There are many considerations to take into account before beginning a basement remodel. Some of the main considerations are moisture control, ceiling height, lighting, floor plan, egress windows and air purifiers. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to help you make the most of your space.
Egress Windows
When remodeling a basement, one of the best things to do is to install egress windows. These windows allow in natural light and are a great source of ventilation. Egress windows are also important life safety elements of a home. They provide an easy escape route for fire and rescue personnel and help make a basement more livable.
Basement egress windows are usually installed by contractors who know the material and code requirements. Having a professional do the job will save time and money. The best time to get an estimate is before you begin. A local contractor will be able to provide estimates.
Lighting
If you’re planning a basement remodel, you will need to take some lighting considerations into account. You will need to determine how much natural light you need in the room and how you want to use the space. These factors will help you choose the right fixtures.
A basement is generally dark and can be a challenge to light properly. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from.
Recessed can lighting is ideal for a suspended ceiling. This type of fixture minimizes glare and shadows, and is also great for seating areas. Alternatively, you can hang pendant lighting fixtures from the ceiling. These fixtures can introduce sculptural shapes and colorful accents to your room.
Ceiling Height
It’s often overlooked but the basement ceiling deserves some attention. Whether you’re building a new house or remodeling your existing one, there are a number of options to consider.
The best way to determine which option is best for you is to speak with an expert. They’ll know which options are the best for your home. If you have an older home with compromised foundations, you may need to replace your old foundation before attempting a basement ceiling raise. This is a better option than trying to jack up your roof.
Raising the ceiling is a complicated process. You’ll need to replace your foundation, extend your basement walls, and add some support. Plus, you’ll need a skilled contractor to get the job done right.
Floor plan
When it comes to a basement remodel, there are several things to consider. Among the most important is the floor plan. Ideally, your design should be a combination of functionality, style and space.
The best basement design is one that is functional, versatile and fun. Some ideas include a media room, a play area and a man cave. If you have space, you may even want to include a small bar.
For instance, a media room should have built-in surround sound, a large screen television and wi-fi. You might also include a wet bar with a refrigerator.
A media room should also include a powder room and a separate en suite bath.
Moisture Control
Basements can be tricky to work with. They often lack sunlight and have little ventilation. However, there are a number of reliable solutions that can help dry out a damp basement.
The first step is to determine what moisture control methods are most important in your particular climate. Moisture control methods can include insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
In addition, consider how your home is constructed. Building materials that can withstand moisture are critical. Consider installing a drainage system in your basement. You can also use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture.
The best basement moisture control solution is a combination of targeted measures. For example, a vapor barrier on the exterior wall can help keep out unwanted moisture.
Air Purifiers
If you’re considering purchasing an air purifier for your basement remodel, there are some things to consider. First, you should take the size of your basement into account. You want an air cleaner that will cover the area of your basement. It should also have a filter that will last for a reasonable amount of time.
Ideally, you should look for an air purifier that is made of high-quality materials that will not produce harmful byproducts. Those byproducts include ozone, which can be a health hazard.
There are many options available. Some are lighter and more portable, while others are larger and heavier. Costs can vary greatly depending on how much you use the unit and how many filters you need to replace.