If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where basements are a common feature, you could have a hidden treasure located just under your house! Whether your basement is currently unfinished or it’s just being used for storage, those that put a little bit of time and energy into this area of their house will only end up reaping the benefits. Not only will finishing your basement increase the living size of your home, but it will also increase the value, making it a better investment for the future. Plus, the only limit to what the basement can become is your imagination: a home theatre, game room, bonus room for the kids, office space, or even an apartment for a member of the family, the possibilities are endless.

Creating a Plan

First is the enjoyable task of deciding what you want your basement remodeling project to be. Once you’ve made up your mind to install that bar and billiards table you’ve always wanted, it’s time to get down to brass tacks and think about what your basement is currently missing and what features you’d ultimately like to add. If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll have to keep basics in mind, including electricity, plumbing, heat for the winter and keeping the space cool in the summer, if you need it. You’ll also want to remember to have the floors and walls checked to make sure they are waterproof.

If your basement is already finished but in need of an update, important things to remember will be to have the electricity checked, especially if it hasn’t been used in quite a while. If the space has only been used for storage or has been forgotten for a long period of time, it may not be a bad idea to have the floors and walls checked to ensure they are still waterproof before starting your home improvement project.

Possibly the most important aspect of updating your basement will be finding the right solution for your flooring. Since basement floors are usually made of concrete, they can be uncomfortable and cold, especially in winter. Some ideas to consider include floor heating, adding a layer of insulation under hardwood floors, or choosing an extra-thick carpet to keep you warm and comfortable.

Last but not least, some areas will require certain permits for some home improvements, including finishing your basement. You should be able to confirm what paperwork will need to be completed by contacting your local government or visiting their website.

Hiring a Local Contractor

Finding a home improvement contractor for your basement remodeling project should not be a difficult or intimidating experience for anyone involved. You are certainly under no obligation to hire the first contractor you meet. In fact, it is recommended that you receive three estimates on your project.

In choosing your contractor, be on the lookout for those that try to pressure you into features that you don’t need or want. A good contractor will be one that listens closely to your wishes and will work to get as close as your initial plan as possible. He should be able to provide a written estimate and a written contract before starting and may even agree to take care of all necessary permits.

Large scale home improvement projects, like finishing your basement, can be intimidating, but the long term benefits far outweigh the relatively short amount of time spent on it. In the end, you will have increased the value of your home, so don’t be afraid to start working on creating your new space!

by Roger Diez

You may need some extra space because your family is growing or a relative needs to move in with you. Or maybe you need a place to entertain? You can’t add a second story and moving is out of the question, so what do you do? Well, with a little imagination and some ingenuity and hard work, finishing your basement can transform that dark, dank junk storage space into something usable and even elegant. And when you are ready to sell your home, a finished basement can add to its value.

Basement Remodeling Ideas You Can Use

A remodeled basement has many potential uses. You can make it a recreation/play room with a pool table or ping-pong table. If you work out of your home, basement remodeling can provide you with a home office or a craft room. Do you want to get in shape? A home gym is another excellent use for the space. You can also remodel your basement into an extra bedroom for your growing family or for in-law quarters, complete with bath and cooking facilities. If you have separate access to the basement, you could even create an apartment for rental.

Plan Your Basement Remodel

Now that you have decided on finishing your basement, you don’t want to head downstairs with a load of lumber, some nails, a hammer, and a bucket of paint. If you want your project to succeed, a little planning goes a long way. First, take measurements so you know the space you are dealing with. Then lay out what you have and what you want the finished product to look like. You can use graph paper and pencil for the layout, or you can use basement remodeling software for a more sophisticated plan.

How About a Basement Remodeling Contractor?

If you are good at home improvement projects, you might want to try finishing your basement by yourself. But there are many facets to consider, particularly if your basement is damp. Are you skilled in the use of special coatings used to keep basements dry? Do you know about using specially treated lumber? How do you block off your furnace and water heater from view, but still have easy access? Can you get the proper permits and install plumbing and electrical systems that meet building codes? If not, you may want to bring in a specialized basement remodeling contractor. The contractor can determine whether or not you need exterior grading or a sump pump to keep your basement dry. They will be able to advise you on materials such as flooring and paint, and help design a proper heating and ventilation system. Make sure you select a basement remodeling contractor who has references. Check them out with the Better Business Bureau and your state contractors’ board. A good contractor can save you time and money in the long run.

Enjoy Your New Space

Once the work is done, you will wonder why finishing your basement didn’t occur to you sooner. Now you can have fun furnishing it. Whether you put in bedroom furniture for guests or in-laws, a poker table or pool table for recreation, a stair-climber for exercise or a computer desk for work, your remodeled basement is likely to get a lot of use and give you a lot of pleasure.