The basement is one of the most overlooked areas on the property. It is typically dank, dark, and musty, but it has a lot of potentials. Such spaces can be turned into something functional and aesthetically pleasant without much effort. In addition, renovating the basement will add property value and usable space for your family.
If you’re considering renovating the basement, you must plan properly to ensure everything looks and feels right. You can work with a reputable contractor, or you can do it on your own. However, you must always work with a trusted skip-hire company like aasvogel.co.uk to provide you with a good-sized skip to eliminate the project waste. Their expertise and experience allow them to stand apart from the rest.
Here are some tips for renovating the basement.
Plan on what you want to do with the space
Before renovating the basement, you must determine what you want to do with the space. Your vision for the basement will help you determine the area’s colour palette, layout, and design. For example, if you want to renovate the basement because you wish to improve the property valuation, you might need to create an open design which would be more inviting.
Set your budget
Renovations cost money, so you must set your budget wisely. While a ballpark figure is workable enough, you must set a cap on how much you want to spend. For example, you wouldn’t want to go overboard and overpay for materials and labour costs.
Clean the area
Before renovating the basement, you must ensure the space is as clean as possible. You wouldn’t want to start the renovation process with many things strewn about. You want to ensure a safe working space and enough to move around when the project starts.
Conduct a moisture test
Basements are typically damp due to increased moisture in the air. If you want to store something in the area, prepare to contend with dampness. Moisture can lead to mould growth and can warp wood floors. You must conduct a moisture test to determine how to correct the situation. You can use a calcium chloride test or call a professional to handle the relative humidity test. Once the results are in, you can craft the right steps.
Make sure you’re up to code
Different locales have different specifications regarding building codes. Before you begin your renovation, you must coordinate with the local authorities to determine if your project is within the allowable parameters. You must secure the required permits before you start your project.
Improve the electrical and plumbing
Among the things you must improve on when renovating the basement are the electrical system and the plumbing. Map out the area to ensure everything will be up to code regarding the number of outlets and pipes.
Improve lighting and ventilation
Don’t forget to install enough light fixtures and windows to ensure the space is comfortable and ventilated.
Endnotes
Transforming the basement is a huge investment because it would entail much work. However, when you see how much the area has improved, you know it’s worth it.