6 Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Basement

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"Basement remodelling can be exciting but there are dangers to be aware of"

​Basement remodeling is arguably the most exciting kind of remodeling. Everyone wants their basement to be a personal safe space (a cave, if you will), and there are many things you can do to get there. However, today, we're not talking about those things. Instead, we'll cover things you should not do in all that excitement. Here are six mistakes to avoid when remodeling your basement.

1# Don't disregard safety regulations when you renovate and remodel

The first and most important home improvement tip is - to follow the rules. Any work done in a basement must adhere to all applicable building regulations. Stair riser height and the need for railings are two aspects of construction that may be governed by such standards, along with those about fire safety. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that all design elements comply with any local building regulations.

Failure to comply with construction rules or get the necessary licenses might result in expensive penalties and make it harder to sell the property in the future. As a result, before hiring a contractor for a renovation, homeowners should get in touch with the city's local building authority. So, familiarize yourself with the regulations it enforces, and make sure your contractor files for the necessary permits.

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"Ensure the correct paperwork is done before starting alterations and home improvement projects"

2# Too many walls can make basements cramped

We get it. Most of the crucial machinery is stored below there. So, you do need to consider some separate space for storage. Also, if different persons in your family want to use the basement differently, you'll have to make some compromises. Maybe you want quiet and productive office space, but your kids want a playroom. And, of course, you'll have the urge to solve that problem by simply separating the room with walls. Nonetheless, it would help if you considered how the arrangement of the area would change after installing them.

Adding too many walls might make the basement seem cramped and unwelcoming. Homeowners should choose fewer walls and more ingenious concealment solutions for all the excessive stuff.

Put some stuff into a storage facility. Instead of letting all the excess stuff prevent you from having your dream basement, you should consider some other storage options. In cases like this, storage and moving professionals suggest looking for an appropriate storage unit. It's essential to pick the size that fits your needs so you can leave your belongings without any worry on your mind. 

​3# Don't use real wood floors in the basement

A wooden floor in your home is a great way to improve the overall look. However, this flooring is better suited for more prominent areas of your house, such as the top stories. Again, this is because of the humidity-related problems with basement flooring made of wood. If you're a homeowner, the last thing you want is to see your brand-new hardwood flooring becoming moldy and ruined.
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However, you can find engineered wood and vinyl plank flooring that successfully imitates the look of real wood. This flooring and any adhesives you use with it is a better long-term option for a damp basement.

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"​Real wood is not a good option for flooring in your basement – there are many scenarios where it ends up damaged"

4# Choose the proper insulation for your basement

Insulation is crucial to making your basement livable, but many homeowners choose the wrong insulation. Houses must have walls with a minimum R-value to prevent air leakage, according to local building requirements.
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Because of their underground location, basements can get damp due to condensation. Fiberglass insulation may quickly turn moldy if exposed to this moisture, which can lead to more severe problems down the road. 

5# Do not omit HVAC systems for your basement

Unfortunately, that is one of the most overlooked aspects of home improvement projects. To be completely real and honest, the basement is the place in your house where moisture is most likely to build up over time. Typically, this is because it is placed below street level. Unfortunately, because basement mold usually develops slowly over time, it is seldom covered by homeowners' insurance. That implies that issues with air quality and hidden harm may not become apparent for months or even years.

While GA building codes mandate heating, air conditioning is essential for dehumidifying the air and eliminating moisture vapor travelling through the walls from outside. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that the basement's ability to maintain a constant cool temperature throughout the year is the essential factor in the basement's value. However, the air conditioner's primary goal is to improve indoor air quality. 

6# Basements require adequate lighting

Every room in your house needs proper lighting. However, this is particularly crucial for basements, which often have few windows and hence little natural light. Poor illumination in a basement may create an unwelcoming and frigid atmosphere. Therefore, the work homeowners invested in making their place more appealing might be undone by this.

Basements often have low ceilings, making recessed lighting an excellent option for essential lighting. Homeowners may also add lamps and ambiance lighting to improve a room's ambiance. Doing something as simple as changing the lights in the basement can be one of the best home improvement projects. You can transform basements into inviting spaces that visitors won't want to leave with the help of strategic lighting design.

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"Proper lighting can significantly improve your interior when remodeling your basement"

Remodeling your basement can be a blast

Now, you might have understood that this kind of home improvement brings nothing but trouble. And that's so far from the truth. Of course, there are some things to look out for. But, if you avoid these six basic mistakes when remodeling your basement, the whole process can be a walk in the park. And a pleasant one, with a beautiful reward at the end of the road! So, don't be afraid to dive into this kind of project. Form an idea of your dream basement in your head and bring it to reality!

Author

Author and home remodeling blogger, Samantha Byrde loves to share her knowledge about all things home-related. Sam loves to design and create beautiful living spaces that help homeowners realize their dreams.​

Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?

​Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home.  and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. 
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