The Essentials in Renovating a Basement
There is no better way to maximizing square footage than renovating an unused area in your home and extending your living space without having to break down walls. Not only is basement renovation space efficient, but it is also cost-effective and a project that poses less disturbances to the household. Ready access to plumbing and other makes an added bath or kitchenette an ideal addition. This makes whatever you plan for your basement finish add doubled value to your New York home. And there are essentials that ensure project success ideal whether you are in Queens, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island or Manhattan.

Basements are typically dark, damp and cold. The challenge in renovating is creating a remodeling finish that is not only stylish and appealing but warm, comfortable, and functional as well. To take advantage of all the possible benefits here are the essentials:

Waterproofing

The extent of your moisture or water problems, will amount to the measures that you have to take to ensure that these issues are solved and prevented from reoccurring. To determine the proper waterproofing methods to use, the basement should undergo a thorough evaluation. While at it; look out for signs of water or moisture problems such as peeling paint, mold and mildew, dry rot, wall cracks, damp spots, rust on metals and the existence of white chalky stains on walls. Methods to use ranges from simply laying on concrete sealers, rerouting downspouts, to providing sump pumps in case of severe flooding.

Concrete slabs are among the greatest sources of moisture. To prevent accumulation of moisture and future damage, ensure enough ventilation and heating. Another helpful idea would be integrating remodeling materials and supplies that are moisture resistant.

A Sound Foundation and Good Soil Condition

Other than moisture and water there are other issues that should be attended to avoid surprise damages and repairs in the future, wasting both basement renovation efforts and of course money. Before renovating, it is crucial that good soil condition and a sound foundation are ensured. Some of the most common issues related to these essentials include:

* Crumbling concrete or mortar
* Warped foundation walls
* Unpleasant odors or poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in general
* Cracks in walls, footings or slabs
* Infestation of pests
* Radon infiltration
* High humidity
* Uneven settlement

Basement Finish

One of the most important decisions homeowners would have to take is what the remodeling result will be used for. To make the most use out of the space; consider the current needs of the family, the available space and how the finish can accommodate future developments. And by attending to existing problems and including preventive measures in renovating your basement, you are guaranteeing that whatever finish you chose will be enjoyed in the longest possible time.

Maintain Comfort

To implement and maintain luxurious comfort within the basement finish, proper and enough insulation should be used. Ensuring this would lead to better moisture control and efficient heating and cooling that lets you save up on your monthly energy bills. Also, discuss with your hired contractor whether renovating the basement would mean adding another set of HVAC system or just zoning the house and control temperatures through separate thermostats.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eugene_R._Makeev

No related posts.