The best kind of flooring for your finished basement will depend on your own needs.
Last week, we discussed how to plan for a finished basement in your new custom home. One of the more important decisions you’ll make for your lower level is flooring. Depending on your preferences and how you will use the space, certain types of flooring will work better for you than others. And, there are flooring choices that won’t work for covering concrete. Here are some of the most common flooring chosen by homeowners and the benefits of each.
Carpeting
Carpeting adds warmth and sound reduction to a basement. It is relatively inexpensive too, making this type of flooring a favorite among homeowners. With a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures available, carpeting will work with any décor. Cleaning and durability are important to consider, though. Heavy foot traffic will cause wear patterns, and if the living space is used for recreation and entertainment, spills are inevitable, and clean-up isn’t always easy.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are extremely durable, with many designs from which to choose – including tile that looks like wood and modern porcelain styles. Size, shape, and placement of tiles, plus the grout color you select, can contribute to an eye-catching designer look. Once again, consider how you will use your space. Ceramic tiles tend to be cooler than other flooring choices and not forgiving – breakables won’t last when dropped – and you’ll also want to opt for a tile that is slip resistant. Clean up is simple with tile, but do keep in mind that the grout can stain. Consider sealing the grout or choosing a deeper hue that won’t easily show foot traffic patterns or spills.
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is one of the most durable options and another great choice for your finished basement. The many patterns in vinyl flooring will make it easy to coordinate with the rest of your basement décor. Sheet vinyl can handle spills and is very easy to clean.
Laminate
Laminate is the new superstar in flooring for its ease of installation and flexibility for different applications. It holds up to heavy traffic, is easy to clean, and can mimic the look of wood, stone, or ceramic tile. Best of all, if you select vinyl laminate flooring, it will not be damaged by wet conditions, providing the ultimate peace of mind.
Design and Build Your Dream Home with Columbia Builders
Columbia Builders is the home builder of choice in Howard County, offering homes in Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, Columbia, Marriottsville, Fulton, Clarksville, Dayton, and Brookeville. No matter what the size and scope of your project, we have the skills, experience, and resources needed to bring your vision to life. We offer a level of customization that is truly unmatched and are committed to using materials and craftsmen of the highest quality, so you can trust that your new home is built to last.
If you’re ready to invest in a home that is built with your needs in mind, trust in us. Give Columbia Builders a call today at 410-730-0215 or use our contact form here. You can also keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Houzz, and Youtube, and don’t forget to check back on our blog for more tips and information!