Basement – What type of flooring can be used on a concrete slab

basementflooring

I have a split ranch house in NY and the downstairs hallway and half bath / laundry room currently has vinyl tile on a concrete slab. I would like to cover the vinyl tile with a new floor.

What is the best flooring material to use in this environment?

I was originally thinking ceramic tile because the the garage enters into the hallway (dirty, wet shoes). However, I'm concerned that the tile will be too cold during the winter, so I was thinking about some type of wood flooring. However, the potential for a water problem in the bath / laundry room makes me want to avoid wood.

Best Answer

Tile floors can be installed with a radiant floor heating system such as this one

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It is imbedded in the floor below the tiles and is controllable with a wall mounted thermostat. Unless there is significant structural damage to the floor, there is no risk based on dampness. These are routinely used in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms.