For those who have been given the added bonus of having a basement, there are plenty of ways you can make the space work as your own. Whether you are looking to add a special getaway for the family, a hideaway for certain portions of the family or even a rental space, a basement is a great advantage to a home.
However, not all basements start out being finished. Plus, many that have been finished are lacking the touch that the homeowners desire to make the room live up to its potential. If you are considering remodeling your basement, here are some things you will want to consider.
Be Flexible
One mistake that many homeowners make is creating a basement that is extremely specific to their tastes. This could be because they have a designated purpose for the room or have a vision that is much different from other homeowners.
However, it is always a good idea to keep the future in mind when you are designing your basement. By being flexible you will be able to adapt to the future where you may have a different vision for the area. This could also make it easier to sell your home in the future.
Maximize the Space
Another aspect that is great for the basement is the addition of extra storage. Many families use the basement for storage, but you may lose some of that storage space by finishing it. Luckily, you can recoup some of your storage by adding in custom shelving, built-ins and additional storage areas.
This is another bonus for when you decide to sell your home. Potential home buyers will love the additional use of the storage and you will be able recoup some of your remodeling costs by doing so. This can also help make your life a little simpler because you will not have to find new places to store your belongings. It will also help to have the extra storage space as you grow your family.
Make sure you Waterproof
One of the downsides of many basements is that they are wet and damp. This typically happens when water makes its way between the slab and the foundation wall because of cracks in the foundation. If this is the case, it is always best to enlist the aid of a professional contractor to help waterproof the company.
Having water in your basement is never something that is good for your home. It can cause mold and mildew to develop, which could make the occupants of your home sick. However, by correcting the problem, you will be able to keep the water away from your new room. Along with this, you may also want to add an air purification system in your basement. This will help to keep stale odors and smells from lingering. But, this is not intended to cover up mold and mildew. Those should still be removed and the issue corrected before you begin your remodel.
Permits
Before you begin any home remodel, you should check with your area to determine whether you require a permit to finish the job. For the most part, a permit is usually required to finish up a basement. For this reason, it is usually best to rely on a contractor to help with the job. While you may be able to complete some of the work on your own, you will need the contractor’s expert advice to complete the project up to code.
If you are looking to remodel your basement in the Maryland area, be sure to contact us. We will be able to offer even more tips and ideas regarding your model and help you to make sure you are compliant with local laws.