Look up at the ceiling over your head, and also think about the roof above it. You are lucky to have that shelter. Of course, you worked hard to afford it, but that point aside — someone else worked really hard to build it. Our point here is that without construction workers and contractors, we would not have homes in which to live. We all value our homes, and of course, we value the other buildings we spend time in, too. Everyone has a different way of showing their appreciation for this work. Our way is to write about construction on this blog. Your way could be reading about construction on this same blog!
If your family needs space to entertain friends, have sleepovers, watch movies, and play games, then remodeling your basement might be a good idea. It may be difficult to imagine your dark and spooky basement being a place for your family to hang out and have fun, but a basement remodeling contractor can transform the space into a useful living area that adds more room to your home. Here are five important parts of a basement remodeling project to discuss with your contractor.
1. The Egress Window
If your basement only has tiny windows at the top, then you may need to have an egress window put in. This is a requirement of local building codes, so you'll need to learn the codes in your area. An egress window is usually required in basement bedrooms, but your city might require a window in any type of finished basement.
2. Height Requirements
A finished basement has to follow the same building codes as the rest of your house. That includes the minimum height of the ceiling. If you live in an older house with a low basement ceiling, your contractor has to find ways to make more height. For instance, they might lower the basement floor or raise the basement ceiling. They could even elevate your entire house, although that is a costly option.
3. Climate Control
There are several options for basement climate control. You might install a gas fireplace to keep warm in the winter or you might install a mini-split heat pump to provide both heating and cooling. The contractor could even add the basement to your current HVAC system. Climate control is not only important for comfort; it helps keep humidity low so your basement stays dry.
4. Utilities Needed
Installing electrical outlets and plumbing will be a major part of your basement remodeling project. Unfinished basements in older houses usually don't have many outlets. Since the finished basement has to be up to code, an electrician has to install at least the minimum number of outlets. However, you may want more if you'll use the basement as a media room.
Lighting is also very important in a basement since there is a lack of natural light. If you'll have a wet bar, small kitchen, or bathroom added, you'll need plumbing installed too.
5. Moisture Control
One of the most important things to consider when undertaking a basement remodeling project is how you'll keep the space dry. You don't want a hard rain to get your basement wet and you don't want dampness to make the place musty and moldy. You may need to install a basement waterproofing system to ensure the space stays dry and you may need to run a dehumidifier to keep dampness away.
To learn more, contact a basement remodeling company.
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