Basement Remodeling – What You Need to Know
Prdesign | Basement Remodeling often involves a lot of different tasks, including framing the walls, hanging drywall, installing plumbing and electrical work, and adding a new ceiling. If you plan to convert the space into a living area, you may also need to install an egress window and flooring.
Defining your goals and understanding why you want to remodel your basement will help to keep your project on track throughout the process. It will also help you make the most of your renovation budget.
Design
Unlike the rest of the house, the basement is a blank canvas that can be designed to meet a variety of lifestyle needs. These include family rooms, home offices, guest suites, exercise rooms, and bar or entertainment areas.
Before beginning your basement remodel, it is important to define your goals for the space. This will help guide the project throughout its duration and ensure that the finished product meets your expectations. Additionally, you will need to plan for electrical upgrades as well – adding new outlets, lights, and lighting fixtures will require additional wiring and panel installation.
Depending on the scope of your basement remodel, you may also need to add plumbing lines and HVAC systems. This will be a substantial investment, but one that will pay dividends in the long run. Your renovated basement will serve as a comfortable, separate living area for you and your family. Alternatively, you can convert it into an apartment to generate income as a rental property.
Layout
Before you start thinking about decorative items and paint colors, it’s essential to evaluate the function of your basement. Your lifestyle and family needs will help determine the layout of your basement design. You may need an office for work, a family room to watch sports or movies, or a home entertainment center with a bar and pool table.
Evaluate any fixed items in your basement that can’t be moved, such as support columns and beams. These can be made to look decorative with molding and trim, but they shouldn’t impede the function of the rooms.
A basement can be a fun place to play games and hang out with friends and family. You can also add a home theater for movie watching and music listening. A media room can be a relaxing escape from the busyness of everyday life. You can even create a separate room for kids to play, and add a kitchenette for entertaining.
Materials
As with the rest of the home, basements are built from a variety of materials. The most common is poured concrete, which creates a relatively smooth surface that is easy to work with for framing and plumbing. Other wall types include cinder blocks, bricks and stone. Many homeowners choose to insulate their basement walls. This is a great way to increase energy efficiency and reduce moisture problems.
Once walls are framed and insulated, it is important to consider flooring options. A new floor can transform a basement from a cold, unfinished space to a welcoming family room. Flooring also protects the concrete from moisture damage.
In addition to enhancing your family’s lifestyle, a well-designed basement can add to your home’s resale value. Whether you are remodeling the basement to accommodate an entertainment area, a wet bar or rentable living space, your design-build contractor can help you explore the possibilities. Then, he or she will help you bring your ideas to life.
Finishing
Finished basements add livable space to your home without the costly price tag of adding a full-blown addition. Basement remodels are also a great way to update existing rooms with new paint, carpet, and lighting that complements your lifestyle.
Basement remodeling generally entails cleaning, installing insulation, framing walls and hanging drywall, adding a new ceiling, and more. Depending on your goals, it might be necessary to install plumbing and electrical, or add egress windows.
Basements often require more electrical work than upper floors, and will need to be wired for lights, recessed lighting and outlets, as well as HVAC systems. In some cases, it may be necessary to add a bathroom or kitchen to accommodate your desired room layout. For instance, creating a basement theater requires a high-quality A/V system. In such cases, it is best to consult with an experienced contractor. They can recommend options for cabinets, trim, flooring and other finishes that will withstand moisture and stand the test of time.