Are you starting a new building project or looking to renovate your basement? There are many things to consider and hardwood floors should be top of mind. Although hardwood flooring is aesthetically pleasing in any space, there are many things to consider if hardwood floors are a priority for your Calgary home.
Due to the proximity of the basement to the foundation of the home, many maintenance factors pose complications. Most importantly, basements are very susceptible to water damage which could cause cupping, swelling, warping, and splitting of your hardwood floors.
When designing a new build or renovating an existing basement, avoiding moisture build-up should be your first concern when discussing flooring options. Do your due diligence, protect the foundation of your home with an adequate vapor barrier and install an exterior or interior drainage system to eliminate water seepage.
As the top hardwood flooring Calgary provider, Bull Tough will provide you with expert knowledge and guidance for your next basement project. Keep reading for some best practices when considering hardwoods floors in your basement.
Prepare Your Basement
Several components will affect your choice of flooring material in your basement. First, is the concrete slab in good condition? It should offer porous fill in the aggregate bed which allows proper drainage of groundwater. And, of course, the groundwater should be directed underground and away from your home.
Once your concrete slab has cured, the next step is installing subflooring. A vapor barrier provides an extra element to seal off the concrete slab, preventing damage. By installing the vapor barrier over the concrete slab, the vapor drive will stop water from moving upwards towards your floors, protecting them from any destruction.
Choosing Your Basement Flooring
Although hardwood flooring is a timeless choice, it is not the best option for basements. Being in close vicinity to the water heater and various piping water damage could be inevitable. However, do not get discouraged because attaining the natural wood look is still achievable with several other options.
Basement Floor Installation
Since flooring is placed on top of a concrete slab, the installation will not include your typical nailing. The floating method is most practiced, meaning it will not be nailed, glued, or otherwise permanently fixed to the surface. The floating method allows your flooring to expand towards the walls while responding to humidity and temperature changes. It will prevent buckling in a moisture-rich environment and gaps under dry conditions.
During any installation process, your basement needs to be ventilated with an adequate heating and air conditioning system. Heat will assist with drying out the concrete slab and your air conditioner will reduce moisture in the air.
Receive more in-depth knowledge from Bull Tough flooring for your next renovation or installation. Their expertise in hardwood flooring Calgary will provide knowledge based on the current environmental climate and what works best in your home. Call and speak with an expert directly at (403) 975-2579 or online today.