A basement conversion to living space project is an incredible undertaking that requires focus, effort, and patience. Whether you plan to turn your basement into a living room, game room, guest bedroom, or office space, there are some basic guidelines you need to follow to prepare for this project. After all, basements primarily serve as storage spaces, and said areas do not need to meet the same requirements as other living spaces, so ensuring your basement meets those standards is essential.
Basement Conversion To Living Space: A 9-Step Guide
Just thinking about a basement conversion to living space project can be intimidating, so you want to ensure you feel as prepared as possible. Keep reading this blog to learn the nine steps involved in completing this task.
1. Decide What Kind Of Living Space You Want
Before you can even begin a basement conversion to living space endeavor, you need to take time to determine what kind of living space you want. By determining how you wish to utilize the basement space, you will be able to plan and proceed with the appropriate changes, as a guest bedroom conversion might not involve the same steps as a wine cellar conversion, for example.
2. Assess The State Of The Basement
Once you know how you plan to utilize the space, you first need to assess the state of your basement. This assessment will involve inspecting the state of the plumbing and wiring in the basement and determining if they need to be installed or improved. You also want to keep an eye open for signs of pests and wood rot so you can call the right professionals to nip those issues in the bud.
Additionally, you will need to obtain a radon test kit to check for its presence. You want to get rid of this ground-based radiation before it can inflict harm. Ensuring that the construction quality of your basement is good will allow you to determine whether you need professional assistance or are ready to continue to the next phase.
3. Measure The Basement
In order to install features with little to no complications, you will need to measure your basement, starting with the height. Then, you will need to obtain the measurements of the rest of the dimensions of your basement so you can abide by regulations and ensure anything installed is of reasonable size in relation to the space. You’ll easily get this step done with a tape measure in hand.
4. Install Insulation And Moisture Protection
Weatherproofing is absolutely necessary no matter where you are, and the two best ways to weatherproof your basement are to install insulation and moisture protection. The proper insulation will increase energy efficiency and provide excellent temperature control. Moisture protection will also reduce the chances of mold or mildew appearing in your newly converted basement. According to experts, you will want to address potential sources of moisture and add those protections first, then insulate your basement walls.
5. Install Egress Windows
Egress windows are an important safety feature of any basement. They are a way for you and your loved ones to exit your home in case you’re stuck there during an emergency. In fact, a basement used as a living space is required by law to have egress windows, so get started on installing those as soon as possible.
6. Set Up Proper Ventilation
A basement conversion to living space project might feel pointless in the end if the space has poor air quality and ventilation. That’s why setting up the right ventilation system for your converted basement living space is vital. Aside from maintaining good air quality and airflow, you want to ensure that any fumes or gases don’t get trapped in this part of your home for the health and safety of you and your loved ones.
7. Install A Sump Pump
Because of the proximity of your basement to the ground, you need to install a sump pump to avoid any sewage catastrophes. By redirecting groundwater, you significantly reduce the probability of water damage in your basement that could subsequently result in mold or mildew.
8. Choose The Right Flooring And Lighting
Once you have all the essential components installed to make your converted basement a truly habitable living space, you can start thinking about aesthetic choices. At this point, you can start thinking about what flooring and lighting options are best suited for your new living space. A basement conversion to living space can have any end result, so choose the flooring, lighting style, and materials that will best enhance your basement’s new purpose.
9. Adorn The Walls
Now, you can finally start thinking about adorning your walls. Are you planning on adding various kinds of art and other wall decorations? Is wallpaper to your liking, or are you keen on giving the walls a fresh coat of paint? However, you choose to adorn the walls, make sure it complements the rest of the look of your converted basement space and leaves you satisfied with the results.
DreamHome Remodeling And Builders Will Easily Convert Your Basement Into Your Ideal Living Space!
We hope you feel confident about making a change with this basement conversion to living space guide. As long as you remember to follow these nine steps, you will be absolutely satisfied with the results. Of course, you are more than welcome to leave this in professional hands if you feel more comfortable, and there’s no better service for the job than DreamHome Remodeling and Builders. Contact us today, and we will bring your dream basement conversion to life.