Adding a remodeled basement to your home is an investment that can greatly increase the resale value of your property. However, like any other remodeling project, some steps must be considered before starting.
Start by determining how you want to use the space. This will help narrow down your choices for flooring and furnishings. For more information visit Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY.
Basements are a challenge for any home remodeling project, but when done right, they add living space and increase property value. To do that, it’s important to take a strategic approach. Having the right team on your side will help ensure that you get the beautiful basement you’ve always wanted. That includes working with a skilled architect who can tease out initial ideas and create a functional plan for the basement that’ll stand out.
Before starting the renovation, examining the space for structural issues, like cracked walls and floors, puddling of water, or sagging ceilings, is essential. This can determine the project’s scope and whether you need to tear down walls or start from scratch.
The next step is to draw a floor plan to show the layout of rooms and where you’ll be adding new ones. A drafting program, like software for design professionals or Home Designer software for DIYers, can make this easy. The program allows you to overlay an as-built and a remodeled plan in 2D and 3D, making it easier to visualize the finished product.
It’s also important to consider the existing plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC ductwork before deciding how to configure rooms and what furniture you’ll add. Often, you’ll be able to keep these existing systems, but upgrading them is a good idea, too. You can run new cables and ducts in a drop ceiling or add a separate basement HVAC system.
When installing materials, a basement remodel differs from most other house parts. The moisture conditions mean organic materials, such as wood studs, are not a good choice. Instead, it’s a good idea to use engineered materials designed to withstand the damp conditions of the basement.
After the drywall is installed, you can install flooring and add a kitchenette, sink, or bathroom, depending on your desired use for the space. Some paint the drywall before adding cabinets and other finishes, but that’s up to you.
Getting a permit is important for any home renovation project but especially critical for a basement remodel. A permit ensures that your work is done properly and meets local safety standards. If you skip the permit, you could face fines and other consequences.
To get a permit, you must submit your architectural plans for review. You will also need to pay a fee, which can vary from community to community. This fee may be a percentage of your total project cost or a flat rate. Many contractors include the cost of obtaining a permit in their estimate.
If you need to know whether or not your basement remodel requires a permit, it’s always best to consult with your local building department before starting the project. They will be able to tell you exactly what you need to do. In most cases, any construction or remodeling that requires walls to be constructed or removed or changes to electrical, plumbing, or HVAC services will require a permit.
A basement remodel that’s done without a permit can have serious consequences. In some cases, if the city discovers that work has been done without permission, they may force you to remove the work and make it all new again. In addition, not having a permit can make it difficult to sell your home in the future.
If prospective buyers discover that a home has been renovated without a permit, they may be wary of the property. This can decrease the amount you can sell your house for and even lead to legal complications.
To avoid these problems, it’s best to contact a professional contractor who can obtain all the necessary permits for you. If a contractor suggests skipping the permit process to save money, they are likely not licensed or insured and should be avoided at all costs. With some planning, you can have a safe and successful basement remodel. Just remember to pull your permit and have all your work inspected at key points in the project.
You can do a lot of work on a basement remodel, but working with professionals is crucial to the success of your project. For example, contractors know the best way to install plumbing and electrical wiring and can help you avoid costly mistakes that could lead to serious damage.
A contractor is also likely to have experience remodeling many types of basements so that they can offer you a wealth of ideas for your new space. They may have strong recommendations for how many walls or rooms your basement should have, what type of flooring would be best (especially given the intended use of the space), and even how to paint your new room.
Another important reason to work with a qualified contractor is safety. A good contractor should be properly insured and licensed and always use the proper equipment for each task. This includes protective gear, such as safety goggles, long pants and construction boots, sturdy gloves, and, for some aspects of the job, a face mask designed specifically for working with saws and nail guns.
Finally, a qualified contractor will be familiar with all the local codes and regulations that apply to basements, and they should be able to ensure your remodel is up to code. They should be able to pull the necessary permits for you and will be able to have building inspectors visit as the project progresses to check that everything is being done correctly.
It’s also important to do ample research before hiring a contractor. Look for projects completed in your area and ask for references from previous clients. Look at photos of finished projects, visit trade shows, and attend open houses to get a feel for what you want your finished basement to look like. Having plenty of ideas to draw from will make it easier for you and your contractor to find designs within your budget.
A finished basement can add great value to your home and increase its resale potential. Whether you want to turn your basement into a party spot for beer and wine enthusiasts, convert it into a family-friendly media room, or create a guest bedroom and bathroom suite, a basement can be a worthwhile investment.
In addition to making your basement a comfortable and stylish place to hang out, a well-lit space is also crucial for avoiding injuries due to falls or accidents. Installing recessed lighting is a good choice for basements, as it provides even, bright light that can eliminate shadows. You can also add lighting fixtures with dimmer switches to adjust the brightness of the lights as needed.
Depending on the purpose of your remodel, you may need to upgrade your electrical wiring. This is another task best left to a licensed professional. The process will involve digging a trench in the floor to install new outlets and run new wiring throughout the space. Running new electrical wiring through a basement is tricky, and it can create safety hazards that you may need help identifying and addressing on your own.
The last thing you want to do when renovating a basement is cover up structural problems with new drywall or flooring. If you don’t fix any underlying issues, moisture or mold will eventually seep through and cause damage. Before remodeling, hire a plumber or an electrician to look at your basement. If they recommend a foundation repair or other repairs, address these before beginning the project.
Finishing the job quickly by skipping out on permits may seem tempting, but there are better moves than this. If caught without a permit, you could face hefty fines and be forced to remove any work you have already completed. Getting the permits is a small price for enjoying your basement remodel and ensuring your home’s value stays high when you are ready to sell it.
If you’ve been putting off a basement remodel, now is the time. With some planning, you can transform your basement into the relaxing retreat you’ve always dreamed of. From a family room and media area to a game room and home gym, you’ll find that this space becomes the hub of your home, giving you more ways than ever to entertain friends, enjoy quality family time, or spend time with loved ones.