Imagine working from home on a weekend. You’re trying to concentrate on an important upcoming presentation, but the chaos around you could be more manageable. In that moment, you think, “Oh, how I wish I had a home office all to myself!”
Or perhaps you’re a cinephile too! Going to the theater regularly just for the experience might feel too much. In those moments, you’ve wished for an entertainment center in the comfort of your home!
Or, you simply wish to elevate your house!
But where? If that’s what you’re thinking, we have an excellent recommendation for you! Be it a home office, an entertainment center, or an extra room, the answer to all your questions is your basement!
Your basement is your neglected friend when it comes to renovating spaces. It’s often overlooked, but when you decide to maximize its potential, it might leave you surprised!
This might sound difficult, if not impossible, to find that potential in your basement. But if you’re one of the 38.3 million single-family homes in the United States with a basement, you’re already at least one step closer! Next comes the question of when to remodel it.
When to Remodel a Basement?
When remodeling often comes down to your affordability in investing time and money into the project. If your basement has mold or structural issues requiring immediate attention, remodeling becomes a matter of safety.
There are at least five major issues you must tap into, before deciding to renovate your space!
One: Moisture or Water Issues
Water has the potential to spoil a good basement remodeling in the making! To prevent that, you could administer a moisture test by taping 2-foot squares of plastic sheeting on the walls and floor. The results might take a week or two to show. If there is any moisture that appears after, your foundation might need sealing. This is a sign that you need to dehumidify the place before you move forward with the process.
Two: Structural Element Integrity
If you have an awl, use it to probe floor joints, the sill plate, and other places to inspect any insect damage or rot. Sagging, if any, needs to be taken care of before moving forward. Consult a professional if you notice any structural concerns.
Three: Call for a Plumber or an Electrician
Call an electrician to take a look at your basement’s electrical capacity to ensure that it can handle an increased load if needed. A plumber might help in understanding if there’s any need for a water supply in your basement, like a bathroom or a wet bar.
Four: Safety Regulations
It becomes essential that one takes a permit before embarking on renovations. Most municipalities ask for permits to make changes to your home or a basement. Find safety standards and building codes that are designed to protect you and future homeowners. Licensed contractors here could prove helpful as they simplify the permit process because of their expertise in the field.
Five: Insulating, Painting, and the Works!
This step consists of insulating your basement so your space stays warm in winter and cold in summer. Painting, fixtures, and flooring are steps that come later, and their priorities depend on you.
The finishing steps consist of a series of mini-steps. This could mean adding your final touches like picking out a cabinet, desired lighting fixtures, blinds, and more. Once done, call for final inspections and you now have a space that you always wanted!
When to Contact a Professional?
Basement renovation by itself might not be a DIY project because of its comprehensive list of requirements and expertise. We advise you to contact the best basement finishing professional near you when you’re not confident and, we promise to deliver you a space tailored to you and your needs!
We can help you transform your basement into the perfect space for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a home office, a media room, or a guest bedroom, the best basement finishing professional near you can help you create the perfect space.
Don’t let your basement go to waste. Contact the best basement finishing professional near you today to get started on your basement renovation project.