Revamp your lower level to add high style, function, and major value to your home.
Besides expanding your home’s functional square feet, finishing a basement can significantlyboost the property’s value.
Here’s what to expect when you finish a basement.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Expect a Payback
Finishing a basement can be agood investment.
Flex Your DIY Muscle
Plumbing and wiring are best left to professionals.
Remember to line up proper building permits first; failure to do so could result in delays.
Credit: David A Land
Put Safety First in Stairwells
Create beautiful and safe access to your finished basement withstylish stair handrails.
Make Moisture Worries Evaporate
Installing a dehumidifier won’t fix moisture problems.
In fact, it can create problems by drawing water through foundation walls.
Credit: David A Land
Find the Right Flooring Option
Not allflooringcan (or should) be used in a finished basement.
Solid wood is one example; even minor fluctuations in moisture levels can cause buckling and splitting.
An installed drywall ceiling is another good option, but remember that ceiling textures can easily flake off.
Have an HVAC contractor verify that you also have the right equipment to serve the basement.
Otherwise, you could reduce the equipment’s life span.
Rein in Radon
When planning a basement refinishing, it’s essential to test for radon.
Radon is an odorless radioactive gas that seeps into basements from surrounding soils.
Uncontrolled, it can expose you and your family to the equivalent of 200 chest X-rays annually.
Test for it with charcoal-base collectors, or hire a licensed radon contractor.
Or you’re able to see if your local utility company offers radon testing.
Mitigating radon may involve sealing cracks and surfaces or installing ventilators.
Have an Escape Route
You should plan ahead for emergencies when refinishing a basement.
Local building codes may demand egress windows for a basement room to be considered a bedroom.
An enclosed closet may also be required.
Another egress option is to add hinged outside access doors.
Start with thebasics from floor to ceilingwhats the vibe you want to give to your basement?
Are you looking to turn it into a cozy family room or a space for entertainment?
If its the latter, have you thought about adding abasement bar?
This would be perfect for impromptu happy hours or to unwind after work.
