If you’re seeking a practical flooring material for your basement, you could have very good reasons to consider rubber flooring.
Such characteristics as this material’s moisture resistance, durability, and comfort have helped drive the popularity of rubber flooring for the basement.
In this article, we will take a closer look at rubber flooring, its pros and cons, and key tips. We will also explain why you should hire professionals to install rubber flooring, instead of attempting the “DIY” approach.
Why Choose Rubber Flooring for Basements?
Various advantages help make rubber flooring a compelling option for basement spaces:
Moisture Resistance:
The non-porous nature of rubber flooring makes it highly resistant to water. This can make it an excellent choice for basements that are prone to moisture.
Durability and Longevity:
As you might expect from a flooring material that is frequently made from recycled tyre rubber, rubber flooring is extremely tough. It is strong enough to endure heavy traffic, with its resistance to wear enabling it to last for decades if it is well looked-after.
Comfort and Insulation:
The natural elasticity of rubber flooring provides a comfortable cushioning effect underfoot. It also has inherent low thermal conductivity, and a molecular structure that limits heat transfer. This means it can provide insulation against cold concrete floors.
Easy Maintenance:
The practical credentials of rubber flooring for the basement are enhanced by its minimal upkeep requirements. Sweeping and occasional mopping with mild cleaners is sufficient to preserve its appearance and condition.
Drawbacks Of Rubber Flooring in Basements
Let’s provide a balanced view of rubber flooring for a basement by setting out some potential disadvantages of this flooring type:
Initial Cost:
The upfront cost of rubber flooring is typically higher than alternatives like vinyl or carpet. However, the longevity of rubber flooring does help offset such initial expense over time.
Odour Concerns:
You may notice a strong rubber-like smell from your rubber flooring both during and shortly after installation. This can take time to dissipate, with ventilation possibly being required.
Limited Aesthetic Options:
If you opt for rubber flooring for your basement, the design and colour choices available to you may be less varied than would be the case with other flooring materials.
Tips For Installing Rubber Flooring in Basements
Here is some practical advice on how rubber flooring can be successfully installed in a basement.
Hiring A Professional Installer:
Here at The Flooring Group, we always urge you to get professionals involved in this process instead of trying to do it the “DIY” way.
Skilled and experienced installers are able to handle this material properly. Moreover, they will know how to fit it to ensure your new basement flooring’s long-term performance.
Selecting The Right Type of Rubber Flooring:
Rubber flooring comes in a broad range of forms. By consulting with flooring professionals, you can help ensure you choose the most suitable rubber flooring type according to your basement conditions and needs.
Ensuring Proper Adhesion and Sealing:
Professional installers of rubber flooring in a basement know how to secure the flooring and seal the edges in order to maximise durability and moisture protection.
Maintaining Your Rubber Flooring:
After the installation of rubber flooring in your basement, make sure you sweep it regularly, in addition to mopping it with a mild, ph-neutral cleaner. Seek out professional guidance for more specifically tailored assistance with the maintenance of your flooring.
Is Rubber Flooring the Right Choice for Your Basement?
To summarise the rubber flooring pros and cons: this material offers impressive moisture resistance and durability, but it does cost more upfront than some alternative flooring materials, and is relatively limited in its aesthetic possibilities
The question of whether you should choose rubber flooring for your basement, will therefore depend on your particular circumstances, needs, and priorities.
If you do decide in favour of rubber flooring for your basement, make sure you have it professionally installed by experts, to ensure the best results.
To learn more about your flooring options, contact The Flooring Group today, such as by calling us on 0207 609 1234
For the latest information about The Flooring Group and our residential and commercial flooring, please visit our homepage.