The Unique Considerations that Come with a Basement Remodel

Remodeling a basement can be an excellent way to create additional living space within your home, whether it is an entertainment or family room, an office, playroom, gym area, additional bedrooms and bathrooms, or something else. Adding this space can increase the value of your home as it contributes to the square footage. But a basement remodel often comes with unique considerations that you will not usually run into with other types of remodeling projects. Choosing a professional contractor, such as those at http://1acontracting.com/, can assist you in becoming more prepared for the potential surprises. In the meantime, you can read about some of the unique situations a basement remodel presents.

Practical Considerations

Basements are underground, which can make them a nice, cool space to hang out in during the warmer months. But basements can also be damp, and are usually more at risk for acquiring water damage than other spaces. As a result, it is important to first check for any signs of water damage and to waterproof the space as much as possible. This can include inspecting the foundation and performing any necessary repairs and adjustments, as well as ensuring that gutters and waterspouts are properly installed and maintained on the outside of the home. Proper drainage around the foundation is a must. Another important consideration will vary depending upon what you want the space to be used for. If you are installing bathrooms, kitchens, wet bars, or anything that requires plumbing, make sure that you have the space and means to provide the water and waste removal necessary for the space. Also consider how the space will be heated.

Aesthetic Considerations

Basements are full of access panels, plumbing pipes, air ducts, valves, and wires. Unless you are going for a more industrial feel, you will probably need to come up with creative and aesthetically appealing ways to hide many of these elements. You need to make sure, however, to keep any valves and access panels just that: accessible. Your basement space is probably already a tad bit shorter than other spaces in your home, and once you finish hiding the ducts, pipes, and other elements, you may find that the head space has become even more minimized. At the same time, basements tend to have fewer windows, if any, which makes natural light rather scarce. Track, recessed, and other flat lighting fixtures can help to provide the much needed light to your space, while not taking away from the already limited ceiling space. If all else fails, a company such as the one found at http://1acontracting.com/our-services/ can assist you in finding creative solutions to your utility, lighting, and other basement remodel considerations.