Can you install hardwood flooring in a basement?
Posted: April 28, 2025Author – Ryan Palma Owner/CEO Sustainable Lumber Co.
Click on these links to view our extensive line of sustainable hardwood flooring, or to contact us for a pricing quote.
If you’ve been dreaming of warm, beautiful hardwood floors in your basement, you’re not alone. It’s a classic look that can totally transform a space. But can it actually work down there, whether you’re eyeing solid hardwood or engineered hardwood? The short answer is yes, but there is some things to consider. Here is what you need to know to make it happen without regretting it later.
Solid Hardwood:
Solid hardwood is the real deal, 100% natural wood, full of character. However it is more susceptible to moisture and temperature swings, which basements are famous for. If your basement is below grade (partly or fully underground), humidity can creep up and make solid hardwood expand, shrink, or even warp over time.
That doesn’t mean it’s a no-go. With the right setup, solid hardwood can perform just fine in a basement. You’ll need a well sealed basement with good ventilation to keep things stable. A moisture barrier, like a subfloor, vapor barrier, or full trowel mastic glue, is a non-negotiable. A dehumidifier to keep humidity between 30-50% is also a very good idea. If your basement leans more to a cold uninviting environment rather than a warm comfortable space, solid hardwood may not be the best choice. However, if it’s situated above grade or you’ve effectively managed moisture levels, solid hardwood could prove to be an exceptional option.
Engineered Hardwood:
Engineered hardwood is an ideal hardwood flooring solution for basement environments. It features a stable plywood core overlaid with a real hardwood veneer, offering an authentic aesthetic while maintaining exceptional stability in fluctuating humidity conditions. This durability renders it particularly well suited for below grade installations. The product can be installed using a floating floor method, where planks interlock over a vapor barrier underlayment, or be glued directly to the concrete slab with a full trowel mastic glue, providing the concrete is sufficiently dry.
Prior to installation, it is critical to assess the moisture content of the concrete. A calcium chloride test is recommended, with most manufacturers specifying a moisture level below 4% as acceptable. Neglecting this precaution may result in issues such as warping, buckling, or possible mold. In addition to its adaptability and strength, engineered hardwood is widely regarded as the premier choice for the majority of basement installations wanting hardwood flooring.
Key Tips for Both Types:
Whether you choose solid or Engineered, a few rules apply:
No damp slabs allowed – If your basement’s concrete is wet or unsealed, you must get the moisture content under 4%
Acclimatize the wood – Let your flooring sit in the basement for 7-10 days before installation so it adjusts to the environment.
Watch for water – If your basement is susceptible to water damage, hardwood probably isn’t the right choice, you may want to consider luxury vinyl plank instead. It mimics wood but is generally water resistant.
So, Should You Do It?
Absolutely, if your basement’s ready for it! Engineered hardwood is the safer bet for most basements, but solid hardwood can work with extra TLC. Check your space, how’s the humidity? Any leaks? Either way, with the right prep, you’ll be enjoying your gorgeous wood floors in no time.
Contact us:
Our knowledgeable and educated staff is here to answer any additional questions you may have. Please call us today for a free quote: Ph# 406.642.7120 or click here to submit an inquiry online. We look forward to working with you on your next project!