Basement renovations are one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your home. You could see up to a 75% return on your investment when renovating a basement.
You will get a new living space. Your imagination is the only limit to your basement design. You could create a home theater, a play area for your kids, or a cocktail bar for guests.
But successful basement renovations can be tricky to plan. This is even more problematic if you are new to the process. Where do you start?
We can help make your project a success. Read on for your 7 basement renovation tips!
1. What Do You Want to Use Your Basement For?
Decide on this before you do anything else. Knowing the purpose of your basement lets you design with precision right from the start.
Basements suit all kinds of activities but remember natural light will be limited. This is better for things like home theatres or yoga gyms. Music studios will benefit from the attenuated acoustics too.
You could create a dance studio with professional stage lighting. Like photography? Create your own darkroom fitted with all the gear and a projector to view your images.
2. Take Moisture Seriously
Underground spaces can become damp fast. This is one of your top concerns for basement renovations, more so if you live in an older property. Damp can create mold, damage electronics, and cause health issues.
Interior basement waterproofing is an essential part of a basement renovation. Rain can be heavy in Maryland, and you need to keep all that water outside!
You could install dehumidifiers for the wetter months. You might even consider installing a basement sump pump if you live in a flood-prone area
3. Think About Egress Requirements for Basement Renovations
One issue with basements as living spaces is they have only one exit. This can be a hazard in the event of fires, floods, or natural disasters.
The International Code Council (ICC) states sleeping spaces must have an emergency escape. If you plan to use your basement as a bedroom this is an absolute must. But it is easier than it sounds.
Installing a basement window is the ideal way to do this. Again, under the ICC, this must have approved rodent shields and storm protection.
4. Be Precise With Electronics and Wiring
How many outlets do you need? This depends on your basement’s purpose, but you can use the National Electric Code as a guide. You should add an outlet for every 12 feet of wall space or on walls over 24 inches wide.
You will need a certified electrician to do this for you. It is worth the investment, both for your safety and peace of mind. Check the rules in your state before starting electrical installation.
You must install a 15-20-amp circuit breaker to your electric panel. This ensures the power cuts out in the case of a short circuit or overload.
5. How Will You Light Your Basement?
As we said, basements can be dark places, and you want yours to be full of positive energy. Refer to your basement’s purpose. Darkrooms, dance studios, and theaters need special lighting.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are more efficient than incandescent ones. Incandescents create heat and waste more power than their fluorescent cousins.
That said, most fluorescent bulbs cast a cool white or blueish hue. Incandescents are lower in the color temperature spectrum. This makes your living space look warmer and cozier.
Full-spectrum CFLs mimic real daylight and could be an ideal solution. But they tend to be more expensive. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are a smart compromise; they are both efficient and affordable.
6. Save Space for Storage
No matter what you want to use your basement for, remember to reserve some storage space. You could build this into one of the walls or an item of furniture, like a sofa bed. You could also create crawl-space storage.
Most guests will see your upper floors first, so keep those areas tidiest. To maximize basement space, think multifunctional. Pack away and pull out items to adapt your basement for different activities.
Once you waterproof your basement, you can use it like any upper-floor storage space. But if you are concerned about flooding, store your things in airtight containers.
Basements suit open shelving, fold-away workspaces, and even clothes rails. The best basement renovation ideas make your living space multifunctional, neat, and versatile.
7. Cool in Summer, Warm in Winter
A well-insulated basement adapts to the outside weather. It is protected from strong sunlight, so it will remain cool even in the hotter months. In winter, the ground will add extra insulation and help keep heat in.
You need to think about ventilation in both of these seasons. This helps you regulate temperature. It also draws in the fresh air and prevents dampness.
Electric heaters are ideal for quick temperature boosts. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units have the climate control you need. You can program your HVAC remotely, locally, or from the upper floors.
You could also install a humidity monitor to keep precise control over moisture. Your HVAC will have this function, but you may want to use an external meter as a backup.
Ready to Add Value to Your Home?
Basement renovations are something all homeowners should consider. You will boost the resale value and get a great return on your investment. Even if you plan to keep your home for years, you will create a new living space.
Armored Basement Waterproofing is a local, veteran-owned, family company based in Baltimore, MD. We offer interior basement waterproofing across Maryland, covering most counties in the state.
We have helped homeowners protect their basement renovations for over 20 years. We offer you a full life of structure warranty and pride ourselves on our customer service.
Get in touch for your free inspection today!
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