Basement renovations are popular remodeling options. Your basement can provide you with additional usable space without the need to build out or up. Here are five useful tips for renovating your basement.
1. Check All Areas of the Basement for Moisture
The first thing you should do when you decide to renovate your basement is to check for any moisture. Remember to do this periodically throughout the project. You need to check for moisture because any dampness can compromise the safety and structural integrity of your basement and the rest of your home. Moisture can cause mold growth and destabilize your home’s foundation, risking your health and safety. It can also cause your basement area to become cold and damp, which makes the space uncomfortable.
2. Think About What You Want from the Space
Your basement can provide you with additional living space in your home. Ultimately, the way you renovate it will depend on what you want to use the space for. There are several popular ways to remodel your basement space, including playrooms for children, office space, home gyms, living areas, hosting spaces, entertainment centers and separate apartments. Before you start planning your basement renovation, consider what you need the additional space for. If you’re torn between options, consider which one would benefit you the most.
3. Remember To Have the Space Inspected
Before you can start your project, you need to determine whether you need any building permits. This will depend on the type of renovation you’re doing and the complexity of the project. Some complex renovations may require inspections at certain stages during the project. No matter the size or type of your basement remodeling project, you will likely need to have it inspected after you complete the project. Typically, a city inspector will do this for you. Inspections are important because they ensure the efficacy and safety of your remodeled space.
4. Develop a Remodeling Plan
No matter what your renovation project entails, you should develop a plan before you begin working. Your plan can be as detailed or simple as you want, but it should include your goals and the project’s scope, your overall budget, how you plan to meet your goals and why you want to renovate your space. Basement remodeling projects can be more complex than other types of renovations because there are more factors to consider. You need to note whether you detected moisture and how you plan to take care of it, such as floor and wall sealants. If you’re working with a contractor, collaborate with him or her on your remodeling plan and check in with him or her throughout the project to make sure you’re still following the plan.
5. Consider the Size of Your Basement
The most important size consideration in a basement renovation is the height of your basement. Its height and overall size may impact what you can successfully use the space for. For example, home gyms require higher ceilings. If your basement has a ceiling lower than eight feet, then you may not be able to turn your basement into an exercise space. By contrast, low ceilings are unlikely to affect a home office or entertainment center. You should also consider your basement’s square footage. For the most part, basements have the same square footage as the first floor of your home. However, some basements may be smaller or larger. In some cases, basements include crawl spaces, which are more difficult to transform into usable spaces.
When you remodel your basement, consider hiring contractors. Whether you coordinate with a general contractor or hire one or more specialists, such as plumbers or electricians, you can benefit from their expertise.