Have you ever stopped at the corner of the stairs, looked at the dark damp basement and imagined that this could be a child's paradise? Parents' tea room? Or even a library where you can enjoy reading? But the moldy walls and intricate pipelines always let the beautiful imagination stop at just thinking. Below, we'd like to give some advice to anyone who needs to remodel a basement.
Key Steps in Basement Renovation
Assessment of Basement Condition(Pro/DIY)
If the budget is not enough, you can use your own flashlight to scan the wall for water stains or cracks, use a hygrometer to check the moisture content of the air, and uncover old carpet to check the floor for mold spots. With a budget, you can hire a home inspector whose specialized equipment can spot leaks and insulation gaps that are not visible to the naked eye.
Planning Renovation Goals(Pro/DIY)
After the first step is no problem, you can determine the function of the basement. Do you want to turn it into a rec room, storage room, home theater, etc. Establish a clear budget and consider various costs such as materials, labor, etc. Make sure your budget includes expected and unexpected expenses. DIY projects can often save money, but it's important to know your limits when it comes to skills and tools.
Obtaining Necessary Permits(Pro/DIY)
Many municipalities allow homeowners to deal with minor problems (such as painting or installing flooring) without a permit. However, more complex work, such as wiring, plumbing or structural changes, often requires a licensed contractor. For DIY, if your project involves complex work, it is important to know the local regulations and whether a permit is required.
Waterproof and Moisture-proof Treatment (Pro/DIY)
Because the basement is the most susceptible to moisture, it needs to be waterproof first, and can be equipped with dehumidification equipment to keep the ground dry. Walls and floors can be coated with special waterproof paint; At the same time, check the cracks in the external walls and repair them to avoid water seepage.
Electrical and Plumbing Installation(Pro/DIY)
The circuit should be made of high-specification waterproof wires by professional electricians to prevent moisture; The pipes should be treated with rust prevention and sound insulation. Be sure to remember to reserve access ports to facilitate later maintenance, and reasonably plan the position of sockets and switches.
Wall and Ceiling Treatment(Pro/DIY)
Moisture and mildew resistant materials are preferred for walls. The ceiling can be integrated with a suspended ceiling to hide the pipes, or water resistant plaster board brush waterproof paint. The edges and corners are sealed with edge strips to avoid ash accumulation or cracking.
That's all we need to pay special attention to when remodeling a basement, and if you're still struggling to find the right professional, SnapTap has plenty of highly rated professionals to choose from! Waiting for your dig!