Q: I have decided to remodel the basement of my 100-year-old house. I want to put a floor down but I am not sure what I should place on the concrete slab first, so that the floor will not be so cold.

Additionally, I want my walls to remain as is-that is, I want the bricks to show.

There are pipes everywhere, but I am not sure what they all go to. I would like to paint them but I am unsure what type of paint to cover them with. I am also unsure what type of paint I should use on the ceiling since I will not be putting a new ceiling in. Can you help me?

A: In addition to concrete basement floors being cold, you need to be concerned about moisture. Even if the bare concrete floor currently seems dry, covering it with plywood or hardwood could trap vapor emissions and possibly buckle or rot the real wood.

Laminate flooring works well in a basement area because most manufacturers offer a very dense and thin cushion that insulates and quiets down the laminate sound of an engineered product. Some manufacturers make foam products for laminates too.

Carpet is another good choice over a concrete basement floor because it breathes to allow moisture emissions to escape from the basement floor. It has wonderful insulating capabilities and is a great value for the dollar.
Another element to think about in regard to flooring is the cushion. A denser cushion insulates the room from the elements. The Carpet Cushion Council agrees that the weight of the cushion also prolongs the life of the carpet.

You might be able to use an acid wash on the walls; check with a brick yard or building supply yard for their advice. Some companies specialize in restoring old brick, but it may be expensive. If you can't remove the old concrete yourself, you might collect bids from both brick restoration specialists and drywall companies to decide the best way to go.

As for the paint, you should have a paint expert look at the pipes.
Good luck!

This information is brought to you by John Fuchs of Carpet Warehouse in Rancho Cordova, CA