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Remodeling Ideas Home » 5 Great Tips for Basement Remodeling

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.