You’ve decided that the family needs some extra space or maybe you just want a man (or woman) cave.  A finished basement represents the perfect option for creating your new space.  Here are some things to consider before breaking ground on your basement finishing project.

Check for Moisture and Foundation Issues

Basements are notorious for being damp spaces.  Inspect the area to be sure there are no moisture issues that should be remedied in advance.  Install a vapor barrier if there is not already one to help resolve this problem. 

Also, now is the time to assess the foundation for cracks or other issues that may indicate structural problems with your home.

Required Permits

Check with your municipality to determine whether you need permits for your project.  It would be no fun to start on the basement of your dreams only to find out that you have to stop because you don’t have the proper permissions.

Leave Plenty of Space

If your HVAC unit and/or water heater are in your basement, you’ll want to be careful when creating your basement design around these units.  Regulations typically require a certain amount of open space surrounding these appliances.  Also, you’ll want to ensure that there is plenty of room to access the units in case of maintenance and repair.

Drop Ceilings Are a Convenient Solution

The height of basements is often restricted by pipes and duct systems that help to operate your home.  A drop ceiling provides coverage while still providing easy access to plumbing and ductwork.

Insulation is Key

You’ll likely be spending lots of time in your new space, and so you will want to be sure that the temperature is always just right.  Change your basement for a cold space with four walls to a warm and cozy family area.  Install insulation to keep the warm air in during the winter and things cool during the summer.

A basement renovation can be a perfect way to add living space square footage without having to make any additions to your home.

If you have any questions about best practices for basement renovations or you would like to learn more about our services, please feel free to contact us today.