TOP TEN TIPS FOR BASEMENT RENOVATIONS
Remodeling or finishing the basement can be a monumental task. Heilman's Renovation have ten expert tips for you on renovating your basement.
Plan The Right Exits
Building codes require that houses have safe exit routes in case of emergencies. This is especially true in bedrooms. Always check with your local municipality in regards to how large windows must be, especially for basements. Larger windows offer safer exit routes should there be an emergency and they also allow more natural light into the room.
Create A Design And Style
Now comes the fun part. When you do your remodel, you want it to blend in with the look and the feel of the rest of your house. Do you want a rustic retreat? A sports theme? A man cave? Or an authentic home theater? If you're unsure, it's time to consult with some design specialists in the North Vancouver area to help you determine the design and style of your basement.
Deal With Moisture Issues
Basements should never be wet. If you are seeing any moisture in your basement, or if water is coming in through windows or the foundation, don't start your renovation until you've resolved the water issue. If the water is coming in, it will begin to destroy the work that you've done on your remodel. Moisture can cause mold to grow which can be hazardous to your health.
Think Outside The Box
Don't be afraid to be creative and think outside of the box. Regardless of whether you're changing the layout of your basement, starting from scratch with an unfinished basement, or simply adding a fresh coat of paint and redefining the space, you'll find that there is a myriad of possibilities for your basement remodel.
Check The Height Of Your Basement
Basements weren't built as a living space in older homes and they tend to have very low ceilings and often the ductwork is low as well. If this is your case, you may have to relocate some of the ductwork in order to make a more livable and usable space. It can be a huge and daunting task. Ask the advice of experts before you embark on such a journey.
Drainage System
Basement renovations may include installing a new bathroom. You'll have to rough in some of the plumbing to achieve this task and connect it into the main plumbing system. Depending on the lines, you may require a jack-hammer in order to get through the concrete and connect it all. Call a professional if you need to and remember that you'll have to have inspections and a sign off from a master plumber to be compliant with all regulations.
Know The Hazards
Older homes may have such materials as asbestos. Asbestos was at one point in time used in floor tiles, in insulation and other materials that were frequently used in buildings. It can be very dangerous. If you have a basement that was finished over a decade ago, you may have asbestos. You may also have some faulty-electrical equipment that you should probably replace or have repaired by a licensed electrician.
Consider A Secondary Suite
A secondary suite can go far to increase your homes resale value. It can also help with a rental revenue stream if you're considering renting it out. Basement suites are often attractive to potential buyers and a great return on investment.
Leave Room For Improvement
Always consider future improvements that you may want to make on your home. While you may add in a bathroom now, leave space for new electrical and plumbing for the future while you have the walls open. This will be far easier to add in now than to rip walls out at a later date. A good example would be to run the proper plumbing for a future bathroom upstairs.
Noise Reduction
If you're installing a new home theater with surround sound, you may wish to consider some noise reduction. What if the kids are going to do some band practice down there? Be sure to use sound-reducing insulation on your basement renovation to ensure that it's not going to be disturbing those who are upstairs.