The Best Carpeting Types for Basements
Basement carpeting needs to have some moisture resistance to withstand mold and mildew growth. It should also be long-lasting and able to handle wear.
Is Installing a Carpet in the Basement Worth It?
If your basement isn’t prone to excess humidity, leaks, or flooding, it’s okay to install carpet. Carpet is easier to install over concrete basement floors than hardwoods or laminate and comes in a variety of styles and price points. Below we’ll cover the best basement carpeting options and brands.
Top Carpeting Options for Basements
1. Carpet Tiles
Carpet tiles are a cost-effective option and simple to install in the basement. They’re more convenient than wall-to-wall carpets because if they become damaged, you can replace a section rather than the entire carpet.
Some brands sell high-end carpet tiles with dependable moisture and stain resistance.
2. Synthetic Carpet Options
Synthetic carpet options include nylon, polyester, triexta, and polypropylene.
Synthetic carpet materials are more “breathable” and tolerate high moisture levels. They release moisture faster, reducing the chances of mold or mildew growth. Natural carpet materials like wool soak in more moisture and take longer to dry.
3. Berber-Style Carpets
Berber-style carpets for basements are affordable, durable, and easy to install. They withstand heavy foot traffic and furniture in the basement. You can choose between level-loop or patterned-loop Berber carpets. Level-loop Berber carpets have loops of the same height. Patterned Berber fibers have alternating heights.
4. Sectioned Carpets
Consider installing a sectioned carpet if your basement is prone to high moisture. Sectioned carpets are also suitable for basements split into different rooms. The carpet squares are easy to remove when a basement section is waterlogged. They’re also ideal for DIY installation.
5. Low-Pile Carpets for Basements
Low-pile basement carpets have some moisture resistance and come in a variety of styles. Unlike high-pile carpets, they take a shorter time to dry up and don’t trap allergens.
Top Basement Carpet Brands
Newton
Newton Flooring sells solution-dyed polyester and 6.6 nylon carpets. Both carpet materials are suitable for basements.
Newton’s carpets are affordable, low-VOC, and come in many colors. Aside from wall-to-wall basement carpets, the brand also has carpet tiles.
Proximity Mills
Proximity Mills has a collection of synthetic, low-VOC carpets that work for basements. Their 6.6 nylon material resists mold or mildew growth and is fade-resistant. They also have a range of luxury carpet tiles for residential basements. Depending on the fiber and type of pile, carpet prices range from $4 to $8 per square foot.
What to Look for in a Basement Carpet
There’s more to consider when buying a basement carpet than price and pattern.
Material
The main synthetic basement carpet fibers are nylon, olefin, polyester, and triexta.
- Olefin: Olefin is a reliable outdoor flooring option that doesn’t retain moisture. Also known as polypropylene, the carpet fiber is easy to clean and maintain. It sits on concrete but doesn’t handle areas that are constantly wet.
- Polyester: Polyester is one of the most expensive synthetic fiber materials. The fiber feels soft underfoot and is stain-resistant, making it ideal for basements. You can choose between ice-dyed and solution-dyed polyester carpets. If you’re looking for a more stain-resistant carpet, choose the solution-dyed one.
- Triexta: In terms of stain resistance and durability, triexta stands head-to-head with nylon. It handles moisture well and is eco-friendly. You don’t need topical treatments to get rid of stains on triexta carpets.
- Nylon: 6.6 nylon, to be exact, is the most durable carpet fiber. Nylon’s durability and breathability make it an expensive carpet fiber. It’s also one of the best synthetic carpet materials for pets and stairs. Nylon withstands high foot traffic and is among the most stain-resistant materials.
Carpet Padding
Pick a carpet padding made of polyurethane foam instead of rubber. It tends to handle moisture a lot better than other options. There are also basement carpeting options that come with an attached pad.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing your basement floor and walls helps reduce moisture issues. High amounts of dampness may damage the carpet fiber. The amount of condensation in the basement determines the right carpet fiber to buy. Vapor barriers and plywood subfloors may help make the basement floor waterproof.
Carpet Pile
Carpet pile refers to how thick or thin the carpet fibers are. High and low carpet fibers are the most common. Low-pile carpets have shorter fibers and sturdier loops. They prevent allergens from settling in your carpet and make cleaning easier. Consider low-pile carpets for basements. Their smooth surfaces allow for easy movement of heavy equipment.
The Pros and Cons of Basement Carpeting
Pros:
- Makes the space feel cozy and comfortable
- Provides solid insulation
- Handles moisture better than other carpeting options.
- Some carpets are ideal for DIY installation.
Cons:
- Exposure to basement moisture
- Dirt buildup may lead to mold growth
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ
What’s the best carpet for a concrete floor?
Olefin and nylon are the best carpet fibers for a concrete floor. Synthetic carpets made of low-pile or cut-pile fibers are ideal for the basement as they dry up faster.
Does a carpet make the basement warmer?
Yes, it will. Carpets don’t need a flat surface during installation. When combined with padding, carpets can keep the basement well insulated. Foam-board insulation is also ideal for incomplete basements.
What’s the best carpet padding for the basement?
Flat rubber padding is best for basements with high moisture levels. Rubber is a natural waterproofing solution. It prevents moisture from getting through the subfloor.
Is Carpet Padding Necessary?
If you want your carpet to last longer, installing padding is worth it. Some carpets include built-in padding. Some carpet brands void the warranty if there’s no padding underneath the carpet.