Basement remodeling can add usable square footage to your home and allow your family and friends to enjoy the space even more. And, a finished basement can add a lot of value to your property. According to Home Advisor, the average basement finishing project can bring up to a 70% return on investment when it comes time to sell your house.
But whether you want to pursue basement renovations to create a rec room, in-law suite, or entertainment space, you need to do everything you can to avoid some of the most common mistakes. Of course, hiring Louisville remodelers to handle your basement remodel is one of the best ways to alleviate this risk. But you’ll also want to watch out for the following missteps or your remodeling project could end up costing much more over time — and you might not be able to enjoy the space as you should.
Neglecting to Keep Moisture Out
Basements may be prone to flooding, especially if landscapes are not properly graded or you live in a low-lying area. If the ground becomes saturated with water, basements can easily flood. Even in ideal conditions, basements are more likely to experience excess moisture than other rooms of the house.
Therefore, you’ll need to protect your basement properly against the elements before you do any renovations. You’ll want to ensure your land has proper drainage, that you’ve installed a reliable sump pump system, that you fix any cracks or vulnerabilities in your foundation, and that you have a working dehumidifier first. You may want to work with a professional to seal or waterproof your basement, as well. Once those steps are taken, you can move forward with Louisville remodelers to design your remodel. Otherwise, all their hard work will end up being for naught if a big storm rolls through or a pipe bursts.
Using Natural Materials
Both you and many Louisville remodelers may love the look of hardwood floors. But as much as they can bring beauty to a room, they don’t belong in a basement. Again, because basements are so prone to moisture, these materials won’t hold up well underground. And even when manufacturers claim that products are chemically treated or have a moisture barrier, you may want to proceed with caution or choose a truly water-resistant alternative.
In short, steer clear of bamboo, cork, and other organic components in the design of your basement remodel to preserve its integrity over time. Fortunately, there are many safe alternatives that mimic the look of organic materials but don’t come with the same risk. The good news is that experienced Louisville remodelers like Bailey Remodeling are here to help you select the right materials for your space.
Treating Safety as an Afterthought
It’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics of the final design. But you can’t afford to forget about usability and safety. No matter how the space will be utilized by your family and friends, you need to consider both security and comfort.
Often, this comes down to heating, cooling, and lighting. Your electrical will need to be up to code, which may actually require you to install some additional walls to run that wiring. You’ll also need to consider HVAC needs. Your basements might be overly hot and humid in summer and freezing during the winter. In addition to adding insulation and dehumidification, you may need to add baseboard heaters or a separate air conditioning unit. Of course, you can’t forget about the egress window! Adding this exit route is part of building codes for good reason. If your home is ever involved in any kind of natural disaster, you’ll certainly be glad you had one installed.
By avoiding these major basement renovation mistakes, you’ll be thrilled with the final outcome of your remodel and will save both time and money in the process. To get started on turning your unfinished basement into your at-home oasis, please contact us today.