What to know about “below-grade” flooring options

What to know about “below-grade” flooring options


Below grade is any ground-level space, often referred to as basements. They typically have a concrete floor, but you may want to remodel it with new floors to make it more visually appealing.

All about the subfloor

The first thing you should do is check the concrete and repair it if necessary. Cracks (often no wider than a dime!) can cause the floor to shift up or down. They can also make the floor vulnerable to wet weather.

You can paint, use epoxy or install flooring like tile or rubber directly over the concrete. Know, however, that it will result in a cold, hard floor.

Our flooring company can advise you further if you would instead install a subfloor.

Engineered hardwood: this wood can be installed in basements!


Engineered and solid hardwood look similar. Engineered, however, has a construction that makes it stable; it is installed over any subfloor.

Other floorings to consider include:


1. Luxury vinyl plank or tile. It's stylish, affordable, durable, completely waterproof, and easy to keep clean. These two forms offer the look of wood, stone, or ceramic tile.

Feel free to visit our flooring store to see gorgeous wood, stone, and tile designs. They come from brands like Mannington, Engineered Floors, and more.

2. Waterproof flooring. This is an advanced version of luxury vinyl with all the same style, combined with the highest level of moisture protection. In addition, SPC (stone plastic composite) and WPC (wood plastic composite) cores won't peel or ripple.

3. Rigid core plank. This is LVP with an SPC core.

Premier flooring source in Utah

At Phil's Fine Flooring, our reputation is our business. So you can be sure of getting the best new floors, service, and installation.

Visit our showroom, and you'll see the difference. We're in Murray, UT, serving Taylorsville, Millcreek, Holladay, and Midvale.