I'm getting mixed messages from everyone I discuss this topic with. I'm in the middle of remodeling my family room which has a concrete slab below grade, but the ceilings are above grade. I have a basement on the other side of the house and a short flight down from the family room where the sump pump resides.

With a vapor barrier and fur strips, can I install a hardwood floor? Some contractors tell me to stay away and protect my investment. Is my only choice laminate flooring?

Looking for the real truth......

i'd be hesitant to install a hard wood floor in a basement. the moisture in the air alone would be a killer. it's an expensive risk, whereas if you used a laminate floor, if anything went wrong, ie: flooded basement, etc it's not an expensive loss.

the laminate would still look good if you bought the right stuff.

I'd be leary from what you describe. I never lost money on a job I didn't do.