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How to Renovate a Basement: 10 Things to Know 1

How to Renovate a Basement: 10 Things to Know

From functionality to insulation, here are our tips for renovating a basement.

Basements can be such a wonderful addition to your home, especially when they’re done well to create a beautiful, functional space. However, knowing how to renovate a basement can offer up quite a few questions. When you’re renovating and finishing a basement space in your home, there are some things you want to make sure to do — and a few things you want to be certain to avoid.

If you’re ready to remodel, finish or renovate a basement in your space, we have you covered with these 10 essential basement renovation tips.

  1. Get creative with your basement space.

Your basement offers tons of options, and it’s really up to you what you decide to do with it. Consider getting creative to create a new play space for your kids, a home gym or a media room for movie nights galore. From making a home theatre to simply elevating your storage capabilities, get creative with your basement renovation.

  1. Keep an eye out for humidity levels and moisture problems.

Basements can be tricky due to high moisture levels and humidity problems — so proceed accordingly. When finishing your basement, thoroughly inspect the space for any areas in which moisture can come through. You’ll also want to consider keeping a dehumidifier in the space, and you can complete a calcium chloride test or a relative humidity test to keep moisture levels under control.

  1. Don’t forget about electrical work!

You’ll want to make sure that your basement is up to regulatory code when it comes to electricity — and you’ll also want to create a functional space that includes plenty of outlets and room to grow. Consider bringing an electrician into the project to make sure all electric work is done the right way.

  1. Make sure you have the proper permits.

A basement renovation often needs permits to be fully legal — so check with your local authorities to find out what steps you need to follow in order to renovate the right way. Building codes differ depending on your location, and your basement may require a certain number of exits or a ceiling height requirement.

  1. Pick your basement floor wisely.

Since basements can have high moisture levels, you’ll want to make sure that your basement floor can hold up. Stay away from carpets that can degrade over time. Instead, apply a waterproof layer and add engineered hardwood or vinyl planking.

  1. Insulate the basement walls.

Insulating your basement is key to having a comfortable, long-lasting basement space. Install drywall (basement walls are often just cinder blocks), and consider additional insulation in the form of foam insulation, fibreglass or spray foam. A properly finished basement will instantly create a more comfortable environment — and you’ll save on energy costs.

  1. Make sure it’s a functional space.

If you’re going to take the time to renovate a basement, make sure that you keep functionality at the top of mind. Whether it’s by creating more storage space for your unique needs, adding additional living space, creating a laundry room or adding a home gym doesn’t matter — it just matters that your space makes sense for you and your needs.

  1. Keep to your basement remodel budget.

Establish a budget for your basement renovation, and make sure that you leave room for high-quality flooring and insulation. As with any project, basement renovations can add up — so decide on an ideal number and keep to it.

  1. Seal off exterior spaces.

You’ll want to take special care when renovating your basement to seal exterior spaces, both for insulation purposes and to keep unwanted critters out. Taking off extra care to seal windows (or replacing them) and cracks will help prevent moisture problems, protect your investment and add comfort to your basement.

  1. Enlist a team.

The best way to start the ultimate basement renovation is by enlisting the right team, as the builders and designers at Gilbert + Burke. From obtaining permits to sealing walls the right way, you can make sure you’re building the ultimate basement by leaving it up to the professionals. Interested in starting your next project? Get an immediate estimate! 

If you’re ready to embark on the journey of renovating a basement yourself, congratulations! You’re going to rock it — we just know it.

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Ken Jaquith Director Of Client Experience
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