Wet Basement Flooring Options: Tiles With A Vapor Barrier
Related Product: Max Tile Raised Floor Tile 5/8 Inch x 1x1 Ft.
Solutions to basement moisture may be necessary because of various factors, including floods, roof runoff, condensation, and permeation.
Most basement foundations are made of concrete. While highly durable and readily available, concrete does have flaws. One of which is its porous nature. Concrete allows water vapor to permeate through it, which becomes especially troubling as it ages and begins to crack.
The Problem With Basement Moisture
Hardwood and fiberboard are generally discouraged as a basement flooring options as they will absorb moisture, expand, warp and rot. They can also harbor mold and mildew, creating a hazardous environment for your home and family, tainting air quality and possibly causing structural damage. Flooring made with organic materials will need to be replaced in the event of flooding or persistent moisture.Keep in mind that just because a flooring material may be waterproof, it doesn't necessarily mean that it is one of the best wet basement flooring options. Some waterproof basement flooring may not be damaged by water or moisture but may trap water underneath the floor if not installed correctly. This can create the same mold and mildew issues as wood and carpeting.
Wet Basement Floor Solutions
There are several methods of battling the problem of basement moisture, including landscaping, creating vapor barriers, and installing raised floor tiles with a vapor barrier. While proper landscaping can direct rainwater away from your house, it doesn't always solve the problem of water vapor. In extreme cases, such as flooding, a sump pump may be a necessity. Vapor barriers typically involve sealing your concrete walls and/or floor with coatings of paint or adhesives. It can also involve large sheets of felt or plastic but floor tiles with vapor barrier properties are a much simpler solution.

Why Raised Flooring for Wet Basements?
Raised basement flooring with a built-in vapor barrier prevents moisture from becoming trapped by creating a gap between your flooring and the concrete. Air flows under the floor, allowing the moisture to dissipate without having to remove your flooring at each occurrence of moisture buildup. Who has the time to check for trapped moisture on a regular basis?
Note: Waterproof does not mean Watertight. Interlocking raised floor tiles will have seams; if water is on top of the tiles, water may leak through the seams.
Raised Floor Tiles for Use in Damp Basements
Basement Carpet Tiles With Waterproof Base - Family Room & Bedrooms

PVC Raised Tiles - Den or Man Cave Floor

Max Tiles - Basement Dance and Fitness Area Floor Tiles

Flexible Interlocking Basement Floor Tiles for Kids Play Areas

StayLock Tiles - Basement Workshop Flooring

Drainage Tiles - Basement Bathroom Flooring

Drainage Tiles - Covering Your Dirt Floor

To install waterproof basement flooring over a dirt floor, you'll most likely want some sort of plastic perforated playground tile such as StayLock Perforated Tiles or Ergo Matta perforated tiles. These non-absorbent raised basement flooring tiles with built-in vapor barrier tiles are designed for outdoor use and are resistant to mold and mildew. They also offer fall protection that would make them fit for a basement play area. Perforated plastic tiles are flexible and interlock, allowing them to be placed on slightly uneven surfaces and prevent separation.
Find Wet Basement Flooring Solutions at Greatmats
Note: Foam and rubber basement flooring is also available, but may not be the best flooring for basements with water issues as most of these options sit flat against the existing flooring and can trap moisture.Now that you know what tools are available, go ahead and create a basement space you'll love. You'll be glad you did. Reach out to our knowledgeable flooring experts if you have any questions about the best solution for your space.