Finishing a basement floor

Q: How should I finish my concrete basement floor? This past summer I had a flood in a finished room, and I need to replace the old carpeting now that the water problem is fixed. Do you recommend putting down DRIcore or a similar subfloor product on the concrete? I’ve heard differing opinions and I’m confused.

A: The first thing to understand is that your basement needs to prove itself dry during a wet time of the year before you go ahead with any finishing plans. The only thing worse than a disastrous basement flood is having it happen a second time. If your basement stays dry during the upcoming spring rains, then yes, I think one of the ventilated, subfloor tile products would be a good option in your case. They go down easily, they're comfortable underfoot, and they can even tolerate small amounts of moisture if wet surprises occur. The three brands I have personal experience with are DRIcore, Subflor and OvrX. The first two include a dimpled plastic layer that affords a drainage path for water. OvrX has grooved foam applied underneath for slightly better insulating properties, though this product tolerates water less well.