Regardless of why you're embarking on a basement remodeling project, it brings with it a wide range of benefits that simply cannot be ignored. Not only does it add essential living space to your home, but it can also dramatically increase its value as well.
There are, however, a lot of factors you'll want to consider before you being remodeling your basement because no two environments are created in quite the same way. Depending on the age of your home and its construction, there are a number of elements that will likely impact choices you'll be making in terms of the layout, the features and even the amenities you'll soon get to enjoy. Once you properly account for these variables, you'll be able to enjoy all the fun parts of this process with as few of the potential downsides as possible.
Moisture Resistance
By far, one of the most important components you'll need to consider ahead of your basement remodeling project has to do with how you'll handle any moisture issues that you've already encountered.
If your basement has never experienced moisture of any kind, terrific - this probably isn't something you need to worry about. If you've had minor issues in the past, you may be able to take care of them with special caulking or even water-lock paint.
More severe problems may require you to elevate your flooring or might even require the installation of something like a sump pump to keep water outside where it belongs.
Heating and Cooling
Another major factor you'll want to consider before you remodel your basement has to do with any special heating and cooling needs the room might have. If your basement is where your furnace is situation, you may not have to do anything at all because it probably already stays relatively cool during the summer (thanks to the fact that it's underground) and warm in the winter (thanks to the heat generated by the furnace).
If this isn't the case, you may need to modify your existing HVAC ductwork to provide additional relief during those hot summer months since you'll be getting so much more use out of this space. Likewise, baseboard heaters are a fast, efficient way to heat the area during the winter.
Lighting, Lighting, Lighting
Another major element you don't want to overlook is lighting. After all, you want your basement to look and feel like a warm, inviting space in your home - not like a dungeon.
By their very nature, basements don't tend to get a lot of natural light and if the space was previously only used for storage, you'll likely need more than you already have. Recessed lighting in the ceiling is a great way to illuminate the entire room while also saving as much space as possible. You can also hang pendant lights over tables or other spaces where a more focused light can really create the look and feel you're going for.
A Finished Bathroom
Finally, since you're already going to the trouble of remodeling your basement, you'll want to at least consider whether to add a bathroom (with a shower, preferably). Not only will this help you get the most out of the space if it is going to be primarily used as an entertainment area, but it can also significantly add to your home's resale value, too.
If you'd like to find out more information about all the major points you need to consider before you remodel your basement, or if you have any additional questions you'd like to discuss in a bit more detail, please don't delay - contact Matrix Home Solutions today.
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