Having a finished basement offers so much value to the home. When remodeling this space, one major decision involves choosing the right type of flooring. Below-grade flooring must hold up against moisture since most basements experience issues with excess water at some point. Tile, vinyl flooring, and laminate are three possible flooring options to consider. Here's a look at each to help you narrow down your choices.

Which Flooring Option Will Work Best in a Finished Basement?

1. Ceramic or Porcelain

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are attractive and available in a variety of colors and patterns. These materials also don't absorb water or develop rot like other flooring systems. Tile can be installed directly over the concrete slab in your basement. 

One downside is that tile is affected by the temperature of the concrete below it, which means your flooring may feel uncomfortably cold in the winter. Having a radiant heating system installed between the flooring and concrete will rectify this issue and add a touch of luxury with every step. 

2. Luxury Vinyl 

Because organic materials like hardwood are not ideal for basement moisture, homeowners can choose luxury vinyl that's designed to look like wood grain. Vinyl can also be made to look like other materials, such as stone, unlocking a wide range of aesthetic choices. 

Thanks to its top wear layer, vinyl is very durable. It's also thicker, which means it feels more comfortable underfoot. 

However, vinyl usually requires the installation of a subfloor system, which uses moisture barriers to prevent water damage. Subfloors are usually made from wood or plastic. Some systems are composed of interlocking tiles, while others come in large sheets that can be cut to your basement's specifications. 

3. Laminate

Laminate is easy to install, making it a smart choice for people putting in their own flooring systems. Thanks to its foam layer, it's warmer to the touch than other floors, especially tile. The foam layer is also good for sound absorption, which may be a concern if your finished basement is being used as a playroom for kids. 

Like luxury vinyl, laminate fares best when it's installed over a subfloor system, which keeps moisture damage at bay. The outer layer can be stamped with any image you choose, including wood grain, stone texture, patterns, and colors. 

No matter which flooring option you choose, you can rest assured that Surplus Sales has what you need. Since 1995, they've helped homeowners secure the quality materials they demand to perform home updates. With three convenient locations, you know you'll always find just what you need. They also offer other home improvement materials, including cabinets and countertops. Start shopping today by visiting their website. Call the Corbin, KY, location at (606) 523-9730, the Elkton store at (270) 265-0270, or the Paducah office at (270) 443-4590 to speak to a team member about your home's needs.