If you’re in the process of planning an upcoming basement renovation, you likely already know just how important it can be to select the right flooring materials for your space. Whether you’re looking to expand your space for the family to relax in, or are looking to upgrade your basement into a secondary suite, choosing the best flooring for your space will help protect against premature wear, unnecessary repair costs, and more.
A common question the we encounter at Ashley Fine Floors is whether or not carpet is a wise investment for basement renovations. While there’s no direct “yes” or “no” answer, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re considering selecting carpet for your flooring. Read on to find out the best ways to incorporate carpet into your basement renovation.
Why Consider Carpeting?
As those of us in Alberta will know, the colder months often contribute to cooler areas in our homes, including our floors. Carpet can be a cost-effective, stylish, way to brighten up your area as well as increase insulation and retain warmth.
What Are the Challenges?
Basements can be tricky to outfit due to the fact that the natural lower temperature and more frequent presence of moisture can be harsh on floors. That doesn’t mean you can’t use carpets, but it does mean that you’ll need to be a little more selective when choosing the type of carpeting you want to incorporate. It’s also wise to keep in mind that you will probably need to swap out your flooring every 10 years or so to prevent moisture build up and carpet rot.
How to Choose the Best Option
As we mentioned above, selecting the right quality will go a long ways towards preventing mould build up and premature aging. A few key features that make carpets basement friendly are:
- Low pile: Low pile carpeting is thinner than high-pile styles, meaning it takes less time to dry out if it is exposed to moisture.
- Thinner padding: Less padding may seem unappealing since it means less built-in warmth, it also means there’s less chance of the carpet sucking up and retaining liquid.
- Opt for manmade: Organic materials such as wool are more susceptible to damage caused by becoming waterlogged. Carpets made out of nylon and polyester are better suited to repel liquids and to handle the more moist environments commonly found in basements.
- Look for waterproof backings: certain types of carpets have special waterproof backings the prevent moisture from passing through, making them the perfect option for basement areas.
Bonus Tip
Watch where you install: Even if you’ve selected a carpet that can handle basement conditions, it’s best to reserve it for specific areas that are less exposed to water on a regular basis. Laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens are best suited to another type of flooring like vinyl or linoleum.
Ready to get started on your next project? Contact the team at Ashley Fine Floors today!