A Flooring Guide for Springfield, MA Homes: Older Houses, Basements and Rentals

Many older Springfield homes have plank subfloors under several layers of later flooring. Floors may slope between rooms after a century of settling. A floating floor like vinyl plank or laminate can follow gentle slopes, but dips and humps need to be flattened first. Tile needs the stiffest base of all.

If you own a multi-family, choosing one durable floor for every unit makes maintenance and turnovers simpler.

Springfield basements can take on moisture in spring. Vinyl plank is usually the safest finished floor below grade, and it is worth checking the slab for moisture before installing anything. Avoid solid hardwood in basements.

Porcelain tile and vinyl plank are the common choices. Porcelain lasts the longest and handles water and heat well. Vinyl is warmer, softer and faster to install.

Laminate, vinyl plank and hardwood strip all work. If you have original hardwood under carpet, it may be worth refinishing rather than covering.

Start with photos of each room and the floor at a doorway, where you can see the layers. Measure roughly, and think about whether you want trim, doors and paint done in the same project. PG Solutions is based in Springfield, so we can usually come by quickly for a free estimate.