Plan and design your basement renovation carefully.
A detailed plan with your basement measurements is mandatory before any construction work begins. Identify all immovable features or fixtures like furnaces, plumbing pipes, and heaters and their locations. That will enable better visualization of the basement based on what you intend to achieve.
Planning also means determining how to separate the basement by creating a design board with all the elements for the new space. For instance, choose flooring materials according to the expected foot traffic, determine where to build or remove walls, and furniture arrangement. Every scenario has different requirements – a basement serving as a bedroom cannot have the same lighting fixtures as a home theatre.
Overlook the importance of proper insulation.
Basements are often cold and unconducive because of where they are situated. Failure to install proper insulation can result in overuse of heating and cooling appliances, adding to your utility bills. Insulation enhances energy efficiency, protects against harsh weather elements, and prevents excess moisture issues. Therefore, the basement becomes more comfortable and habitable, perfect for entertainment or any other plan. The existence of small windows or a complete lack of them enhances the need for insulation.
Together with the insulation, adding lighting elements can improve brightness and warmth. Incorporate overhead lighting and some accentuating fixtures to enhance the visual attraction of the room.
Ensure proper waterproofing and moisture control measures.
Moisture is the most destructive element in basements and entire homes. Resolving water-related problems is challenging, especially in the lower levels of a property, where condensation and water seepage issues are common. Repairs may require more time, effort, and money to complete.
The extent of the excess moisture varies with every location and property. Weather changes throughout the year also determine moisture issues. However, installing mitigation measures when renovating a basement is the best remedy. You should also inspect the space for existing moisture problems before the renovation. Common signs to check out include peeling paint, discoloration, and mould growth. Our professionals can assess potential damage and assist with waterproofing.
Ignore foundation issues or structural problems.
Basement remodelling is usually a substantial investment that requires a lot of resources and can only bring great returns when done correctly. Thus the importance of taking care of all aspects of the basement, including existing damages, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Concealing some issues may be tempting, but it is never advisable. The best solution is to tackle them before making further changes to the basement. For instance, covering mould patches with a fresh coat of paint may seem like a good idea, but it is not a lasting solution. The same applies to potential structural damage that is not yet extensive. Our experts recommend fixing such issues permanently first.
Consider incorporating sufficient lighting and ventilation.
Basements do not always have sufficient natural lighting when unfinished. Most of them have small windows or openings that do not allow enough light to brighten the space, making lighting one of the essential elements to include in the plan. The design should incorporate multiple lighting fixtures and features to make the room as bright as the rest of the house.
With the help of a designer, determine how improved lighting can help you capitalize on the space. That is the best way to make the basement as bright as other rooms. Keeping the room aerated is also critical in making it habitable and mould-free. Proper ventilation will eliminate draftiness for a fun and efficient basement.
Neglect to obtain necessary permits and comply with building codes.
Like other construction projects, basement renovations involve multiple stages that complicate them. Such projects also have elements that are prohibited or allowed by the city council. Failure to check all the mandatory codes and permits with your municipality's building department before adding or removing any fixtures could result in demolition, translating to a waste of resources. You may have to redo the project.
Ignoring the codes and permits also interferes with the design - you may not know what is or is not allowed. Hence you cannot draft a foolproof customized layout. By consulting your municipality's building department, you get the reassurance that your basement is safe, legal, and fully functional.
Optimize space utilization and storage solutions.
Space utilization is often the priority, even when you want to boost the aesthetics. How you use the space currently does not matter - whether it serves as a storage area, office, or home gym - the modifications should enhance such usage. The changes you make should increase practicality and aesthetics. That means closing off walls where you need privacy and removing them if you prefer an open-concept layout.
You can also add sufficient storage solutions to capitalize on all the awkward spaces – clever storage maximizes the available space. Storage is necessary no matter how you intend to use the room. Bathrooms, powder rooms, kitchens, playrooms, home theatres, and bedrooms all require storage.
Overcrowd the space with unnecessary fixtures or furniture.
Renovating a basement provides you with an opportunity to furnish it however you like, but that flexibility can make the process of choosing the right furniture and fittings more challenging. Avoid overcrowding the space with too much furniture and unnecessary fixtures with mismatching colours because it makes the room less appealing. The best solution is to subdivide the basement.
Determine what you want in each section and the right furniture. For instance, the TV area, the dining area, and the entertainment section should all have different types of furniture. You can also buy sectionals or modular pieces that easily fit through the basement door and are moveable - keep it simple and practical instead of overly crowded.
Choose durable and moisture-resistant materials for basement applications.
If you want to spend less money and time on regular repairs, choose materials that can withstand the conditions in the basement. The biggest issue is usually excess moisture, which can be due to flooding or water infiltration through foundation cracks. Using moisture-resistant materials is the perfect countermeasure. It is the best way to enhance functionality and longevity in the basement. Such materials include tiles and vinyl.
Since the position of basements makes them more naturally vulnerable to water-related damage, strategic installation can minimize damage. For example, placing electrical fixtures and shelving units for electricals higher can prevent destruction.
Forget to address potential plumbing and electrical challenges.
The layout of the room usually determines the installation of plumbing fixtures in most basements. For instance, where you want to place sinks and showers will influence plumbing pipe installations. However, you should not ignore possible issues that might arise later. Ensure the fixtures are accessible to facilitate quick fixes if leaks or clogging occur. Electrical components should also be positioned to serve their purpose well while remaining accessible for possible changes in the future.
During electrical wiring, consider the potential for growth, for instance, any additional appliances you might buy and their power consumption rates. Leave room to accommodate other fixtures like bathtubs too.
Hire professional contractors for specialized basement renovation tasks.
Accountability, creativity, and knowledgebase are some of the benefits of hiring contractors. Basement renovation experts can effortlessly create designs that make your dream a reality, no matter the challenges associated with the space. Professionals also know the best techniques and procedures to prevent costly mistakes. We maintain a schedule and get the job right the first time.
The best way to choose a suitable contractor is by checking the reviews. Find out the customer satisfaction rate from the feedback of previous customers and check out previous work to determine a contractor's ability to deliver according to your expectations. Warranties, reputation, and years of experience in the business also matter.
Underestimate the importance of professional expertise and guidance.
Some aspects of construction work require specific skills that only experts can provide. Only proficiency can guarantee the basement remains dry and warm after the renovation by filling and sealing existing cracks or framing the ductwork accordingly. Poor craftsmanship during repairs or installations can result in damages during a heavy downpour or extreme temperature changes, rendering the entire basement uninhabitable.
Confirm the contractor's capacity to deliver on the job beforehand and establish their familiarity with the zoning and permit requirements. The renovation company should also have a dedicated team to handle electrical and plumbing systems. A licensed and qualified contractor is the best way to get a return on investment.
