Fixing up the basement

[antkmom]

We are thinking of fixing up our basement into a family room. I really don't want to do carpet as I know it will be ruined quickly. Any ideas on what would be good flooring?

[Ableskills-Tiling]

Any ceramic floor tile would be suitable. A porcelain tile would be more hard wearing. If it is being used regularly I would recommend laying underfloor heating as the floor would be quite cold if you are using this as a family room.

[bubble]

Yes, I would have to agree with installing some under floor heating. Have you thought about using laminate flooring rather than going for tiles? It is quiet easy to install and looks good.

[antkmom]

We were leaning towards the hardwood look that just snaps together. I would love to have the heated floors. That is the one thing my husband and I regret not doing when we built this house. The builder actually geared us away from it saying it would be a ton more money. I think it would have been a great investment.

[manojjonam10]

If you’ve determined that your basement is sufficiently dry and moisture tests have shown the floor to be consistently dry, you may also want to consider ceramic or porcelain tile. The tiles can be installed directly on the cement floor.

[antkmom]

We did have tiles on the basement of our last house. Then we just bought some huge rugs from Walmart to keep the floors warmer. We are still in the process of making sure there are no leaks in the basement right now.

[KrisNY]

I love the wood floor look and those do-it yourself snap together pieces are easy!
I love the heated floor idea. My parents changed over a enclosed patio into their new living room- Of course they put new walls and insulation in and new carpet down- the floor underneath is concrete though- and it's so cold! They had to put a pellet stove in this room alone to keep it warm.
Good luck with your decision!

[antkmom]

I love the wood look floors too. I wonder if it will look good in a basement. It probably will dress it up nicely.

[jamesb]

My father has converted his basement into a wonderful family room. He used carpet which is nice as the winters are very cold.