We all have a favorite room in our house. For some, it is a warm and welcoming kitchen. For others, it is a sumptuous living room or a comfortable bedroom. When is the basement your favorite room? You can transform a boring basement into a room for a getaway and create a new favorite place. Upgrade that lost space and get more of your home’s square footage.
Did you know that the cost of remodeling your basement is significantly cheaper than adding an additional room? The savings are even greater if you can start with a dry basement. With the average cost of a basement remodel about $ 20 per square foot, basement transformations are a real space solution for some. There are a few things to consider before beginning your basement remodel. If you are not sure where to start, it is wise to consult a local general contractor. Estimates are usually free.
The official basics
Most city and county regulations require basements to have 7 foot ceilings. Without the proper ceiling height, you may have a hard time obtaining a building permit. If your ceilings are close to that height, check with a local contractor. They will be able to offer you some ceiling solutions that can help you find more headroom. Don’t worry too much about overhead pipes and wiring. Pipes and cables can be moved or suspended ceilings can be hung. It’s also great to have a qualified contractor who can educate you on the building codes for your getaway room. You will be familiar with what is important to local inspectors.
Wet or dry?
The next concern should be the humidity in the basement. Some older homes have high humidity and even occasional flooding. Of course, it would be unwise to remodel your basement without addressing these serious issues first. Floods are mainly caused by runoff problems. You will have to divert your basement drain. You may also need to repair gutters to keep water out of your home. Foundation cracks will also need to be addressed. Cracks in your foundation will allow rainwater to collect in your basement. Drain repair and installation are also important. Also ask your contractor to check for radon before you build. Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that can be found in settled water, such as underground pipes. It would be a good idea to check for radon before beginning your basement remodel.
Ventilation in your getaway room
Ventilation is a must in your newly remodeled basement. You will need cold air and heating returns. Your contractor will be able to run ductwork, establish registers, and adjust any outlet piping. Or you can buy a ventilation system in the basement. Check with your contractor which one is right for your situation.
From darkness to light
Your getaway space will need some light! With windows out of the question in many basements, recessed lighting is a great way to fake the natural light in your new room. Look in local stores for the lighting fixtures that best suit your overall decorating scheme.
Fabulous floors
To combat the damp feeling in your new room, you may consider installing heated floors. What a cozy way to keep your feet warm! However, there are tons of great flooring options available, from hardwood to tile. Even the rug is a great accent and brings a level of comfort to your new room.
What room?
You can turn that dead space into a busy family room or create a home theater. Underground game rooms and party rooms are popular options too! You should also consider an exercise room, an additional guest room, or simply your own artist’s retreat. Whatever you choose, your getaway room will be perfect with a little help from your local contractor.
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