It’s time to reclaim the basement from your Christmas decorations and old photo albums. If you’re looking to add more space to your house for a home theater, recreational room, home gym, or an additional bedroom, your basement is the perfect, underutilized space. Remodeling your basement will not only give your family more recreational space, it may also increase the value of your home. Here are some things to consider when finishing your basement and unleashing its full potential.
Check for water issues
Is it humid in the basement? You may want to invest in a dehumidifier. Is a vapor barrier necessary? Are there any leaks? Dampness? Do you have a sump pump in your basement? Do you need one, or need to replace the old one? Don’t use standard drywall as mold can grow on the paper coating if, despite your best efforts, it gets damp. Ask a professional for advice and don’t skimp on this area of your project.
Ensure that you have the necessary permits
We don’t really have to say this, but we will. If you’re having any electrical or plumbing work done as part of finishing your basement, you may also need to have an inspection. Take out the proper permits or you may have issues down the road when you go to sell your home.
Add heat
While the cool of your basement will be refreshing in the summer, in the winter, it will be too dang cold to handle unless you heat it. Consider adding heating vents at floor level, since heat rises and concrete basement floors (unless you carpet them, of course) are bound to be chilly.
Consider windows and doors
Natural light is important in occupied spaces, so if it’s possible, add some windows to the space. Bedrooms are required to have egress windows in case of emergency, so ensure that it’s possible to install a window before creating that guest suite. Additionally, consider whether there is walk-out capability from your basement and if an entrance might be useful and appropriate for the space you’re planning. Zeeland specializes in windows and doors and we can find the right product for your project and help with instillation.
Leave your utility space alone
Don’t finish your utility space. Building codes are very specific about the amount of space required for this equipment, and you want it to be easily accessible when necessary. If you don’t like the way it looks, just give the utility equipment its own unfinished room, away from the finished area of the rest of your basement.
Don’t let your basement be a waste of space, finish it! But if you do, make sure you take the necessary steps to prevent excess moisture and other issues that can arise from construction underground. Use basement approved flooring and wall materials to avoid issues years from now.
If you’re planning a basement renovation, Zeeland Lumber has everything you need to tackle the project. We have project specialists at all of our locations and can help you manage your project from start to finish. Stop by one of our locations or visit our website today to get started.
