Key Takeaways:
- A basement can add value to your home and provide extra living space or a place to entertain guests.
- Before beginning any work, planning carefully and getting the proper permits is essential.
- Be sure to add adequate lighting and ventilation, use appropriate flooring materials, finish the ceiling correctly, soundproof the area if necessary, and have an emergency exit plan.
A basement can be much more than just a dark, dank space in your home. In the United States, a finished basement is often considered an important part of the home, used for everything from storage to recreation. There’s no doubt that basements are an important part of US culture. They provide valuable storage space and can be a great place to relax or entertain guests. However, many homeowners don’t take full advantage of their basements. By neglecting this space, they’re missing out on a number of potential benefits.
The process of finishing a residential basement can seem daunting. Still, with careful planning, it can be a once-in-a-lifetime thing that you’ll always cherish. Finishing your basement can be a fun and rewarding experience with a little forethought and organization! Here are ten important RMS Painting & Remodeling points to consider before completing your residential basement.
Basement Remodeling: Why Should I Do It?
Have you ever thought about what you could do with your basement if it weren’t just a storage space? Basement refinishing can make that under-utilized space something your family can enjoy, like an extra living area or playroom.
No matter your plans for the extra space, a finished basement guarantees that your home’s lower level won’t go to waste. In addition to expanding your home’s functional square footage, finishing a basement can significantly increase the property’s value. Before beginning any refinishing project, proper planning is essential to achieve success. The following is what you can expect when finishing a basement.
1. Reap The Reward
A basement remodeling project might be a wise investment. Remodeling magazine conducts yearly cost versus value studies, revealing that the average return on investment for a basement refurbishment is approximately 75 cents on the dollar. Aside from financial advantages, refinishing a basement will give your house new functionality in the form of additional bedrooms, more efficient storage, and more room to entertain guests.
2. Get Creative With Your DIY Skills
There are some aspects of basement finishing that amateurs can handle. Still, it’s always best to leave plumbing and wiring to the pros. Things like framing walls, hanging drywall, and installing insulation are all doable for experienced DIYers with the right permits; be sure you know what building permits you will need before starting any work.
3. Light Sources Should Be Added
Make sure you’ve enough windows & doors for natural light when you do your basement remodeling. Seal off the rest of the dwelling from the consequent masonry dust before making any new windows or doors. Have a professional constructor review it to see whether the surrounding walls can handle the extra load before creating any new windows or doors.
4. In Stairwells, Prioritize Safety.
Stair handrails are a great way to make your unfinished basement more attractive and safer. After the construction inspector has approved the project, you should reinforce the walls supporting the stair rails and ensure they stay in place.
5. Get Rid Of Excess Moisture
Although some think a dehumidifier will fix any moisture issues, it can worsen the problem by pulling water through the foundation walls. To combat this, ensure proper drainage is away from your roof and foundation. Additionally, ensure that all bathrooms and kitchens have outside vents to provide adequate ventilation. Furthermore, during humid months keep windows shut so as not to let in more humidity than necessary. Finally, install breathable insulation between interior walls and floors as well as between foundation walls and floor slabs with a vapor retardant to prevent moisture damage.
6. Picking The Perfect Flooring
Some types of flooring cannot withstand a finished basement, such as solid wood. Solid wood can warp or crack even with small changes in moisture levels. Instead, find materials like vinyl planks, ceramic tile, and engineered wood that won’t be damaged below grade but still give you the aesthetic you desire.
7. Determine How To Finish The Ceiling
In a basement, drywall ceiling tiles are a wonderful option since you may easily relocate them to access pipelines or electrical connections as needed. Another excellent alternative is an installed drywall ceiling, but keep in mind that ceiling textures can easily flake off. Regardless of the design you pick, keep in mind that the highest level of your basement ceiling is also the same height as the lowest hanging pipe, duct, or wire.
8. Install The Right Lighting
Most basements are dim, so good lighting is a must. You might consider recessed lights, which are more expensive to install but provide excellent illumination. For a budget-friendly option, try floor lamps or track lighting. Be sure to place light switches near the door so you can easily turn on the lights when you enter the room.
9. Incorporate Soundproofing Features
Suppose your basement is directly beneath a bedroom or living room. In that case, soundproofing is essential to ensure the comfort of your family and neighbors. Start by installing drywall with acoustical sealant between the studs. Then add, mass-loaded vinyl barriers and fiberglass insulation to further reduce noise. Finally, add carpeting or rugs to help absorb sound.
10. If Possible, Have an Emergency Exit Plan
Before refinishing your basement, be sure to plan for any emergency that might occur. Local building codes may require egress windows and an enclosed closet if the basement room is considered a bedroom. An Egress window should be large enough for a firefighter in full gear to get into the house and safely escape if stairways are blocked by fire. Another hinged outside access door can also serve as an egress option.
Well, there you have it! These are just some things to remember as you start planning your basement finishing project. For more detailed instructions, be sure to consult with a professional contractor who can help bring your vision to life.
This list is not exhaustive but should give you a good starting point as you begin your project. Research and work with a qualified professional to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.
Also Read: 8 Essential Factors To Keep In Mind When Remodeling Your Home
Our Basement Finishing Experts Can Transform Your Not-So-Useful Basement Into An Entertaining Area!
RMS Painting & Remodeling is a reliable, professional basement finishing contractor serving the Bloomington, IL, area. We specialize in transforming dark, dank, and unused basements into beautiful, functional living spaces.
If you’re considering finishing your basement, call us today or request a free estimate. We’ll work with you to create a space that meets your specific needs and budget. Thanks for reading!
