Basement Remodeling Suggestions For Transforming Wasted Space Into A Living Area
If your basement is damp, dark, and musty even though it was partially finished at one time, then think about hiring a basement remodeling contractor to turn the space into an extra living area for your family. You'll need to check local codes for an overview of the requirements, such as ceiling height, window placement, and any other regulations that might require major reconstruction. Then it's a matter of remodeling the space to function and appear as you imagine. Here are some suggestions for basement remodeling.
Add Plenty Of Light
Brighten up the space by adding several light fixtures. The lighting you choose will depend on what you intend to do with the space, but since basements usually have only a few windows, ample lighting is necessary. Adding a variety of light styles improves illumination and also sets the mood. Putting the lights on dimmer switches is also a good idea so you can make the lights dimmer when you want to watch movies and brighter when you want to play cards or other games.
Heat The Flooring
A basement floor is cold since it's a slab on soil, and heating it makes the floor much warmer so your kids can play on the floor in comfort. You can heat a basement floor with radiant heat or heating mats. These circulate hot water through cables or use electric cables to keep the floor nice and warm. While these add heat to the space, you'll also want to connect your basement to your HVAC system to keep the air fresh and the room ventilated. This also keeps the temperature and humidity in your basement the same as the rest of your house.
Consider Bamboo Plank Flooring
Bamboo planks are attractive, and they're a good choice for basement flooring since they tolerate dampness much better than some other flooring materials like carpet or wood. Another good choice for basement flooring is vinyl. These planks look like wood, but they tolerate basement conditions much better, and they're easy to install on a slab with adhesive or by locking them together.
Make Sure The Space Is Dry And Sealed
One important step the contractor takes is to make sure the basement is dry. If moisture is seeping in, then your basement may grow mold on the backs of the walls or under the flooring. Check your current waterproofing system if you have one, or have the basement waterproofed. In addition, all leaks need to be sealed with fireproof caulking or spray foam. Your basement may have many leaky areas if they've never been filled. It will be hard to control the climate if the gaps aren't plugged, plus sound will transfer from the basement to the upstairs unless the space is sealed and insulated.
Your contractor can transform your basement into a bar, second kitchen, bedroom, family room, rec room, or home theater so you can utilize your basement instead of just keeping the door closed on damp and musty wasted space.