There are homeowners who have been wanting to finish a basement in their home. This is because generally, most basements are dark, damp and cramped with old, unused items. We hardly even go down to the basement, but we know it is there. When we talk abut basements, we usually imagine a dark, murky place that is damp, flooding and invaded by moldy substances. So what can we do about that musky old basement and turn it into a place that is more livable and attractive rather than leave it without any purpose? Read on through this article to learn more about the fundamentals of finishing a basement.
Water Problems - If you want to finish a basement the basic rule of thumb is to deal with water problems first. Even if you notice only a very tiny amount of dampness or flooding in your basement, it would be a better idea to fix the problem completely prior to working on any remodeling project. Permanent solutions can take time, but the results will be rewarding for several years to come.
Untreated concrete in the basement sucks in water and dampness via a process referred to as wicking. The water and dampness negatively affects the integrity of the cement. When you seal your cement, dampness and water are no longer able to get into the cement and ruin it. You can use caulk or hydraulic cement to seal cracks and holes that are causing leakages in the basement. You may also install a drywall.
Planning - Now that you have identified the problems and what should be done to solve these problems in your basement, its time to plan. Consider what you want to utilize the basement for. Do you want a recreational area? A workshop? How about an additional bathroom, bedroom or living area? There are so many other creative possibilities such as a bar and childrens playroom.
Considering Lighting - Your next step is to decide on your lighting. The majority of the time basements have inadequate lighting. Depending on what you want to do with your existing basement, the basement may call for some improvements in lighting. For instance, if you were a photographer, then you dont have to focus so much on lighting. Other than that, you may have to incorporate new fixtures and wires, for instance, if you were to make your basement into a home office. When incorporating new wires, you should always speak with a qualified electrician.
Dealing with Insulation - Its time to think about getting proper insulation for your basement. If your basement is not already insulated, know that insulation is essential. Insulation helps keep weather temperatures out. It also can cut down your heating and cooling bills.
Basement Flooring - Consider your flooring. You would not want to just settle for the porous cement flooring already sitting in your basement. A carpet may be something you want to incorporate, as it can keep dampness out and is easy to clean and maintain.
Basement Walls - Finally, work on your walls. You may have to conceal your insulation board with something to safeguard it as well as make it look fantastic. You may use sheetrock, but you could go the extra mile by incorporating some type of paneling. These are just the basics if you want to finish a basement. More tips can be found online.
Water Problems - If you want to finish a basement the basic rule of thumb is to deal with water problems first. Even if you notice only a very tiny amount of dampness or flooding in your basement, it would be a better idea to fix the problem completely prior to working on any remodeling project. Permanent solutions can take time, but the results will be rewarding for several years to come.
Untreated concrete in the basement sucks in water and dampness via a process referred to as wicking. The water and dampness negatively affects the integrity of the cement. When you seal your cement, dampness and water are no longer able to get into the cement and ruin it. You can use caulk or hydraulic cement to seal cracks and holes that are causing leakages in the basement. You may also install a drywall.
Planning - Now that you have identified the problems and what should be done to solve these problems in your basement, its time to plan. Consider what you want to utilize the basement for. Do you want a recreational area? A workshop? How about an additional bathroom, bedroom or living area? There are so many other creative possibilities such as a bar and childrens playroom.
Considering Lighting - Your next step is to decide on your lighting. The majority of the time basements have inadequate lighting. Depending on what you want to do with your existing basement, the basement may call for some improvements in lighting. For instance, if you were a photographer, then you dont have to focus so much on lighting. Other than that, you may have to incorporate new fixtures and wires, for instance, if you were to make your basement into a home office. When incorporating new wires, you should always speak with a qualified electrician.
Dealing with Insulation - Its time to think about getting proper insulation for your basement. If your basement is not already insulated, know that insulation is essential. Insulation helps keep weather temperatures out. It also can cut down your heating and cooling bills.
Basement Flooring - Consider your flooring. You would not want to just settle for the porous cement flooring already sitting in your basement. A carpet may be something you want to incorporate, as it can keep dampness out and is easy to clean and maintain.
Basement Walls - Finally, work on your walls. You may have to conceal your insulation board with something to safeguard it as well as make it look fantastic. You may use sheetrock, but you could go the extra mile by incorporating some type of paneling. These are just the basics if you want to finish a basement. More tips can be found online.
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