Best Flooring Options for Your Basement in St. Catharines and Niagara

In homes throughout Ontario, St. Catharines, and the Niagara region, the basement is often transformed into comfortable and functional living space. Many families convert it into home offices, gyms, playrooms, or guest suites. Some even create a private area for older children or rent it out as a separate unit.

Because basements are located below ground level, they naturally retain more moisture. As a result, choosing the right flooring is essential for long-term durability, comfort, and water resistance.

At RusCan Flooring Inc in St. Catharines, we frequently hear the same question from homeowners:
What type of flooring is best for a basement?

1. Vinyl Planks (Luxury Vinyl Planks / LVP) – A Leading Choice for Ontario Basements

Without a doubt, vinyl planks are one of the most popular and practical choices for basement renovations in Niagara and St. Catharines.
There are several reasons why they’re in high demand:

• To start, they are 100% waterproof.

• Moreover, they beautifully replicate the look of natural wood or stone.

• In addition, they resist scratches, stains, and everyday wear.

• The surface is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep.

• Finally, vinyl planks perform extremely well in humid conditions.

Thanks to these benefits, more and more Ontario homeowners are selecting LVP for their basement upgrades.

Explore our selection of Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP).

2. Laminate Flooring in Basements – Choose with Caution

Laminate is stylish and cost-effective, but it doesn’t always handle moisture well. Even water-resistant options may swell or warp in the event of flooding.
However, if you still want laminate in your basement, consider a waterproof-rated product and make sure to use a high-quality underlay with a moisture barrier.

Learn more about our Laminate Flooring Options.

3. Carpet in Basements: A Comfortable Yet Risky Option

Carpet flooring adds warmth, softness, and sound insulation. It is especially appealing in bedrooms, play areas, and home theatres.
However, it also comes with some challenges:

• Moisture can lead to mould or mildew.

• Cleaning and drying wet carpet is difficult.

• It can trap odours in case of water damage.

Nevertheless, for dry, finished basements with no water risk, carpet may still be a cozy and affordable option.

See more materials on our Flooring Categories Page.

4. Tile Flooring – Ideal for Laundry and Utility Rooms

Ceramic or porcelain tile is another basement flooring option that’s highly resistant to water. It’s perfect for laundry rooms or utility spaces.
That said, tile can feel cold underfoot. For improved comfort, many homeowners pair tile with radiant floor heating systems.

For most homeowners in St. Catharines, Niagara, and across Ontario, vinyl planks offer the perfect balance of waterproof protection, visual appeal, and low maintenance. They’re durable, stylish, and built to perform in below-grade environments.

Visit RusCan Flooring Inc to view samples in person and receive expert guidance on selecting the best basement flooring for your home.

RusCan Flooring Inc
Your Style. Your Character. Your Choice.
188 Bunting Rd. unit 12, St. Catharines ON L2M 3Y1
905-938-3503
www.ruscanfloor.com