Much like other home improvement projects, a basement renovation takes time, patience and a significant budget. Getting ready for the inevitable challenges that come with a basement remodeling project is smart, and allows you to steer through this project with confidence.
Lighting in the Basement
Good lighting creates the kind of space that beckons you downstairs. Poor lighting choices emphasize shadows and often get in the way, making this area seem cramped and uncomfortable. Look for low profile fixtures that make good use of the natural structure in your basement. Recessed ceiling fixtures are popular, as are wall sconces and certain styles of strip lighting. Avoid fixtures that focus on form to the detriment of light coverage.
Air Quality in the Basement
Plan to deal with any moisture problems before finishing the basement. Invest in waterproofing solutions that keep moisture from entering the space and have grading adjusted to eliminate future problems. Water damage creates mold and mildew, which in turns affects air quality. Avoid these problems by reducing the risk of water damage.
Design for proper ventilation as well, and have your basement renovation contractor seamlessly incorporate this new living space into the existing heating and cooling systems. Operating windows help to provide fresh air and any bathrooms installed in the basement level should include an exhaust fan venting to the exterior.
Access to the Basement
There are two ways to access your basement: stairs from the upper floors; and entrance doors that open directly into the below grade space. If your home presents only one of these options, consider how to add the other in your basement renovation. Patio doors and man doors can be created with grading changes, and often add natural light. Wider stairs also help to make this area bright and inviting, and additional staircases help to enhance traffic flow in and out of your new basement.
Storage
Use your creativity to add storage in your basement remodeling project. Many people end up storing anything and everything in the basement, but these items need a home once the basement living space is complete. Consider all available areas, including under the stairs, in awkward corners and alcoves and within closets. Built in shelving and storage furniture present affordable options for any family. With proper planning, your new basement can effectively provide more storage space than the unfinished area ever did.
Energy Efficiency
Insulation plays an important role in your basement renovation. Quality insulation reduces heat loss and may provide another stage of moisture protection. Think about the various options, including spray foam insulation, fiberglass batting, and speed board products with both structural and insulation properties.
Upgrade your windows for optimum energy efficiency as well. Check for gaps around window and door frames and be sure that your new basement space maintains or improves the efficiency found in the balance of your home.
Structural Concerns
Posts and beams are often used as structural support for a home, but they also present a challenge when you plan to finish the basement. Costs to eliminate posts by installing heavy grade structural beams can quickly swell your budget beyond reach, leaving you with little option but to live with existing obstructions.
Consider designing around them, by using furniture and decor items to mask the posts. Depending on the layout of your room and post spacing, these structural elements may be less of a problem than originally thought. Be creative and imaginative and ask your contractor for ideas on how to create livable space without eliminating these basement features.
Heating
Insulation helps to reduce heating costs in the basement, as well as creating a comfortable area for relaxation. Basement renovations may require an upgrade of your existing heating system, depending on the overall size of your home. Be sure that ductwork covers the new living space and design your new rooms with air flow and heating in mind.
Wood stoves and gas fireplaces provide other solutions for basement heating. Research local building codes to find out whether or not these heating systems are an option in your home.
Noise
Traffic noise from the upper floors may present a problem in the basement. Home theaters, playrooms and bedrooms also contribute to noise issues between the living spaces. Consider how to sound proof the basement with ceiling tiles and insulation products, providing a barrier between the upper and lower floors and helping to enhance both areas. Installation is straightforward and these products tend to add an insignificant amount to the overall basement renovation budget.
Plumbing
Concrete foundations, septic tanks and natural grading may provide plumbing challenges in your basement remodeling project. While adding a bathroom downstairs makes sense and increases your property value, this design requires careful planning.
Find out how your contractor plans to connect plumbing with the main sewer line. This may require a pump or extensive work on the foundation. Showers and tubs also provide challenges in terms of design and function. Plan to spend a good portion of your budget on this finished basement element, and take your time with design issues to ensure the space works well.
Security
Finishing the basement adds another level of living space to your home, but this space may also present an additional entrance point. Invest in commercial grade locks for any patio doors or man doors installed, and ensure the windows are installed properly and fitted with locking mechanisms for security.
Install window coverings for privacy and to keep your valuable out of sight. Also be sure that your existing security system includes the basement living space and any entrances located downstairs.
Your basement renovation will add value to your home and create a functional, comfortable space downstairs. Make the most of this home improvement by tackling these top ten basement remodeling challenges with creativity and determination. From lighting and air quality, to plumbing, heating, storage and security, each of these issues needs to be dealt with during the planning stages. Take your time and lean on the expertise of your basement renovation contractor to find the solutions.
Posted by: diana