How to Plan for Your Big Basement Remodel?
Any large home renovation always brings a sense of excitement and anticipation as you imagine yourself in a new space. Basement remodels are a great way to add extra space to your home and make use of previously unwanted space.
However, if you want to get the most out of your basement space, it’s vital to understand that it’s one of the more complex home renovation projects you can do. There are unique challenges to a basement remodel, and simply forging ahead without a plan can end in disaster.
So, before you rush out to get the furniture for your new living area, here are some guidelines to help you get the most out of the project.
Consider Your Needs
- Family room
- Extra bedroom for guests
- Library
- Office
- Hobby or gaming area
- Gym
- Movie room
- Bar
- Kids play area
- Dedicated storage space
Specific Basement Remodel Challenges
When you start looking for contractors, be sure to find someone with basement remodel experience. Basements have many unique challenges, and if your contractor is unprepared, you may end up going over time and budget.
Require Specialist Fasteners
Basement walls often consist of cement, bricks, or concrete building blocks. These materials require special fasteners like nails and screws, and the ones traditionally used for drywall won’t work. If you try to use traditional fasteners, you may find that they pull out very easily, making for a very frustrating construction job.
Water Ingress
The main concern with any basement remodel is the presence of water. Most basements sit below the water table, which means that there’s a constant flow of water into the area. It may not be bad enough to need a sump pump, but you’ll quickly notice that the basement is damper and colder than the rest of your home.
High humidity can cause a lot of problems, including mold growth and structural instability. The problem is more serious if you’re using the space as dedicated storage or a library since moisture can be devastating to paper and other organic products.
A good contractor will consider each basement remodel separately. At the very least, you should install a vapor barrier that prevents moisture from entering through the floors and walls. If necessary, we’ll discuss more intensive options to keep your basement dry and comfortable.
Wall Covering Installation
Many basement walls are bare and unfinished. Unlike the walls in the main home, they tend to be wavy and filled with pores, cracks, and plenty of texture. Installing a wall covering this surface will only lead to frustration as the covering will warp to conform to the basement wall.
It’s vital to have a preparation step before putting up wall covering. We often use wooden slats or metal strips to create a perfectly even layer for the final wall covering.
Adding Light and Warmth
Basements are generally cold and damp. Good basement designs rely on multiple light sources to create a light and airy feeling in the living area. Combined with smart water management techniques, you’ll often mistake the finished basement for a room in your upstairs home!
Advantages of a High-Quality Basement Remodel
Taking the time to do a proper basement remodel can have many more advantages than just having extra living space. Here are some of the perks that you can enjoy with your newly finished, modern basement.
Save on Your Power Bill
Higher Home Value
Extra rooms are always a good selling point. A high-quality basement remodel can add a lot of value and interest to your home while attracting many more interested buyers.
Protect Your Home Against Water Damage
If the main source of water ingress is from your basement, then the waterproofing will have a dramatic difference on the rest of your home.
Work with the Best
A basement remodel can convert your basement space into a usable area that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Make sure to work with the professionals, like our team from Marvelous Basements and Remodeling. Get in touch to schedule a consultation today!
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