DIY Steps for Installing a Insulated Basement Floor

By Matt Weber

Here’s a three-fold approach to a new basement floor, including an Insulated Subfloor System, engineered cork flooring, and easy-to-install carpet squares.

A finished basement can make a great office or family room, but  by virtue of being the first living space on the foundation—and often below grade—special consideration should be given to the type of flooring used. You learned years ago in science class that heat rises, so basements are naturally cooler than the upper levels of a house. In many cases they are also completely or partially surrounded below the earth surface and sitting on a cool concrete slab, which has a tendency to transfer moisture. This story details a three-fold approach to a new basement floor, including an insulated subfloor system, engineered cork flooring, and easy-to-install carpet squares.

Choices in Basement Flooring

Three critical issues to consider when choosing a basement include; moisture, warmth and, of course, décor. Basement floor options include tile, laminate, engineered wood and others.

Make sure the slab is level.