9 Types of Basement Flooring: Materials, Porosity, and Performance

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Basement flooring is a layer of material that is installed on the basement floor surface in order to enhance functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal while managing moisture and temperature in the basement.

An ideal basement flooring should be lower porosity, higher strength, flexible, resistant to mold and mildew, resistant to pests and insects, and be easy to install on the floor. These are the most used 9 types of basement floorings that consist of most of the above properties.

9 Types of basement floorings

Epoxy flooring
Vinyl flooring
Concrete flooring
Tile flooring
Polyurethane flooring
Rubber flooring
Cork flooring
PVC flooring
Laminate flooring

Basement floorings can increase the durability of the basement, comfortability, aesthetic appeal, moisture resistance, thermal insulation, noise reduction, and property value. Also, basement flooring can reduce the maintenance, mold, and mildew growth in the basement.

Among these basement floorings water, water-resistant basement floorings are epoxy, vinyl, and tile floorings. The cheapest basement floorings are vinyl, laminate, and concrete. You can use vinyl, carpet tiles, and rubber flooring for uneven basement floors. You can also use epoxy, vinyl, tiles, and rubber flooring for regularly flooding basements. Rubber and PVC flooring are the best solution when you use the basement for the gym or any other purpose.

Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy flooring is the popular option for most basement floors due to its non-porous nature, ease of application, higher chemical and abrasion resistance, and moisture resistance. Because of its low porosity, epoxy does not absorb water and minimizes the risk of water damage to the basement floor. Using epoxy for basement flooring always helps to prevent water infiltration which can cause structural damage over time.

Epoxy flooring consists of high strength and durability and resists wear and tear. Hence, epoxy flooring is highly recommended for basement floor areas where we need to place heavy items. Epoxy's resistance to insects and pests helps to protect stored items on the basement floor.

Not only that, epoxy flooring offers excellent mold and mildew resistance due to its non-porous surface. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth on the basement floor. Epoxy basement flooring always helps to maintain a healthier environment by preventing fungal growth that can compromise air quality.

Epoxy flooring is easy to apply on the surface. You will need a professional skill to ensure a smooth finish. It will cost $3 to $12 per square foot, depending on the quality of the material, the application area, and user skill.

Pros of epoxy flooring on the basement floor

Epoxy flooring is water-resistant material for basement floor
Epoxy flooring is a durable and strong basement flooring material
Epoxy flooring is a mold and mildew-resistant material
Epoxy flooring requires a low maintenance and higher resistance

Cons of epoxy flooring on the basement floor

Epoxy flooring is slippery when wet on the basement floor
Epoxy flooring requires professional installation for basement flooring
Epoxy flooring can be cracked due to foundation shift
Higher-quality epoxies are expensive

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a low porosity, higher water-resistant material for the basement floor. Vinyl flooring helps protect the basement from moisture-related issues like water damage or mold growth. Hence, vinyl flooring is highly recommended for basement floors with higher humidity levels.

Vinyl flooring is relatively strong but not as tough as harder materials like tile or epoxy. Vinyl basement floorings can handle a moderate load and resist insects and pests. Hence, vinyl flooring can properly protect basement storage items on the floor from insects.

Vinyl flooring is water resistant, preventing moisture from seeping in, reducing the risk of fungal growth and helping maintain a healthier environment on the basement floor.

Vinyl flooring is easy to install on the basement floor. It costs between $2 to $7 per square foot on the basement floor, but it depends on the type of vinyl and its quality.

Pros of vinyl on the basement floor

Vinyl flooring is water-resistant the basement floor
Vinyl flooring is affordable for the basement floor by considering other materials
Vinyl flooring is easy to install on the basement floor
Vinyl flooring prevents mold and mildew growth on the basement floor

Cons of vinyl on the basement floor

Vinyl flooring can be damaged due to heavy loads on the basement floor
Vinyl flooring is Less durable with considering other materials
Vinyl flooring requires a smooth basement floor
Can fade with exposure to sunlight

Concrete Flooring

Concrete flooring is a durable and cost-effective option for basement floors. Concrete has a natural porosity. Concrete can absorb moisture until it is saturated. Then it tends to seep it. Hence, unsealed concrete basement floors lead to issues like dampness or water seepage due to the underground water table. However, the porosity of the concrete can be reduced by sealing or polishing it. Sealed and polished concrete floors are more resistant to water and water damage.

Concrete is one of the most durable base materials for basement floors. Concrete can handle heavy loads on the basement floor. Concrete is naturally resistant to insects and pests, which minimizes concerns about infestations affecting stored items. Polished concrete basement floors also enhance its durability, providing a smooth, reflective surface that is less prone to cracking.

Also, polished concrete basement floors prevent fungal growth and reduce the risk of mold.

The cost for standard concrete flooring is about $2 to $6 per square foot, while polished concrete can range from $3 to $12 per square foot, depending on the level of polish and the condition of the area.

Pros of concrete flooring on basement

Extremely durable basement flooring
Low maintenance of high-performance basement flooring
Pest and mold-resistant basement flooring
It can be polished for sealing according to the environmental conditions.

Cons of concrete flooring on the basement

Provide a Hard surface basement floor, not ideal for comfort
It should be cast early for better performance.
Potential for cracking with foundation shifts

Tile Flooring

Tile basement flooring has a higher aesthetic appeal and stronger surface than other basement flooring. Tile flooring in the basement mainly has two types: ceramic and porcelain tiles. These are great choices for basement floors due to their low porosity and hardness. Low porosity increases the water resistance of the tile surface, and hardness helps to withstand higher loads on the floor. Therefore, tiled basement floors do not have a risk of water damage or seepage and structure failure due to heavy loads on the floor.

Tile basement flooring is ideal for heavy storage and ensures long-lasting storage protection due to its resistance to insects and pets. Also, the basement floorings are highly mold- and mildew-resistant, which makes them prone to dampness. Tile installation on the basement floor requires professional skill, and it will cost $5 to $10 per square foot.

Pros of tile basement flooring

Tiles provide water-resistant basement floor
Tiled basement floors are extremely durable
Tiled basement floors are mold and mildew-resistant
Tiled basement floors are available in various styles

Cons of tile basement flooring

Tiled basement floors are cold and hard underfoot
Tiled basement floors require professional installation
Tiled basement floors can crack if the foundation shifts
More expensive than some other flooring options

Polyurethane Flooring

Polyurethane flooring is an excellent option for basements due to its seamless and non-porous surface. Polyurethane flooring provides strong water resistance and flexibility to the basement floor. Its low porosity prevents water from seeping through the material, protecting the basement floor from moisture damage.

Polyurethane floorings are highly durable, strong, and flexible. It can handle both heavy traffic and slight structural movements without cracking the layer. Polyurethane floorings are naturally resistant to insects and pests. Hence, it helps preserve the integrity of basement storage areas from insects and moisture.

Polyurethane flooring consists of excellent mold and mildew resistance. The non-porous nature of the material does not allow moisture to penetrate in. Therefore, polyurethane basement floorings have a small probability to mold and mildew growth due to higher humidity.

Polyurethane flooring will cost $4 to $8 per square foot to install it on the basement floor. Installing should be done with a professional and the cost of the installation may depends on the thickness of the layer and quality of the product.

Pros of the polyurethane on the basement floor

Polyurethane flooring provides a seamless and water-resistant basement floor
Basement polyurethane flooring is flexible and durable
Basement polyurethane flooring is mold and mildew-resistant
Basement polyurethane flooring is easy to clean

Cons of the polyurethane on the basement floor

Basement PU floor can be slippery when wet
Polyurethane flooring requires professional installation on the basement floor
Polyurethane flooring is susceptible to UV discolouration over time
Polyurethane flooring has a higher initial cost compared to some other basement flooring

Rubber Flooring

Rubber flooring has a non-porous surface and is flexible. Hence, rubber floorings can be used to prevent water from penetrating and to install uneven basement floors. As a result fo, this basement floor can be protected from the water and keep it a dry place without the risk of mold and mildew.

Rubber floorings are durable and flexible. Hence, it can withstand heavy foot traffic and even slight movements on the basement floor. Rubber floorings provide a natural barrier against insects and pests, which is beneficial for maintaining clean and pest-free storage areas.

Rubber flooring is naturally mold and mildew-resistant. Hence, it can be used on basement floors with higher humidity and dampness. Rubber’s cushioned surface also provides comfort underfoot, making it a good option for playrooms or home gyms in basements.

Rubber flooring is easy to install on the basement floor. It will cost between $3 to $8 per square foot. However, the cost may vary depending on the thickness and quality of the material.

Pros of rubber flooring on the basement

Rubber flooring provides a water-resistant basement floor
Rubber flooring makes the basement floor cushioned and comfortable
Rubber flooring prevents mold and mildew in the basement floor
Rubber floorings are easy to install on the basement floor

Cons of rubber flooring on the basement

Rubber flooring can have a rubbery odor in the basement
Rubber flooring has limited style options
Rubber flooring may be more expensive than vinyl
Rubber flooring is susceptible to staining

Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is an eco-friendly option for basement floors. Cork floorings have a lower natural water resistance due to their cellular structure. Due to its lower water resistance, cork floorings are not highly recommended for very damp basement floors. In order to improve the water-resistance of the cork flooring, it should be sealed properly.

Cork is a softer material than other basement flooring options. Hence, cork flooring is not suitable for heavily loaded basement floors. Heavy loads can dent or damage the flooring over time. As well as, cork naturally repels insects and pests which leads to longer basement floor..

Cork has antimicrobial properties. That helps minimize mold and mildew growth on the basement floor. Cork also provides insulation to the basement floor. It helps to keep the basement warmer and more comfortable.

Cork flooring is relatively easy to install on the basement floor. It will cost $3 to $8 per square foot.

Pros of cork flooring on the basement

Cork flooring is Eco-friendly and renewable
Cork flooring provides insulation and warmth to the basement floor
Cork flooring is naturally mold and mildew-resistant
Cork flooring is soft and comfortable underfoot on the basement floor

Cons of cork flooring on the basement

Cork flooring can dent due to heavy loads on the basement floor
Cork flooring needs proper sealing for moisture protection
Cork flooring is susceptible to scratches
Cork flooring has limited style and color options

PVC flooring

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flooring is a durable and waterproof option for the basement floor. PVC flooring has a non-porosity; hence, water can not penetrate the material. It provides excellent protection against water damage and prevents moisture from reaching the basement floor. Hence, PVC floorings are highly recommended for basement floors with higher humidity.

PVC flooring is strong and durable. Hence, PVC flooring can be used for both living and storage areas on the basement floors. PVC flooring is resistant to insects and pests and helps to make the basement floor last longer.

PVC flooring is naturally resistant to mold and mildew as well as it does not absorb moisture. These qualities of the PVC flooring help to prevent mold and mildew growth of fungi and maintain a healthier indoor environment.

PVC flooring is easy to install on the basement floor. It can be done as a DIY project. The cost of this ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the quality and thickness of the material.

Pros:

PVC flooring provides 100% waterproof basement floor
PVC flooring is resistant to mold and mildew
PVC flooring is easy to install on the basement floor
PVC flooring is durable and low-maintenance

Cons:

PVC flooring feels less comfortable underfoot
PVC flooring has limited design options
PVC flooring can fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight
PVC flooring is not as eco-friendly as other options

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a popular basement flooring option due to its affordability and easy installation. Laminate flooring has a moderate porosity. Without sealing the laminate flooring can absorb a certain amount of water when it is installed on the basement floor. However, the permeability of the laminate flooring can be reduced by applying a suitable vapor barrier.

Laminate flooring is relatively strong and durable. But it is not as tough and strong as tile and concrete. Laminate flooring can be damaged by heavy items. But it is highly resistant to insects and pests which can help to protect basement storage spaces from infestations.

Laminate flooring can lead to mold growth when water penetrates the material. But waterproofing laminate offers better protection against mold and mildew which make it more susceptible to damp basement floors.

Laminate flooring is easy to install on the basement floor. The cost of laminate flooring typically ranges from $1 to $5 per square foot.

Pros of laminate flooring on the basement floor

Laminate flooring is affordable for basement floors
Laminate flooring is easy to install on the basement floor
Laminate flooring has a wide variety of designs
Laminate flooring is resistant to insects and pests.

Cons of laminate flooring on the basement floor

Laminate flooring is not fully waterproof (unless specially treated)
Laminate flooring can warp with moisture exposure
Laminate flooring is less durable than other materials
Laminate flooring can be noisy without proper underlayment

How to Fail a Basement Flooring?

Basement flooring can fail by cracking, shifting and developing gaps between the floorings. A basement flooring can fail due to improper moisture barrier installation, using non-waterproofing materials, ignoring subfloor penetration, poor installation of moving floors, and inadequate seams and joints on the basement.

A failed basement flooring tends to allow moisture to seep in and it leads to water damage, mold and mildew growth, warping, swelling, and buckling of the material over time. Additionally, failed basement flooring led to pest infestation, a musty and earthy smell in the basement.

To prevent failure the basement flooring, basement should be waterproof. Basement waterproofing is installing waterproofing membranes on the basement floor, and walls in order to stop water leaking inside the basement.

What are the Water Resistant Basement Floorings?

Epoxy, vinyl, and tile (ceramic or porcelain) are the most water-resistant basement floorings. Epoxy offers a seamless, non-porous surface that completely repels water, making it ideal for basement floors prone to flooding or moisture issues. Vinyl flooring is waterproof and it provides excellent moisture resistance at a lower cost. Tile flooring is naturally water-resistant and highly durable, making it a reliable option for damp basements.

What are the Cheapest Basement Floorings?

The most affordable basement flooring options are typically vinyl, laminate, and concrete. Vinyl flooring can cost around $2 to $5 per square foot, while laminate flooring costs $1 to $5 per square foot. Standard concrete flooring will cost between $2 to $6 per square foot when it is installed on the basement.

What Basement Flooring is good for the Basement Gym?

Rubber flooring is the best choice for a basement gym due to its durability, cushioning, and impact absorption. Rubber flooring provides a soft, non-slip surface that is ideal for absorbing shock from dropped weights and reducing noise on the basement floor.

What Basement Floorings are good for Uneven Floors?

For uneven basement floors, the best flooring options are vinyl, carpet tiles, and rubber flooring.

What Basement Floorings are Good for Basement Flooding?

Epoxy, Vinyl, Tiles, and Rubber flooring are highly recommended for the flooding basement. All of these floorings are either waterproof or highly water resistant. Hence it reduces the impact of water and water damage. Also, these floorings are easy to clean, and mold and mildew-resistant that helps to maintain the basement floor last longer.

What Basement Flooring is suitable for a Wet Basement?

Epoxy, vinyl, tile (ceramic or porcelain), and rubber flooring, are excellent basement flooring for wet basements.