What is the Best Flooring to Put on a Concrete Floor?

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There are plenty of flooring options available for the home. However, it takes more than aesthetics to settle on the right flooring for substrates specifically concrete ones. Apart from matching the existing décor and interiors perfectly, the concrete flooring option should be chosen according to its function as well. 

You also need to get the best flooring option for concrete in order to boost the value of your home. Ideal concrete slab flooring should be sustainable regardless of weather conditions. There are several options that go well with covering concrete substrates and we will discuss its advantages and application tips on this article. 

Best Flooring for Concrete Floors

  1. Wood

Wood plank flooring is reliable and aesthetically outstanding, one of the easiest picks when it comes to flooring options since it will never go out of style. However, concrete substrates are susceptible to moisture thus. If you choose this option, make sure that you first lay out sleepers on the floor. These are wood segments which are typically 2 x 4 inches in size. 

These sleepers should be centered and arranged 16 inches apart. Cover them with plastic and arrange the plywood next. Once done, place roofing felt on it and lastly, mount the wood flooring. Wood floorings can be pasted on or nailed to the current substrate, too. 

There is also another wooden flooring option which is considered to be more substantial and faster to process called engineered wood. Engineered wood is composed of many quantities of wood and plywood which are arranged then wrapped up jointly. This results into a durable, hardwearing floorboard that is highly resistant to dampness and high humidity. 

In addition, engineered wood floorings are pasted straight on concrete. There are also engineered wood flooring which include grooved and tongued edges so the flooring grips without hitches during installation. Engineered wood comes in a good range of kinds and finishes as well to accommodate varying tastes and preferences better. 

  1. Laminate

Laminate flooring is typically composed of a center made from wood fiber with a layer of paper coating on top, all sealed together. The wooden appearance of its top layer is in fact a photographic image of wood which was pasted on the plank. 

Laminate flooring technology has improved immensely and they have taken on a more genuine wooden appearance. Laminate flooring are usually not fastened on the floor underneath them. This type of floor can be positioned straight on concrete slabs or substrates. It is also affordable and can be laid out without the help of professionals as long as you are familiar with the process. 

  1. Tiles

There are three types of tiles which are good for concrete substrates; ceramic, vinyl and rubber. Tile flooring is recommended specifically for kitchens and the bath. However, mounting this type of flooring can be a complicated process and usually entails professional help. The concrete should be level enough then applied with a concrete sealer before installation. 

Here are the main tile types with their descriptions

  • Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are waterproof thus they work well in places like the bath and the kitchen. However, this type of flooring does not have insulation. The concrete slab should also be free from sizable cracks, even and stable enough so the ceramic tiles can be laid out directly over the substrate. 

  • Vinyl

Vinyl tiles are ideal for uneven concrete slab foundations. You can mount it on the slab with or without a felt backing. One of the benefits of considering this kind of tile is it comes in a nice selection of patterns and colors so you can easily get one that best fits the room’s décor. 

  • Rubber 

Rubber ones meanwhile are synthetic, relatively waterproof, soft and great to walk on. It is also affordable and a breeze to install since you only need to lock each piece together. 

  1. Carpet

Even though concrete substrates are prone to moisture, carpet still makes for reliable covering as long as the carpet is made from breathable, synthetic material. This type of flooring also adds a warmer feel to your living space. Carpet installation requires the same procedures as wood plank flooring. 

However, carpet flooring also requires the use of down padding—this is a preventive measure to safeguard the carpet from unnecessary elements like mold growth and musty odors. 

All of the flooring options mentioned in this article indeed suit and provide advantages to concrete slab foundations. These options not only add functionality and comfort to your living space, it also enhances its appearance. 

The complexities of installation among these flooring options vary—some can be done through DIY means while some require professional assistance. If you want to guarantee the best flooring for your concrete substrate, do not hesitate to ask for the help of professionals. They get the job done and it’s always worth every buck spent on the procedure. 

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