When you finish a basement, the possibilities are endless. It can become an in-law suite, playroom, fitness area, guest bedroom, laundry room, or a sanctuary for your hobbies. It can also make the space more temperate and cleaner for organized storage. 

Waterproofing, insulation, and drywall are important parts of a basement finishing project. But the most glaring characteristic of any unfinished basement is that hard, unwelcoming concrete floor. So stick with us as we share the best flooring options for finishing your basement. 

How much value does a finished basement add?

Finishing your basement can offer an estimated 70-90% ROI on the costs of the remodel. How much it ultimately adds to the sale price of your home depends on the materials used and any additional features, like plumbing fixtures or a private entrance. 

If you’re getting an appraisal, your finished basement will most likely be assessed as a below-grade living space (underground). The square footage of below-grade living space is typically valued at around half of what the above-grade space would be. In some cases, it may be priced at up to 75% of the main living space. 

Should I carpet my basement?

Carpet is often recommended because it adds warmth and comfort to these damp areas. However, if you’re not using the basement for additional everyday living, many other factors influence whether carpet or carpet tile is a good basement flooring option. This includes but isn’t limited to:

  • The exterior grading of your property

  • The presence of an interior emergency drainage system

  • The moisture and humidity of the climate where you live

  • Any exterior or interior waterproofing provisions

  • The condition of your foundation

The bottom line is that carpeting has lifestyle benefits. But it’s also the flooring option that’s most likely to need regular replacing. 

The best flooring for finishing your basement

Your two most valuable qualities in basement flooring are durability and moisture resistance. This is why most homeowners forgo hardwood as an option; it’s prone to warping. Instead, consider the two best candidates: tile and LVP.

Ceramic or porcelain tile

Tile is incredibly durable, sanitary, and design-friendly. It’s a naturally-derived material made to withstand moisture, so it’s perfect for damp environments. 

Its sanitary properties and hard surface resist allergens and mold for a cleaner-smelling and feeling underground space. If you’re adding another bathroom to a basement, tile is a must. It is also a worthy choice for basement laundry rooms and kitchenettes.

There are two key considerations before installing tile in a basement. The slab or subfloor must be level enough to accommodate it. Otherwise, moisture can enter. Upon ensuring the base is even enough, a waterproof membrane can fortify the area for tiling. 

The other is professional installation. An experienced tile setter knows how to utilize drainage design and expansion joints to prolong the life of your new basement tile. 

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP)

Modern vinyl flooring is far more attractive, durable, and water-resistant than what we were installing in rec rooms years ago. It’s also scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it the prime pick for playrooms, crafting areas, and pets. 

LVP features a clear “wear” layer on top of your chosen color/design that protects its appearance. Depending on the core and subfloor, LVP is also a better choice if you want a floor that feels more comfortable and less stony underfoot. 

Like tile, the slab must be as level as possible for proper installation. Many homeowners do DIY LVP installs. If you plan on doing so, store the flooring in the basement beforehand to let it acclimate to the temperatures and humidity where it will live.

The Designery can help finish your basement this winter

Finishing the basement can increase your quality of life by maximizing the square footage of your home. Find peace or ramp up productivity with extra room to work, work out, host loved ones, or enjoy activities. 

Not to mention, finishing your basement is a great winter remodeling project. If you’re looking to make improvements during the off-season, call The Designery. We have the best basement flooring options ready to install, and your first meeting with a design pro is free.