Tips for Remodeling your Basement – which is not to be confused with a mezzanine floor, a basement is actually the part of a structure such as a building which is entirely beneath ground level.
Also known as a cellar, basements can provide additional storage and are commonly used for sundry activities such as laundry or engineering works.
Renovations are part and parcel of household living. It may be necessitated by issues or residents may simply warrant change.
The primary tip is to calculate costs. Every step of the remodeling process will require a significant outlay.
Unless the resident engages in a DIY process, experts must be employed. Contractors, plumbers and electricians all come with a price tag.
Since they are direct determinants of cost, size and time must be figured from the onset.
The average remodeling process can cost 10,000 to 30,000 thousand dollars , therefore planning is imperative.
Penny pinching is ill advised when using materials for finishing a basement. The quality of raw materials should be ratified.
It is imperative to carry out a thorough inspection as well.
Systems such as HVAC apparatus and plumbing are generally found in the basement.
Due to their immobile nature, a pragmatic solution may be to hide these in plain sight via a paint job. However, the best suggestion is to not fiddle with these systems.
Architectural alterations can often create an unwanted nuisance such as noise pollution or potential health hazards.
A sensible technique would be to obtain the mandatory permits for such handiwork. These documents can be obtained from the regional municipality for a modest cost.
Moisture level is also fundamental. Basements must be completely dry before work can begin.
Signs of seepage, cracks in the wall or droplets of water leaking from a source are all red flags. Any potential drainage concern must be prioritized.
Framework is another essential feature of basements. Standard procedure would dictate that the nuts and bolts are fixed.
Screws can be fastened to properly anchor any structure.
Additional protective to combat dankness is strongly advised. A vapor barrier or furring strip can be installed to thwart moisture.
Alternatively, insulation can alleviate such issues.
Drop ceilings are often used as a measure to obscure pipes and electric wires. As discussed above, it is another concealing method.
Moreover, recess lighting can be established if residents opt for drop ceilings. Recessed lights are installed in hollow fixtures in ceilings and save valuable space, which may be confined in basements.
An embellished basement can add immense value to your home.
Once finished, it can be used for any purpose, whether it is a home office, game room or a gymnasium. Therefore, it is decisive to plan accordingly.