You may be surprised to learn that carpet is actually a good choice for finished basements. As long as your basement isn’t too damp or prone to flooding, carpet can be a great choice to warm up the space. However, not all carpet is created equally, so you have to be smart about which type you use. If you want to add carpet flooring to your basement, here are the best options for Canadian homes.
Benefits of Carpet Flooring in Basements
We recently broke down the truth about carpeting in basements. From our findings we know that carpet is a good choice because it provides an added layer of warmth and comfort in an otherwise cold space. Another benefit of carpet in your basement is that it can be installed over an uneven concrete floor. This means that you won’t have to worry about paying for your floor to be levelled before installation. If you’re concerned about mold, carpet is actually no worse off than other floorings. It can be dried out quickly and this will prevent mold and mildew from growing.
The Best Carpet Flooring for Basements in Canada
When it comes time to choose the carpet for your basement, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First of all, you want to choose a carpet that is made of synthetic fibers as opposed to natural. Synthetic carpets do not retain moisture in the same way that natural fibers do. The less moisture the better when it comes to adding carpet in your basement. A synthetic carpet will withstand increased moisture levels and will be able to release the moisture. This means mold and mildew growth under the carpet is less of a concern.
Be sure to ask your carpet installation specialist if the backing and padding material is also synthetic as this is just as important as the carpet above it. You want to ensure that the underpad of your carpet is made of a synthetic material for the same reasons we mentioned above. A polyurethane foam pad is your best option, and be sure to stay away from a rubber pad.
Is Carpet Flooring Right for Your Basement?
While carpet flooring is a good choice for most basements, it’s not right for everyone. Carpet is a good choice for basements that are already finished and are generally dry. If you have not waterproofed your basement or it is prone to flooding, then all flooring poses a problem. If your basement has such issues, then your best option is to keep the concrete or cement flooring. You can add an outdoor area rug to the space to help warm it up but be prepared to throw it away in the event of a flood.
If you’re still undecided, you can always speak to a carpet installation specialist. They will be able to provide you with options that best suit your basement’s needs. If you want some alternative options to carpet, check out this article. At the end of the day, you want to invest in flooring that works for both your lifestyle and your home. Consider the moisture levels in your basement and connect with a pro when you’re ready to take the next step.
