Basement Remodel

Use of Space

As you draw up plans to remodel your basement, consider options for the best use of the space available. Will you plan to divide the area into more than one room? How do you plan to use the space? Common uses include:

• Living quarters
• Guest room
• Playroom for children
• Retreat for teenagers
• Game room
• Office
• Home theater
• Exercise room

Options are endless and as unique as the family living in your home. Keep your remodel practical and functional for your family's uses.

Basement Remodel

As long as you plan to go through the work of remodeling your basement, take the plan all the way. Eliminate the feel and smell of the basement and transform it into an extension of the rest of your house.

Insulation

To eliminate the damp basement feel, insulation is key. It not only helps to keep moisture out but also helps to regulate the temperature. Moisture is the cause of that musty basement smell you want to get rid of.

Check with your local utility company for advice and information about low-interest or no-interest loans available to help pay for your remodel. Also investigate whether state or federal tax credits apply to your renovation project. In some states utility companies will send a representative to your home to offer insulating and weatherizing tips to help reduce energy bills.

Waterproofing

It's worth the extra effort to make sure dampness or flooding problems are addressed before remodeling begins. If you're basement is damp or has ever flooded, it's a good idea to contact a home inspector, preferably one who specializes in basement or foundation waterproofing problems. Have them come out and offer solutions to implement before work begins.

Lighting

Consider lighting options carefully. Because they are underground, basements are predisposed to being dark and gloomy. When choosing lighting options, look for ways to increase natural lighting or use artificial lighting. This can be done by:

• Adding or enlarging windows
• Using floor and table lamps
• Installing glass blocks between rooms to maintain the flow of light and privacy

Flooring

The options for flooring are numerous. What flooring you go with will depend on how you plan to use the remodeled basement. One thing to remember as you make your flooring choice is that flooring like tile can be cold.

If you plan to include ceramic or natural stone flooring in your finished basement you can add area rugs for warmth. Another option to warm up tile is to install a heated floor, which serves two purposes as it also helps to lower humidity.

Carpet has its advantages and disadvantages, too. Carpeting is definitely warmer and easier on the feet, but on the downside it retains moisture. This fact makes it ideal for growing mold and mildew, which encourages that musty basement odor.

Stay away from hardwood flooring for your basement because if water does get your basement, the floor would be ruined.

Ceiling

Before you install the ceiling of your basement remodel consider the following:

• A suspended ceiling hangs and hides pipes, ducts, wires, etc., but it also takes away eight inches from the height of the room.
• Wrap hot and cold water pipes and gas lines to guard against condensation damaging your new ceiling.
• Create a physical access to get to valves and pipes.
• Lay lines for both high- and low-voltage wiring.

Designing Your New Living Space

When designing your basement remodel a little planning and careful preparation help create useful living space that is attractive and comfortable. Whatever design choices you go with, take the time to think through the best choices regarding insulation, waterproofing, lighting, flooring and your ceiling before the work starts.