Things to Consider When Starting Basement Renovations

Basement renovations can be different from renovating your entire house. Before starting the project, various things must be considered since converting an unfinished basement into a liveable space can come with bigger rewards. Many people exempt from the thought of taking into account their basement and altering it into something useful. They treat it as a repository for their junk and essential services like furnaces and water heaters.

But do you need a reason to build a cozy family room or an extra space to expand your house’s living area? Though basements were never intended to be a fully functional liveable space, you can always tackle obstacles and turn the accessory space with your creativity into a convivial habitat for humans. Here are various things that must be kept in mind before starting the project to not end with something disastrous.

1) Check out the state rules for basement renovations-

You may be planning on incorporating more rooms in your basement or some heavy appliances, not knowing that they are against basement renovation rules in your state. Therefore, before implementing any changes, it is better to check the laws and regulations to break them; otherwise, you can be charged with a heavy fine or another penalty.

2) Get rid of molds-

This is one of the main things that must be inspected before beginning the remodeling project. Molds tend to splurge on different surfaces in the presence of humidity. Basements are suitable places for the growth of molds that can eat up walls, furnishings, and linens. If you do not want your renovated basement to be a victim of mold spores, then get them inspected and removed before the project begins.

3) Check the drainage requirements-

If you plan to add a wet bar, a food prep area, or a bathroom, then determine a way to tap into the home drainage system in your basement. You need to figure out a way to lift both the solid and the liquid waste to connect to the house’s central drainage system.

4) Waterproofing the basement-

If you reside in a flood-prone area, it is suggested to waterproof your basement once it is done using a sump-pump, covering material, and devices informing you regarding a flood situation. Water can easily ruin a perfectly planned and executed finishing project. Apart from ruining it, you will have to spend a lot of money on restoring it.

5) Lights for the basement-

Since basements are darker due to lack of windows or almost no window, considering lights become an important factor. I would suggest you choose compact fluorescent or LEDs that can brighten the place and prove to be energy-efficient.

6) Take help from professionals-

Basement renovations can involve some serious work, and many states have codes for granting permission for a basement finishing project by hiring a contractor. Therefore, you must hire a basement renovation contractor who can help you with the plans from the beginning to the end.