Choosing the right floor covering is not as easy as it sounds. There are various options, each with a different price tag. Vinyl planks and laminate floors have a few things in common. Both are relatively economical, durable, and come in a variety of styles and colors, but which one is better? 

Laminate Flooring

Laminate floors are very similar to vinyl planks, but there are some notable differences. Laminates are extremely durable, easy to install, keep colors vibrant for a long time, and come in a variety of colors and styles. However, it has some drawbacks. It is not waterproof and should be cleaned with a laminate cleaner. Although fairly durable, it still tends to wear out faster than vinyl plates.

Vinyl Plank

In addition to laminate, vinyl planks are an awesome alternative to more expensive and high-maintenance hardwood floors. Vinyl planks are extremely long-lasting, waterproof, easy to clean, easy to install, and come in many styles and colors. Objectively speaking, vinyl boards have fewer defects than laminates, but they are not necessarily better than laminates.

So Which is Better?

Neither vinyl flooring nor laminate flooring is necessarily better than the other. Each has its pros and cons, but keep in mind that neither flooring is a bad choice. You can objectively evaluate the pros and cons, but ultimately the choice should be based on your personal tastes and preferences.

Does your basement feel tiny, dark, or old-fashioned? These are common problems in basements that can be easily altered with a few space-maximizing moves. We would provide you with 3 ways you can optimize your Maryland basement remodeling. It's all about the details! We can help transform a small, drab space into the gorgeous finished basement of your dreams!

Add Submerged Lighting

The right lighting can dramatically change the feel of your basement. If you currently have suspended lighting throughout your basement, consider taking out these fixtures and replacing them with recessed or submerged lighting. Recessed lights make the ceiling appear taller and make the room appear larger and more open. Wall-mounted lighting is an added option to think about in small spaces as it doesn't take up valuable head or floor space.

Keep Colors Bright and Light

Be on guard about the color of walls, floors, or carpets. Brighter, lighter colors, and natural-colored hardwood or concrete floors can make open a space and add a shiny and airy feel to a space.Use colorful rugs to divide floor space and make the room spacious and cozy. If you have posts that are taking up valuable space in your basement, consider painting them the same color as the walls.

Put in Place Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are a great way to optimize small spaces while still adding visual interest. It's a great option for maximizing space in your basement as it slides against the wall instead of opening into a limited space.

Every homeowner realizes at some point they need more space. Where can you get more space? You can go outward by extending your house and spend a lot of money to do it or you can look inward by optimizing your house.

If you own a house with a basement, that's available space. For the majority homeowners,  the basement is little more than a place to store trash and essential services like water heating. There's no reason you can't clean up your trash and create a cozy family room, media room, extra bedroom, gym, or whatever you want.

However, you will first need to consider some basics before transforming your basement into a livable space.

Get Humidity Under Control

Cellar finishes are all about humidity. You can build practically anything in your basement if you can handle the humidity well. Elements that don't traditionally belong in basements, such as carpets, can easily be added. 

If the humidity is high, it may not even be possible to finish the basement. Moisture is a factor that makes most basements unsuitable. Minor moisture issues can be treated with water lock paint. For this purpose, cracks can be sealed with special joints. A dehumidifier takes in the moisture-laden air and collects much of it before it condenses on the walls and ceilings of the basement.

Plan Heating and Cooling Ahead of Time

In some homes, heating and cooling work alone very well. The basement is underground, so it stays cool in the summer while it stays warm in winter because the soil is a good insulator.

However, most home basements require some form of additional heating and cooling system. Electric baseboard heaters are a great way to provide heat quickly. Also consider that existing HVAC ducts may be routed through the floor joists above and used in the basement space.