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Best Floors For Finished Basements (2024 Update)

Choosing the right flooring for your finished basement is an important decision that requires careful consideration. With the wide variety of flooring options available, it can be overwhelming trying to select the perfect material that is durable, easy to clean, and enhances your basement’s aesthetic. Before making a purchase, be sure to factor in basement moisture levels, noise reduction, comfort underfoot, and overall maintenance requirements. The right flooring choice can transform your basement into a functional and inviting living space.

What style are you envisioning for your remodeled lower level? Do you want an industrial or rustic look with exposed concrete floors? Or maybe a cozy, carpeted family room is more your speed? Will this be a kids’ playroom where durability and easy cleaning are a must? Take time to think about how you want to use the space and the ambiance you hope to create before selecting any flooring materials. This will help narrow your options considerably.

Moisture resistance and noise reduction should be top priorities. Look for floors rated for basements that offer antimicrobial protection and acoustic insulation. While hard surfaces like tile and vinyl plank provide superb moisture resistance, soft surfaces like carpet may better absorb sound. Find the right balance for your needs. With careful planning and consideration of all the options, you’ll end up with the perfect basement floors that check all your boxes for style, comfort, and functionality.

10 Best Floors For Finished Basements

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for use in basements, home gyms, sheds, and trailers as a durable and safe flooring option made from recycled rubber.
2
Ideal for coating garage floors with a durable and attractive epoxy finish, covering up to 250 sq. ft. at 19.4 mils.
3
This interlocking foam mat is ideal for providing protective flooring in home, office, playroom, basement or trade show.
4
This product is ideal for creating a high-quality, insulated subfloor that protects against water leaks and provides a comfortable finished surface.
5
This product is ideal for coating basement floors with a durable and long-lasting finish.
6
DRICORE Subfloor Membrane helps protect against moisture, water leaks, and provides a warmer and softer finished floor.
7
It is ideal for waterproofing and sealing concrete foundations and basements both indoors and outdoors.
8
This product is ideal for installing waterproof peel and stick floor tiles in various areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
9
Seals and protects concrete & cement surfaces, providing a water repellent finish and strong adhesive properties for versatile use.
10
This product is ideal for leveling and supporting basement floors and house foundations.
Ideal for use in basements, home gyms, sheds, and trailers as a durable and safe flooring option made from recycled rubber.
Ideal for coating garage floors with a durable and attractive epoxy finish, covering up to 250 sq. ft. at 19.4 mils.
This interlocking foam mat is ideal for providing protective flooring in home, office, playroom, basement or trade show.
This product is ideal for creating a high-quality, insulated subfloor that protects against water leaks and provides a comfortable finished surface.
This product is ideal for coating basement floors with a durable and long-lasting finish.
DRICORE Subfloor Membrane helps protect against moisture, water leaks, and provides a warmer and softer finished floor.
It is ideal for waterproofing and sealing concrete foundations and basements both indoors and outdoors.
This product is ideal for installing waterproof peel and stick floor tiles in various areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Seals and protects concrete & cement surfaces, providing a water repellent finish and strong adhesive properties for versatile use.
This product is ideal for leveling and supporting basement floors and house foundations.

1. Durable Flexiroll: Heavy Duty Rubber Flooring

Unlock the full potential of your space with rolled rubber flooring for garage floors and countless other demanding environments. This rugged flooring is made from recycled rubber and comes in a huge selection of colors to complement any décor. Whether you need flooring for your home or commercial space, indoors or out, this flooring is proven to withstand the toughest conditions.

Built to last, these large heavy duty rubber mats offer moisture-resistant protection to guard your home from weightlifting, animal care, and extra heavy equipment. With plenty of grip and bounce, they provide a reliable foundation for everything from toolboxes to treadmills, spin classes to deadlifts.

The sleek surface of these mats is designed for maximum versatility, easy cleaning, and seamless style. 4' wide rubber floor mat rolls are easy to trim around walls, corners, and objects, creating edge-to-edge padded surfaces that let equipment move freely. This customizability makes them ideal for a variety of settings, including industrial storage, horse stalls, and trailer flooring.

While these mats are perfect for garage gym flooring under a weight bench or machine, their slip resistance and versatility make them ideal for transforming any demanding space.

IncStores has been outfitting every room in and around your home with high-quality rubber workout flooring for more than a decade. We believe that a stronger, safer, and smarter looking home starts from the floor up. That's why we offer rubber flooring in countless styles to suit any taste or need. Invest in a foundation of quality with these rolled rubber mats and unlock the full potential of your space.

2. Garage Pro Epoxy Coat: Dark Gray & Durable

This Dark Gray with Gray Blend Flakes coating kit is perfect for improving the look and durability of various types of floors. With a coverage area of 250 square feet at 19.4 mils, this kit can be used on garage floors, basement floors, concrete floors, wood floors, and more.

The kit includes everything needed for the project, including 2 part 100% solids epoxy, clear top coat epoxy, decorative flakes, and application tools. This ensures that users have all the necessary materials for a successful application.

The product is made in the USA and comes with a lifetime guarantee, making it a reliable choice for anyone seeking a high-performance coating kit. It is 10 times more durable than big-box store brands and water-based epoxies, ensuring that it will maintain its quality for years to come.

This coating kit is also slip-resistant, odor-free, and easy to apply, making it a convenient choice for any user. It provides a high-gloss finish that resists chemicals, salt, oil, and hot tires, ensuring a long-lasting and attractive result.

3. Foam Oak Grain Interlocking Floor Tiles

The 100 Sqft FOAM Flooring is a great addition to any indoor space. It is made of durable, flexible, and shock-absorbing interlocking foam tiles that help protect floors while providing support and cushioning. Each tile measures 24" X 24" X 3/8", and the set includes a total of 25 pieces, covering 100 Sqft of space.

The elegant wood grain pattern design of the mats easily fits any room decor, making it perfect for living rooms, basements, playrooms, and more. The 100 square foot size is also perfect for trade shows.

The mats interlock with a simple jigsaw puzzle connection, ensuring a secure and seamless look. Each mat comes with 2 border pieces for edging, and the mats can be easily set up or removed for storage in just a few minutes.

It's important to note that these mats are designed for indoor use only and that weight applied to them can cause indentations. However, they are BPA-free and Phthalates-free. They are also water-resistant and noise-resistant, making them easy to clean.

It's essential to keep in mind that damages caused by pet nails, high heels, or sharp objects are not covered by the manufacturer. Additionally, the mats are designed with a soft film wood print, giving them a smooth hardwood-like appearance. Although the mats are printed to depict wood, the color or shade may vary slightly on each piece of the mat.

4. Insul-Armor Subfloor: Leak-Proof, Warm, Soft.

The DRICORE Insul-Armor floor panels are an excellent solution for those looking to improve the air quality in their home. These panels come equipped with Air Gap Technology, which provides protection against moisture and small water leaks. This feature makes it ideal for basement flooring, laminate flooring, and engineered wood floors.

Installation is easy with these lightweight subfloor panels, thanks to their advanced tongue and groove design. With no need for power tools, taping, or sawdust, a 500 sq. ft. room can be completed in an afternoon. These panels are perfect for renovation, refinishing floors, basement refinishing, floor insulation underlayment, carpet padding, and floor padding.

The DRICORE Insul-Armor panels are also great for insulation, elevating finished floors to create a thermal break from cold concrete floors. The premium flooring panel has an R-value of 4.1, providing warmth and comfort all year round.

These panels are built to last, compatible with all types of hard surface finished flooring. Each panel weighs 1.63 lbs and can support up to 3,650 lbs. per sq. ft. The specially engineered EPS foam panel has a density of 3 pounds, making it perfect for use with laminates, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), engineered hardwood, and carpet.

The DRICORE Insul-Armor panels come with a 25-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind with your purchase. Waterproof and providing a layer of protection against moisture and cold coming from the concrete, these panels are the best subfloor in the market.

5. Rust-Oleum 203008 Epoxyshield Basement Floor Coating, 120 Fl Oz, Tan

This product is specially designed to be used on interior sound concrete floors that are free from curing agents and sealers. It is a perfect solution for transforming a basement into a comfortable living, playing, or working space. This product provides an attractive satin finish that is suitable for indoor use only.

This floor coating is incredibly easy to clean up with just soap and water, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. The product is water-based and has a low odor, making it safe to use in enclosed spaces. Additionally, this product doesn't require a primer, saving time and money on prep work.

One of the standout features of this product is its one-coat coverage, providing excellent value for your money. With this product, you can transform your concrete floor in no time, giving it a fresh and modern look.

Please note that this product should only be used on interior sound concrete floors that are free from curing agents and sealers. It is not suitable for exterior use or on floors that have been treated with sealers or curing agents.

Transform your plain concrete floor into a beautiful and functional space with this easy-to-use floor coating.

6. Dricore Moisture-Proof Subfloor Panel (Bundle Of 132)

Equipped with Air Gap Technology, the DRICORE Subfloor panels provide protection against moisture and small water leaks, ensuring better indoor air quality. This subfloor panel is designed with a high-density plastic membrane, making it ideal for various flooring options such as laminate, LVT, engineered hardwood, carpet, and tile, especially in basement flooring.

Installation is made easy and convenient with the tongue and groove design, allowing a 495 sq. ft. room to be completed in an afternoon. It is perfect for renovation, refinishing floors, basement refinishing, and floor insulation. The secondary layer of oriented strand board (OSB) provides a solid foundation that can support any type of finished floor and furniture.

Not only is it easy to install, but the DRICORE Subfloor panels also provide warmer floors. Elevating finished floors, it creates a thermal break from the cold concrete floors, making floors feel warm with an R-value of 3.0, ensuring comfortable floors all year round.

The subfloor panel is durable and strong, compatible with all types of finished flooring. It is soft enough to support carpet and strong enough to support up to 6642 lbs. per sq. ft., making it suitable for laminates, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), engineered hardwood, carpet, and tile.

With a 25-year limited warranty on flooring insulation products, you can be confident with your purchase. It is perfect for solid hardwood floors, wooden floors, and basement finishing, as the subfloor panels provide a layer of protection to help with moisture and cold coming from the concrete.

7. Sealpro Concrete Waterproof Coating – Black, 5 Gal

This protective finish is designed to safeguard a variety of surfaces including foundations, ICF's, basements, shower liners, deck and fence posts, planter boxes, metal, wood, and concrete. Its high flexibility ensures that the sealant final membrane stretches over 900%, preventing adhesion failure that can cause cracks and tearing.

With easy application, there's no need for mixing, and the sealant can be applied using a brush, roller, or high-quality piston paint sprayer. The container can be closed, and any leftover material can be used later. Furthermore, there's no pot life or working time, unlike two-component products.

Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant is environmentally friendly and water-based, making it safe for humans and pets alike. It contains no solvents, VOC's, or harmful odors, and can be used both indoors and outdoors without the need for any special breathing apparatus.

To ensure a bulletproof system, bridge joints, seams, vents, gaps, protrusions, and any other areas where possible movement may occur with Liquid Rubber Seam Tape or Liquid Rubber Geo-Textile. For full application steps, please scroll down.

This highly flexible protective finish is the perfect solution for anyone looking for an easy-to-apply, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting sealant that can be used on a variety of surfaces. With no mixing required, it's easy to apply using a brush, roller, or high-quality piston paint sprayer, and any leftover material can be used later. Plus, its water-based formula ensures that it's safe for both humans and pets. So, if you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use protective finish, Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant is the perfect solution.

8. Waterproof Peel-And-Stick Vinyl Floor Tiles – 20 Pcs

This box of 20 tiles measures 12" x 12" x 1mm, enough to cover a total of 20 square feet. With its easy peel-and-stick installation feature, no special tools or grout are needed to apply it, making it a convenient option for homeowners.

This product is versatile and can be used in various settings such as bedrooms, bathrooms, studies, living rooms, kitchens, corridors, furniture, cabinets, countertops, and walls. It is an excellent choice for home decoration and can be cut to fit any shape or size.

This product is multifunctional, as it is water-resistant and washable, making it easy to maintain. It is also resistant to high temperatures, scratches, and oils, ensuring durability and longevity. In the event that you are not completely satisfied with your purchase within 30 days, the seller offers a money-back guarantee, providing excellent value for your money.

For best results, it is recommended to place the tiles on a clean, dry, and smooth surface. It is also advised to purchase enough rolls at a time to ensure that they come from the same batch, avoiding any potential color differences.

9. Sealfastâ„¢ Water Repellant Floor Sealer – Usa Made

The All-Purpose Sealant offered by Seelfast is a versatile and reliable solution for sealing porous cement surfaces, such as floors, sidewalks, walkways, or driveways. In addition to its primary use as a cement sealer, it can also serve as an excellent adhesive for sealing cardboard cartons or applying labels. This makes it a valuable tool for both residential and commercial settings.

This professional-grade commercial floor sealer is designed for indoor and outdoor use. It can eliminate concrete dust and help prevent water and oil penetration, ensuring a longer lifespan for your concrete surfaces. The transparent finish provides a full-strength adhesive, making it ideal for creating a base coat that dries quickly and reaches full cure after approximately 7 days.

In addition to its sealing properties, this sealant can also be used for food preservation. A gallon of Seelfast sealant can be used to preserve up to 600 eggs for a full year, making it an ideal choice for farm-fresh storage.

Seelfast takes pride in crafting their sealants in the USA under strict guidelines to ensure a safe, non-hazardous, and fumeless formula that you can trust. With Seelfast, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality product that will help you tackle your concrete sealing needs with ease.

10. Adjustable Basement Jacks For Leveling.

The BISupply Adjustable Jack Posts Basement Floor Joist Support Jack is an essential tool for homeowners dealing with cracked floor joists, sagging porches or decks, and rotting support beams. These house leveling jacks are made of top-quality heavy-duty steel and have a red oxide finish that makes them resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring they last long.

These adjustable floor jack posts come with a 3-inch diameter base post that is welded to the bottom plate and includes a screw jack pole and turning bar with a large top plate and (4) locking pins. Each house screw jack post is ISO9001 certified for strength and durability, making them reliable and safe to use.

Adjusting the height of the basement post jack is easy with the turning bar and screw bolt. These jacks can be extended telescopically for temporary leveling, bracing, and stabilizing your floor beams or roof trusses, making them versatile and useful in a variety of situations. The maximum weight capacity of these jacks decreases as jack height extends, with a minimum height capacity of 11,200 pounds (5,080 kg) and a maximum height capacity of 2,500 pounds (1,134 kg).

To ensure secure positioning, the base plate should be installed on a stable concrete slab under the area you wish to support. The mounting holes on base plates should be bolted down to supporting bricks, and the turning bar should be used to extend the height of the house floor jack. Always grease threads before use (grease not included) to maintain the jacks' longevity.

These adjustable floor jacks are versatile and can be used to temporarily secure a weak floor, crawl space, heavy loading area, stairs, or roof trusses. They are ideal for home and industrial settings but are not designed for use as permanent supports.

Best Floors For Finished Basements FAQs

Are cork floors a good option for a finished basement?

Cork floors can be a good option for a finished basement, depending on the specific needs and uses of the space. Cork is a natural insulator, so it can help keep the basement warm in colder weather. It is also a durable and eco-friendly flooring material that is resistant to moisture and mold, which are common issues in basements.

However, it is important to note that cork floors can be more expensive than other types of flooring, such as vinyl or laminate. Additionally, cork can be prone to scratches and dents, so it may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas or spaces where heavy items will be moved around frequently.

Overall, if you are looking for a flooring option that is both environmentally friendly and functional in a basement, cork floors may be worth considering. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and consult with a professional before making a final decision.

Can hardwood flooring be used in a finished basement?

Yes, hardwood flooring can be used in a finished basement, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure its durability and longevity. Basements are prone to moisture and humidity, which can cause wood to warp, buckle, or even grow mold. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a type of hardwood that is resistant to moisture and humidity, such as engineered hardwood or bamboo. Additionally, it is important to properly seal and waterproof the concrete subfloor before installing the hardwood flooring. This will help to prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete and damaging the wood. It is also recommended to install a moisture barrier between the subfloor and the hardwood flooring. Lastly, it is important to monitor the humidity levels in the basement and use a dehumidifier if necessary. With proper installation and maintenance, hardwood flooring can add warmth and beauty to a finished basement.

Can tile flooring be used in a finished basement?

Yes, tile flooring can be used in a finished basement. In fact, it is a popular choice for basements because of its durability and resistance to moisture. However, it is important to ensure that the basement is properly prepared for tile installation. This includes checking for any moisture issues, such as water leaks or high humidity levels, and addressing them before installation. Additionally, it is important to choose a tile that is appropriate for the use and conditions of the basement. For example, a porcelain tile is a good choice for high-traffic areas and is resistant to scratches and stains. It is also important to properly seal the grout to prevent moisture from seeping through the tile. Overall, with proper preparation and installation, tile flooring can be a great option for a finished basement.

How durable is epoxy flooring for finished basements?

Epoxy flooring is an excellent choice for finished basements due to its durability and resistance to moisture. When properly installed, epoxy flooring can last for many years without showing signs of wear and tear. The thickness of the epoxy coating can play a significant role in its durability. A thicker coating is generally more durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and other impacts. Additionally, the preparation of the surface prior to installation is critical to ensuring the longevity of the epoxy flooring. Proper cleaning, degreasing, and roughening of the surface can help the epoxy adhere better and last longer. In addition to being durable, epoxy flooring is also easy to clean and maintain, making it an ideal choice for basement floors that may be prone to spills and stains. Overall, epoxy flooring is a highly durable and long-lasting option for finished basements.

Is carpet a good choice for a finished basement floor?

Carpet can be a good choice for a finished basement floor for several reasons. First, it provides insulation and can help keep the space warm during colder months. Second, it can absorb sound and reduce echoes and noise levels. Third, it can add a cozy and comfortable feel to the space, making it more inviting for family and guests. However, it is important to consider potential moisture issues in basements, as carpets can be prone to mold and mildew growth if exposed to moisture. It is recommended to choose a carpet with a moisture-resistant backing or to install a moisture barrier underneath the carpet. Additionally, it is important to regularly clean and maintain the carpet to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, and allergens. Ultimately, whether or not carpet is a good choice for a finished basement floor depends on individual preferences, needs, and the specific conditions of the space.

What are the advantages of using vinyl flooring in a finished basement?

Vinyl flooring is an excellent option for a finished basement due to its numerous benefits. One advantage is that it is waterproof, making it an ideal choice for basements where moisture may be an issue. It can resist water damage, mold, and mildew, which is essential in a space that is prone to dampness.

Another advantage of vinyl flooring is its durability. It is a long-lasting and robust material that can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for a basement that may be used as a recreation room or home gym.

Vinyl flooring also comes in a variety of styles and colors, allowing homeowners to choose a design that complements their basement's decor. It can mimic the look of hardwood or tile, giving the basement a high-end look without the maintenance that comes with those materials.

Lastly, vinyl flooring is easy to install and maintain, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners looking to finish their basement. With proper care, it can last for years, making it a smart investment for any homeowner.

What are the best flooring options for finished basements?

When it comes to choosing the best flooring options for finished basements, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, basements tend to be prone to moisture, so it's essential to choose a material that can handle damp conditions. Additionally, basements can be a high-traffic area, so durability is also a critical consideration. Finally, you'll want to choose a flooring option that complements the overall style of the basement.

Some of the best flooring options for finished basements include vinyl, ceramic tile, and engineered wood. Vinyl flooring is a popular choice because it's water-resistant, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Ceramic tile is another excellent option for basements because it's moisture-resistant and can withstand heavy foot traffic. Engineered wood is also a great choice because it looks like real wood but can handle moisture better than traditional hardwood.

Ultimately, the best flooring option for your finished basement will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional flooring contractor to help you choose the right material for your basement.

What are the pros and cons of using luxury vinyl plank flooring in a finished basement?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring has become an increasingly popular choice for finished basements due to its durability, water resistance, and affordability. However, it also has its pros and cons.

Pros:

1. Water-resistant: Luxury vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, making it an excellent option for basements that are prone to moisture.

2. Durability: It is highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and scratches.

3. Easy maintenance: It is quite easy to clean and maintain.

4. Aesthetically pleasing: Luxury vinyl plank flooring comes in a variety of styles and colors, making it easy to find a design that matches your taste.

Cons:

1. Hardness: It can be hard underfoot, which might be uncomfortable for some individuals.

2. Coldness: Luxury vinyl plank flooring can feel cold, especially during the winter season.

3. Cost: While luxury vinyl plank flooring is relatively affordable compared to other flooring options, it can still be expensive.

4. Environmental concerns: Some people have concerns about the environmental impact of luxury vinyl plank flooring, as it is made from synthetic materials.

Overall, luxury vinyl plank flooring can be an excellent choice for a finished basement, provided that the pros and cons are weighed against your specific needs and preferences.

What is the best way to install a concrete floor in a finished basement?

Installing a concrete floor in a finished basement can be a great way to improve the durability and functionality of the space. The first step is to prepare the existing floor by thoroughly cleaning and leveling it. Next, a moisture barrier should be installed to prevent any groundwater from seeping through and causing damage to the new floor.

Once the moisture barrier is in place, a layer of insulation can be added to improve energy efficiency. After the insulation is installed, a layer of gravel or crushed stone should be spread over the entire area to provide a stable base for the concrete.

The concrete can then be poured and leveled, and left to dry for several days. Finally, a sealing agent should be applied to protect the surface from stains and damage.

It is important to note that installing a concrete floor in a finished basement can be a complex and labor-intensive process. It may be best to hire a professional contractor who has experience with this type of project to ensure a high-quality result.

Will laminate flooring work well in a finished basement?

Yes, laminate flooring can work well in a finished basement. Laminate flooring is a popular choice for basement flooring because it is durable, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive. Laminate flooring is also moisture-resistant, which makes it ideal for basement environments where humidity levels can be higher than in other areas of the home.

However, it is important to make sure that the basement is properly prepared before installing laminate flooring. The concrete floor should be level and free of any cracks or moisture issues. A moisture barrier should also be installed to prevent any moisture from seeping up through the concrete and damaging the laminate flooring.

Additionally, it is important to choose a laminate flooring brand and style that is specifically designed for use in basement environments. These laminate flooring options will have additional features to help protect against moisture and humidity.

Overall, with proper preparation and the right laminate flooring choice, laminate flooring can be a great option for a finished basement.

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