Real Hardwood Flooring in Your Basement

Yes you can install real hardwood in your basement but it needs to be an engineered hardwood product. Engineered hardwood construction is similar to that of plywood where several layers of wood are fused together with the grain of each ply going 90 degrees of each other. This construction stabilizes the product so that it does not expand and contract like a solid wood products.

Please note that even engineered products should not be installed in an area where moisture is a problem. You must correct any moisture problems first. To install your engineered product with an adhesive the slab must be clean and level. You may also choose one of the new edge locking systems now offered with engineered hardwood products. This is particularly nice for you do-it-yourselfers, as these products do not require as much subfloor preparation.

Note that these engineered products can also be used for installations on slabs poured directly on-grade. As with the basement, check for any signs of moisture.