Although you might instinctively overlook the basement as potential living space, with a little planning, preparation, and transformation, your dark and damp basement can become a valuable extension of your home.
Whether you choose to use the space for storage or as a new living space-- chances are, your basement is under-used.
By simply finishing your basement, you are not only adding valuable livable space to your home, but you are also adding to you and your family's quality of life.
Before you begin to consider what you will use your basement for, it needs to be properly finished, ensuring the walls and floors are properly sealed against moisture.
In doing so, you'll be counteracting potential water damage, instead of just covering it up.
Sealing the Wall and Floor Consider installing a dual wall system to properly seal the walls from underground water while providing the space with insulation.
This system will not provide a vapor barrier, but over time it can save you up to 97% of the heat that would otherwise be lost through the unfinished walls.
Once the walls have been properly protected, it is time to move onto protecting the floors.
This can be achieved by using protective, waterproof matting beneath the carpeting.
This will help keep moisture out, and keep other conditions out of the concrete-thus preventing it from making its way through to the carpet.
Once these measures have been taken, you need to ensure your basement has a good dehumidifier and air conditioning system.
When moisture begins to accumulate, your basement may begin to be overwhelmed with foul odors and smells.
But a dehumidifier will help remove the moisture from the air, while the new air conditioning unit will help keep the space cool.
Basement ids Finished, Now How Should it Be Used? There are many options for homeowners wanting to transform their basement into desired living space.
Too many times homeowners overlook what their basement could be.
In just a short amount of time, and with little effort and money, a basement can be transformed and can increase the overall value of your home.
Guest or Spare Bedroom Most homeowners are looking for additional living space to use for friends and family during visits.
If this is the case, a guest or spare bedroom is a good idea.
A finished basement adds great value to your home.
If you already have a guest or spare bedroom in your home, consider finishing your basement and adding an additional bedroom.
Finishing your basement and creating an additional bedroom can greatly increase your property value.
Since the basement is slightly separated from your home, give the new space a theme.
Some homeowners are fond of beach or tropical themes.
Popular themes are light blue walls to accent palm trees and sea shells.
The new space could be thought of as a little getaway without leaving the comfort of your own home, or this could be your relaxing zone, to escape the pressures of the day-to-day living of life upstairs.
Be sure to contact the appropriate official in your area to request more information about building a bedroom in your basement-there are some guidelines to consider.
A basement finishing expert would be of help! Home Theater If you have always wanted a home theater but did not have the space in your home, your basement is the perfect location.
All you need is a comfortable couch, a few cozy chairs, a coffee table, and a huge television.
If you are investing into this new space, consider purchasing a flat screen television that can be mounted on the wall, or a projection television system.
Game Room Another very popular basement finishing idea amongst homeowners is to create a play area for the kids or a family game room.
This new space can be an extended part of your home where you and your family can escape to spend quality time together.