Ways to save money on basement flooring

Finishing your basement involves a lot of steps: waterproofing, framing, drywalling, lighting, plumbing (if needed), flooring, furnishings. All those steps add up, both in terms of energy and funds (especially if you get expensive surprises along the way!). If you find those costs are adding up OR if you’re looking for ways to stretch those budget dollars, use these tips to save money on one key part of your basement project: flooring.

Invest in carpet remnants.

Carpet is one of the most common choices for basement flooring; it’s soft, affordable, and comes in a variety of piles and colors. Carpet also comes with a low-cost option: carpet remnants. Carpet remnants are what’s left of a roll of carpet and are usually sold at a discount at your local flooring store. The only draw back is that remnants usually are smaller and fit only in smaller rooms. However, carpet remnants are still perfect for smaller bedrooms, craft rooms, offices, or any other basement space. Ask your local flooring pros what size remnants they have available that fit in your basement.

Buy a DIY floor.

If you want to save on labor costs (and feel fairly handy), choose a flooring that you can install yourself. Wood floors should not be installed in basements (here’s why wood floors and basements should not mix), but engineered wood and luxury vinyl tile can be installed as a floating floor. Head into your local flooring store to ask them to show you DIY floor samples you can install yourself and fit your budget.

Look into carpet tiles.

Carpet tiles offer some of the same benefits of carpet, but with a do-it-yourself option. Carpet tiles are not installed with a padding which makes it less complicated than carpet installation. Another benefit of carpet tiles is that if one is damaged or stained, it can be replaced with another carpet tile. Carpet tiles come in a variety of colors and patterns, giving you plenty of options for a custom, unique flooring design. If you want to save money on more than installation, head into a local flooring store and ask about a discount for a volume purchase.

Waterproof, waterproof, waterproof.

When you finally complete a basement installation, it’s an accomplishment—especially if you finish under budget. Don’t expose yourself—or your budget—to the added expense of replacing the floor. Make sure your waterproofing job is complete. If you have any doubts, install a floor that is not easily damaged by flooding: vinyl (we’ve even seen vinyl flooring survive being submerged under flood waters in a basement). Ask your flooring salesperson to recommend vinyl floors that can hold up to water and look great, then sit back and enjoy your finished basement (done under budget!).