Hardwood Floors & Basements

Should we consider installing hardwood floors in a basement? The answer is yes and no. Generally most people that have basements may also have hardwood floors above and Engineered hardwood floors in basement wish to match the same look. For instance, many existing homes in northern climates have traditional 2 ¼” red oak strip flooring above basements in the main living area.

Often the preference is to have the same flooring installed below, but solid ¾” hardwoods have never been a good idea for basements or what is termed below grade (subfloor being below the soil line). Basement cellars are notorious for moisture problems that often stem from outside influences. Solid hardwoods that come into contact with excessive moisture or water often change shape by cupping or crowning. Often no fixes are available. Rain water that seeps through the foundation etc.

2 1/4" Engineered Strip Flooring

In our scenario above the Jones’s have their heart set on the same type of flooring for below as they have in the rest of their home. With solid hardwood being ruled out because of the adverse effect it has with high moisture content, a safer alternative is an engineered strip floor that can be glued to the concrete, providing all concerns with moisture are addressed. Several prefinished flooring manufacturers offer an engineered 2 ¼” strip product. Another alternative would be an unfinished engineered that can be sanded and finished on site.

With any gluedown floor in a basement it is highly suggested to use a vapor barrier. Some may suggest plastic sheeting glued, then a hardwood glued over that. Newer more sounding procedures call for a moisture barrier that can be applied by way of

trowleling. Products such as Bostiks MVP are often used.

Floating Floors Are The Best Option

Floating floors are probably best suited for installations in basements, providing proper moisture barriers are used. Damage incurred in basements with moisture problems are generally from moisture seeping in from below the subfloor or through walls. Common procedures for floating installations with vapor barriers not only below but up walls helps protect floating floors better.

There are numerous ideas with engineered flooring for basements today, just as there are for other areas of the home. It doesn’t have to be the same as the top floor.

Related Pages:

• Moisture Control - Drainage, Foundations
• Humidity & Hardwood Floors
• Testing for Moisture - Meters, Tools
• Hardwood Floor Problems - Evaluate before they begin
• Hardwood Concrete Sealers
• Red Or White Oak Hardwood Floors? Photo Gallery