The potential uses for foam tiles are limitless, with basements being a perfect candidate. Transform the look and feel of your room in no time, while providing a safe and comfortable option. 

In damp areas where water may become trapped under the tiles, simply remove the tiles if needed and follow the same procedure as the flat-bottomed rubber above. The major benefit of foam over rubber in this scenario is that foam is much lighter weight and easier to move around if necessary.

3. Vinyl

If you want to combine beauty with durability, a vinyl plank or vinyl tile option is ideal for you. Surface water and liquid spills will not affect the flooring like it would with a traditional wood or laminate floor. So, you can enjoy the look of hardwood and durability of laminate. Greatmats features numerous attractive and low maintenance options that are made from recycled materials and are designed to kill bacteria, mold, and mildew. This flooring is available in wood grain, slate, and ceramic finishes, and is suitable for any room or space in the basement that you want to have a rich and upgraded feel. 

4. Cork

Although not all laminate flooring options are waterproof, cork laminate flooring features water resistant technology. This flooring option is appealing to some, as it has a softer, more shock absorbent surface than other options, preventing sore legs, feet, joints, and back. It is also very affordable and durable. If taking care of the environment is important to you, this basement flooring option will appeal to you, as it is made using sustainable methods. There are several colors and designs available, and it will provide excellent thermal insulating properties in your basement. 

5. Carpet on Foam Base

Not much beats the look and feel of plush carpet when your feet hit the floor, but traditional carpet is not an ideal basement flooring option. That’s where carpet tile squares come in! They are very popular for basements, as they can quickly and easily be removed and reinstalled, and they can be installed directly over concrete or tile. 

There are numerous sizes, colors, and models available, but one of the best for a basement bedroom would be the Royal Interlocking Carpet Tile on a foam base. These carpet squares are easy to install and can be custom cut to fit any space. They provide an anti-fatigue and insulative value similar to traditional carpet, and they are waterproof and odor proof. They can simply be vacuumed for easy clean up, and since they will not absorb water, should they become wet, they can be stood on end and dried out. Another option is our snap together raised tile with carpet top which also have an easy installation.

6. Raised Plastic Base Tiles

If you need to select a durable basement flooring option that has an attractive look but allows for air circulation beneath it, a raised plastic tile is an excellent choice. These tiles are designed to prevent mildew and mold as they will not trap moisture. This natural circulation promotes a dry, healthy environment. The high quality, 3mm thick vinyl laminate top surface provides a beautiful finish available in a variety of designer textures. The top features a UV protective coating that will prevent scratches and divots. This type of raised tile is easy to install, will not need refinishing or maintenance, and will provide years of beauty in your basement. 

Greatmats has the best basement flooring

Greatmats has numerous basement flooring options available, with friendly and knowledgeable designers and experts that can help you decide which is the best for your space.