How to Add Value to Your Home by Finishing Your Basement
Before you begin, be sure you have all the necessary permits in order to complete the project. You can check with the local government or even online to find out what is required. Most local ordinances require an individual to have a permit before any type of construction work is done on a home for the obvious safety reasons.
If you’re thinking about hiring a contractor to complete your basement finishing then it’s necessary to plan out what you plan to do before making the hire. It will give the project a sense of direction and will cause it to go much more smoothly. The contractor needs to understand your desires and have a clear vision of what you’re trying to accomplish. Otherwise, you’ll be left with an unhappy situation and a bill that was higher than you originally intended because the contractor did lots of unnecessary work. The contractor can provide you with accurate pricing, as well as the ability to get a better estimate on the timeline of completing the project. Keep in mind that this is the contractor’s full-time position. If you’re doing this project on your own in your spare time then the completion dates could slip because things come up in your life and you haven’t had the opportunity to finish it. A contractor is an unemotional third-party that will get you a quality and professional finishing job.
Finishing your basement can be a rewarding experience, but it requires a great deal of planning and preparation. The first problem you’ll find with refinishing is the ceiling height. The majority of basement ceilings are lower than the other ceilings throughout your home. There is a solution, however. You can conquer this problem by finishing around your ductwork, or as it is often called, “boxing.” This allows you to have a higher ceiling with the majority of your basement. While this gives you higher ceilings, some do not like the idea of the ductwork being exposed and it may be an eye sore. Though it’s expensive, you could always re-duct your basement to accommodate the finishing, but that’s more work than is necessary. This is the point where you need to evaluate whether or not you’re trying to extend the living space or simply make it look nice. Quality versus quantity, remember?
When you’ve come to the flooring part of your basement finishing project, I highly recommend using carpet. When purchasing your carpet, be sure to use good padding and opt for thicker carpet, even industrial carpet. The basement floor is, more than likely, made of concrete and by adding a little extra cushion it will make it more comfortable for your feet. Remember, the flooring upstairs is supported by wood, that’s why it’s softer and less stressed. Even if you choose hardwood floors I’d still put in a significant layer of padding to control moisture and add comfort.
During your project pay close attention to the plumbing and electrical components in your basement. Although you’re trying to make the room functional for living, you want to project the basement’s integrity by keeping all the necessary components intact. Provide easy access to these areas in case any repairs are needed down the road. Boxing these components in with easy access opening is the best and most efficient way of handling this.
Again, it’s best to contact a contractor for accurate estimates and a better idea as to the nature of the project. Finishing your basement is a wise investment, for the present and the future.
