An unused basement is not just a waste of space, but a potential treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The blank canvas of a basement holds endless possibilities for transformation into a liveable and usable space.
These tips are here to guide you in unlocking the full potential of your basement, inspiring you to create a space that perfectly meets all your needs.
Permits and Inspections
You absolutely need to obtain the correct permits when renovating a basement prior to starting any work on your basement. Permits can take weeks to come, and inspectors can also have lengthy waits for them to come and inspect the work. So planning ahead is vital so you are not delayed in your work. Create a schedule and then put in your schedule for presentations and book your inspector visits so you know well in advance when they will be arriving so you don’t get delayed unnecessarily.
Waterproof
Your basement needs to be waterproof if you are going to use it for any reason. Because basements are underground, they are constantly under pressure from surrounding groundwater. And if this water permeates the structure, you might find it causes massive damage to the basement and your property. Even more so if you are hooking up electrics or using them as a permanent living space, i.e., a kids’ bedroom. If you don’t waterproof our basement, you are opening yourself up to excessive water damage, as well as the possibility of mold and mildew growth. So before you do anything else, look at basement waterproofing to help you provide protection for the space.
Insulation
Insulation is a must for basement renovations. It regulates the temperature and keeps the space cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Since you will be using the space regularly, it can help lower your energy bills and ensure it’s a comfortable place to use all year round.
Maximize Light
Lighting in the basement is an important consideration. This is due to one of the biggest hurdles of a basement renovation, the lack of natural light because of its position. Some basements might have small amounts of light coming in via windows, but many will be completely underground. You don’t want to rely on artificial lighting too much in the basement; instead, use light colors to reflect light, use bulbs that mimic artificial lighting, and look for ways you can increase light in the kitchen, i.e., using reflective surfaces, such as having a glass-fronted door the entrance to the basement inside the house, etc.
Practical Features
When renovating a basement, it’s essential not to overlook the practical features you’ll need. These could include storage areas, plumbing for a bathroom or kitchenette, electrical wiring for lighting and appliances, entrances and external exits if feasible, and emergency escape routes or stairs for access both inside and out. For instance, if you’re planning to use the basement as an additional bedroom, most states require an egress window to be added. This window should be large enough and low enough for a person to easily escape through in an emergency.