5 Great Tips for Basement Remodeling
November 17, 2009
If you have an unfinished basement, think about all that space
under your home just sitting there, unused. Why not turn it into a
new room and increase your living space? A good basement remodeling
job can give your home a revitalizing lift.
Five Steps to Basement Remodeling
Be careful to select a qualified
basement remodeling contractor. Only someone who understands
the intricate details of moisture, concrete, and basement-related
issues can help you create a room that will last the lifetime of
the house.
- Make the basement waterproof. Even
if you don't have any current concerns with water in the basement,
why take a chance? Before you start turning that old basement into
a brand new room, use a good concrete sealant to keep the mold at
bay and the dangerous radon out. It also helps prevent the "musty"
smell some basements emit. Choose a concrete sealant specifically
made for use in older buildings to get the most heavy-duty
coating.
- Examine the reasonable requirements for your
basement. Most finished basements need an additional
source of heat, as they tend to be cooler than the rest of the
house. What type of flooring will you choose? The lumber you use
for the walls should be treated to prevent rot in the event
moisture rises up from the basement floor. Much of this work is
best left to a
reliable basement remodeling contractor.
- Take steps for clean air. Moisture
is a common concern in basements, and mold can be a major health
issue for your family. Electric floor heating is a great way to
help alleviate moisture in this part of the home. Other techniques
to reduce moisture include directing water away from the
foundation, using heavy-duty mold fighters like RadonSeal, or
choosing materials that resist mold.
- Design your space. Now it's time to
have some fun! Design your space to meet all the needs and
preferences of your family. Will the room be used for recreational
fun or for relaxation? After you choose a direction for the room,
decorate it with furnishings that suit your style.
- Turn on the lights. Basements are
naturally dark and they often have low ceilings, which can make you
feel like you are in a cave. Make the best use of natural lighting
by installing glass blocks or window wells. Use mirrors and
strategically placed artificial light to make the room feel bigger
and brighter.
Your hard work will pay off in a beautiful basement space. Now
take the time to enjoy it!
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a
freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was
built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her
hobbies.
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