LESLIE: Marty in Michigan has a flooding situation going on. Tell us about the problem.
MARTY: Well, we have an unfinished basement and on occasion, like July 3rd (Leslie chuckles) when the sump pump and the power went out …
TOM: That’s a bad day. (chuckles)
MARTY: … and we had a lot of water – as everyone will remember – we had a flooded basement. It’s not coming up through the floor; it comes up through the crock (ph).
TOM: Did you have heavy rain back then?
MARTY: It was horrendous.
TOM: Alright, good news. It’s always good news when it rains and you get a flood. The reason that’s good news is because that’s an easy one to fix, Marty. I can tell you right now, without even seeing your house, that that water is being caused by two things. Number one, there’s a problem with your gutter system. Do you have a gutter system?
MARTY: We have added gutters.
TOM: You didn’t have it back in July.
MARTY: We’re not trying to solve the water problem. We’re trying to – we want to just – your best recommendation for the type of floor. We’re leading towards the laminate floor right now.
TOM: Oh, OK. So the water problem has been resolved?
MARTY: Yes, I mean you can’t – nothing can save you from the kind of rain we had on July 3rd.
TOM: But did you have those gutters back then?
MARTY: Yeah, the gutter system was done then. We have spent thousands of dollars in landscaping, extra French drains, extra downspouts, diverting the water from one part of the roof …
TOM: Alright, so it sounds like you’re on top of that.
In terms of the flooring, yes, laminate floor is an excellent choice for a basement; highly water-resistant, very durable.
LESLIE: Easy to install, can look like anything and I think it gives a basement a warm, finished feeling. You know tile, of course, is another great option but tile, depending on the type you choose, can look and feel cold and if you’re trying to create a nice, finished space I think laminate is the best choice.
MARTY: Terrific. That’s what we’re leaning toward. We’re just looking for the expertise of you guys.
TOM: Alright, Marty. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
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