5 Things to Consider Before Renovating Your Basement
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Many basements serve solely as glorified storage rooms; with proper planning and renovation, however, the space can become an inviting recreation room for children, an uncluttered office or your own Netflix-and-chill zone. Just be sure that your plans take into account resale value as well as long-lasting fixtures to withstand everyday life’s wear and tear. For expert guidance оn transforming your basement, consider contacting Penguin Basements renovations.
BUILDING PERMITS
Transforming your basement into a finished space is a massive task that requires strategic planning. Home improvement shows may set unrealistic expectations about how quickly renovation can be accomplished; to avoid disappointment and meet deadlines effectively, start with a clear plan backed by your Design-Build contractor.
Understand any building codes that impact your project, such as boiler room and laundry framing requirements. Securing permits prevent contractors from violating codes that could leave you with an unsafe basement remodel.
Prior to beginning your remodel project, inspect your basement for cracks, leakage or plumbing or electrical problems that could cost money down the line. Fixing these problems early could save both time and money in the long run.
CREATE DESIGN PLAN
As remote work becomes more commonplace, more homeowners are seeking a productive workspace in which to conduct their business. A finished basement provides the ideal setting and adds significant value at a fraction of the cost of adding an addition.
An accurate design plan is key when undertaking any renovation project, as this will enable you to understand what can be achieved within your budget. Furthermore, creating such an outline will prevent unexpected expenses from cropping up later in the process.
At this stage, it’s crucial to take note of the height of your ceiling. Older homes don’t always meet fire code standards for egress windows; thus if you intend on creating bedroom spaces you may require raising it so as to accommodate.
WATERPROOFING
Waterproofing your new basement is essential to creating the functional space you envision for yourself and protecting its investment, giving you peace of mind during heavy rainfall or flooding events knowing your space is secure against one of nature’s most damaging forces.
Mold and mildew release spores that can be inhaled, leading to health issues like asthma attacks, sinus issues and headaches. Waterproofing will stop these spores from entering your house, protecting both you and your family’s health while creating an environmentally healthy living space.
Other ways you can help reduce moisture in your home include making sure gutters and downspout extensions are clear of obstruction, and installing extensions to direct runoff away from the foundation. Also consider keeping water-hungry vegetation such as flowers and shrubs away from its foundation.
LIGHTING OPTIONS
Lighting options are an integral component of a successful basement renovation. Ambient lighting helps set the mood, whether that means creating an intimate nook for relaxation or lively gathering space. Dimmable lights add flexibility by allowing you to adjust their brightness depending on activity or time of day.
Lighting adds visual interest and texture to a space, and decorative lights can highlight features like artwork, shelves or walls with texture. Accent lighting can help reduce eye strain when reading or working in particular tasks.
Skylights and windows provide natural lighting to a space, reducing energy costs while increasing comfort levels. Insulation should also be considered, as it will increase your home’s energy efficiency and lower utility bills; options range from fiberglass batts to spray foam insulation depending on your individual requirements.
FLOORING OPTIONS
How you plan to use your space will determine what kind of flooring to choose; recreation rooms and home gyms, for instance, often need flooring that can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Carpet tiles make an excellent addition to basement floors as they can be laid in virtually limitless patterns and come in an extensive selection of colors and styles to complement any design aesthetic.
Laminate flooring can be installed in a basement with proper subflooring and foam underlayment to protect against moisture rising from concrete slab below, while carpet offers comfortable warmth but must dry quickly after becoming wet in order to prevent mold growth and remove stains easily.