Basement Flooring: Challenges and Obstacles
You have decided to extend your living space and finish your basement. The walls are up, and it is time to choose the basement flooring.
Flooring options are limitless and the basement is one of the most challenging parts of the home. Uneven surfaces, humidity, moisture, low ceilings and possible flooding are often obstacles to overcome. Before you invest in new flooring, consider the following challenges and be sure to do some research.
Humidity and Moisture
Basements are often used to store mementos, unused items, and canned and dried foods. The fact remains that the items stored in the basement can get damp due to the home’s foundation. Although concrete is considered the most dependable and most durable material available, it is still a porous material that allows water vapor to enter the home via the foundation and walls. The water vapor will cause a big problem with more sensitive types of flooring, such as hardwood.
If humidity is an issue, best to look into a good dehumidifier and air purification system to keep your basement dry and safe from mold and mildew.
Uneven Flooring
Uneven flooring is another challenge faced by most homeowners. The best solution to this problem is to make use of self-leveling cement on the uneven floor to create an even surface to lay the subflooring. Now you will have an even surface to lay your new flooring material.
Low Ceiling Heights
Basement ceilings tend to be low if the ceiling contains air ducts. Before you add new flooring to the basement, it is necessary to ensure there is adequate headroom. The amount of headroom required will impact the installation of your subfloor which will cost you about an inch of space.
Better to err on the side of caution and check the local building codes to make sure the basement falls in line. Consider lowering your basement to provide more headroom and make the space more comfortable.
Possible Flooding
If there has been water in your basement before, it could likely happen again. Make sure that the foundation is secure and that all leaks and cracks have been repaired. You may need to invest in a Sump Pump to re-direct water outside before it ends up in your basement.
Regardless of the type of flooring you choose to finish your new basement, make sure your basement is dry and free of moisture and future leaks. Be sure to contact a qualified waterproofing specialist. You’ll be happy you addressed these issues before investing in a new floor.
Related: Top 10 Questions To Ask Your Waterproofing Contractor
RCC Waterproofing and Foundation Repairs has been servicing Ontario customers for over 100 years. Their repairs have outlived lifetime warranties by at least two times. The company provides professionally trained sales representatives to view, assess and quote on repairs. The installers are employees of RCC and most have long term working relationships. RCC carries full insurance including WSIB coverage and HST registration.
RCC Waterproofing offers:
- A Lifetime Waterproofing Guarantee!
- 24-hour emergency services for Ontario residences
- Fully trained technical sales representatives to view, assess and quote the repair
- Over 100 years of third-generation family success both in products and services and superb warranty
- Full-service options, providing either exterior or interior repairs depending on issues, location, and structure
- A successful record of servicing over 75,000 customers
