Basements are notorious for being dark, damp, and creepy places. Others avoid these underground spaces because they’re usually associated with horror movies and ghost stories. Fortunately, homeowners are now flipping the scripts and transforming their basements into valuable areas, such as rooms for extra storage and living space.
Basement renovations are increasingly becoming a favourite home improvement project among many homeowners because it allows them to increase their property value and improve the room’s functionality. However, you’ll likely encounter challenges and issues, especially if it’s your first renovation project.
If you want to ensure an almost seamless experience, this article will enumerate the eight basement renovation mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Neglecting Moisture Issues
Basements usually encounter moisture because of past flooding, the potential for future flooding, or water damage. Besides being a safety concern, neglecting these issues can also encourage harmful mould growth.
Before starting a basement renovation project, you must address all water damage immediately and take preventive measures to avoid future issues. You should also let inspectors check for mould infestation before making other changes if your underground room previously suffered from moisture issues or flooding. Moreover, call a mould specialist to remove these harmful spores.
2. Working with the Cheapest Contractor
From the materials to the furniture, basement renovations can be expensive. While it may feel tempting to choose the cheapest quote offered, remember that they usually indicate the contractor is cutting corners on labour or material costs.
You can avoid this costly consequence and ensure a successful remodel by researching and finding contractors who offer a fair price. You must also check if they have experience in the project you want them to do.
3. Not Using the Right Materials
Materials like wood, fibre or cloth fabrics, and fibreglass insulation look good in any room. Unfortunately, they’re not the best options for an underground space because they’re vulnerable to damage from moisture and flooding, which can cause warping or destruction. They’re also not ideal for basement renovations because cleaning and disposing of them can be challenging.
You can create a long-lasting space by using concrete or tile materials. You can also add rugs, sofas, and blankets in certain areas to make the space more inviting.
4. Not Picking the Proper Lighting
We previously mentioned how basements could create an uninviting atmosphere for anyone who walks in them. You can brighten your basement renovation project by adding ceiling, wall, accent, and task lighting.
5. Not Planning for Electrical Needs
During basement renovations, several homeowners forget to consider their electrical needs, assuming it’s not an essential part of the project. Unfortunately, this is a costly mistake because it can create a gloomy and unwelcoming basement, discouraging people from spending time there.
You can avoid this mistake by discussing your electrical needs with professionals, like installing enough outlets or appropriate lighting.
6. Not Adding Proper Insulation
Many people neglect to insulate their basements properly, which can cause drafts, noise, and moisture damage. Adding adequate insulation before starting basement renovation projects can create a comfortable and problem-free underground room.
7. Not Considering Ventilation and Humidity Control
When renovating your basement, you must consider ventilation and humidity control to prevent musty air, mould growth, and condensation damage. That way, you can keep the air fresh and dry.
8. Not Considering Soundproofing Needs
While basements are ideal for hosting guests, remember that improper soundproofing can disturb those who live above this space. You must invest in high-quality soundproofing materials if you’ll use your underground room for listening to music or watching movies.
Conclusion
While basement renovations can help give these neglected spaces a new look, remember that committing the mentioned mistakes will make your efforts useless. You can create a more comfortable space by working with a professional contractor and selecting the appropriate materials.
If your house needs help with basement renovations in Winnipeg, call Winnipeg Renovations! We’re committed to helping homeowners transform their homes into the ones they’ve always imagined. Contact us now!