Finished Basement Bathrooms

What to Do With Your Basement Bathroom Floor

Installing a basement bathroom is an excellent way to get a lot more out of your home and add value without having to expand the exterior size of your home or do a really major remodel.  However, there’s a big difference between a basement bathroom that’s done well and one that’s not.  If you’ve ever been in a home where the basement space is dark, cold, and generally uncomfortable, you know just how important it is to make sure that your bathroom remodel is done in such a way as to result in a pleasant, functional space.  One thing to take into account during this kind of remodel is your basement bathroom floor.

The floor in most basements is poured concrete.  Depending on the level of finishing in your basement, it might be painted, or it may have been left unfinished.  Some people also carpet their basements.  This can make the room feel warmer and more inviting, but it’s also a material that’s subject to damage from moisture.  A basement that’s carpeted must be one that’s completely proof against leaks.  If it rains heavily and water enters the basement, your carpeting could be seriously damaged.

Since the bathroom is also a moist area, carpeting should be avoided.  In basements where the existing floor is carpeted, this covering should be removed.  There’s a good chance that you’ll have to remove and reinstall at least part of your basement bathroom floor to get the plumbing in, anyway.  This will result in an entirely or mostly new concrete floor.  Some people leave the flooring in their basement bathrooms in this state, but it’s not the best choice.  A bare concrete floor will make your bathroom space feel uninviting and even dirty – no matter how often you clean it.

To avoid this, think about installing tile – either vinyl or ceramic.  These durable materials allow you to have a smooth, attractive floor without worry about water damage.  The exact material you prefer will depend on your budget, your basement conditions, and the look you’re trying to get.  It’s generally wise to avoid dark colors in a basement bathroom, since these spaces already have special lighting requirements.  A basement bathroom with too much dark tile could feel overwhelming and closed in – avoid that cavernous feeling and use dark or strong colors as accent elements, not major colors.

The majority of bathroom spaces in basements are small – seven to ten feet across.  That means you’re going to have to think about logistical considerations for your basement bathroom floor, too.  Make sure that the flooring you choose is one that’s easy to maintain in a space this small.  You’ll be working under different circumstances than you would in a bathroom that’s above ground, and it’s important to make sure that you won’t find yourself on your knees in a corner, trying to remove mildew stains.  Proper planning can prevent this.

The basement bathroom floor isn’t the most important part of your remodel, but it’s one you shouldn’t forget about.  What you do with your floor could make a big difference in whether your space is pleasant and welcoming, or a room no one wants to be in.  So, take a little time and think about what to do with it – you’ll be glad you did in the long run.

About the Author

Thomas Johnsen is the Author and Leading Expert on Basement Bathroom Floors and the creator of the publication Basement Bathroom Floor. Visit the site now to find the easy-to-understand step-by-step guides on basement bathroom construction available online today.

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