Flooring Ideas For Basements

Add Color and Pattern with Carpet Tiles

If you want the comfort and warmth of carpet without the hassle of wall-to-wall installation, then opt for self-adhesive carpet tiles. They are simple for DIYers to install, they don't require a pad underneath, and they may be applied directly to wash dry concrete. Here, carpet tiles in white, brown, and 2 shades of red were laid down to make a random checkerboard pattern which plays up the room's fashionable color scheme. To get a less-attention-getting floor covering, utilize one neutral shade.

Paint Stripes on Concrete Basement Floors

For an affordable and stylish floor finish, paint concrete at a striped pattern. Employ wide stripes of light and dark gray first, then add narrow stripes of brighter colours. Use painter's tape to produce the pattern. Prep the surface by cleaning it with TSP. Remove loose paint and oily stains and allow the surface dry thoroughly. Apply a primer and ground paint formulated for concrete.

Finishing Basements

For the Look of Wood, Try Laminates

Because most types of hardwood are not suggested for below-grade setup, consider laminate flooring instead. Laminates consist of a cosmetic image (for instance, natural wood grain) printed on paper or other fibrous material, treated using plastic or resin, and secured to a rigid core such as medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Laminates resist stains and moisture and can be installed over concrete or a plywood subfloor. The technology continues to improve, producing ever more realistic imitations of organic materials, which means that you can find the look of real wood without the shrinking and warping.

Get the appearance of Parquet using Laminates

Solid-wood parquet isn't suitable for basement installation--it's too easily damaged by moisture--but you can get the look affordably with prefabricated or laminate parquet.

Choose Ceramic Tile for Easy Care

Ceramic tiles laid in groups of four and put on the pectoral create a checkerboard pattern which visually expands this living room. Ceramic tile is available in a number of styles and colors and installs easily over concrete. Make sure to pick tiles fabricated for floor installation. As a basement flooring material, ceramic tile is durable, low-maintenance, and moisture resistant.