If you’re considering remodeling your basement, you may be wondering if it’s worth the money. Whether you’re interested in extending your living space or you just want to add more room, you’ll want to make sure that you know the advantages and disadvantages of adding more square footage to your home.
Adding a Second Story Adds a Lot More Square Footage to Your Home
If you’re looking to add a little more space to your home, you may want to consider adding a second story. The extra square footage can be a nice bonus and increase your home’s value. However, adding a second story can be expensive. Depending on your neighborhood and the size of your house, the average cost of a second story can range from $60k to $600k.
When you’re considering a second story, you should find out what is the city’s maximum height requirement and how much square footage is allowed. This will help you determine how large of a second story addition you’re likely to need.
You should also make sure that your city has the allowable zoning. Some areas don’t allow second stories at all. A building permit can be obtained through the local zoning office.
Another consideration is the size of your lot. A narrow lot may not be able to accommodate a second story. Also, if your house is on a hill, the project will take longer and more money to complete.
Radon Levels Must be Reduced Even if You Aren’t Finishing Your Basement
Regardless of whether you are finishing a basement or simply remodeling the house, you’ll need to consider reducing the level of radon in the home. Radon is a natural radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is present in the air, soil and rocks. In some cases, radon can leach through cracks in the floor of your basement.
Luckily, there are many ways to reduce radon levels. You can increase air flow, use a dehumidifier, or install a radon mitigation system. But you’ll need to do it regularly.
A professional test is the best way to determine the amount of radon in your home. It can take a few weeks to get a result, so you’ll need to be patient.
If your test results show high radon levels, consider hiring a radon mitigation professional. They have the tools and experience to identify dangerous radon levels. The EPA recommends that you get tested every two years.
Pre-modeling Before Remodeling a Basement
If you’re planning on remodeling a basement, you should consider pre-modeling before you start. This will give you a good idea of what the finished space will look like and what features will be useful.
A finished basement can be used for a variety of purposes. You can have a mother-in-law suite, a playroom for your children, or even an entertainment area. But it’s important to make sure your finished basement is compatible with your family’s needs.
Depending on the home’s construction, you may have to get permits or even structural work done before you can complete your basement renovation. Some cities have building codes that specify how tall the ceiling should be and what appliances can be installed.
Another aspect to consider is whether or not your basement is already waterproof. Having waterproof flooring can make cleaning up a breeze.
A moisture meter can also tell you if you have existing water problems. It can also let you know if there are new water stains on the walls or furnishings.
Investing in a professional
Adding a finished basement to your home is an effective way to increase your property’s value and resale potential. However, it can be expensive and require a lot of work. Finishing your basement can give you a 70 to 75 percent return on investment, depending on the area where you live.
Before you begin a basement finishing project, it is important to determine your goals. This will help you determine the best materials for your project. You will also need to decide how much money you can afford to spend.
The cost of finishing a basement varies depending on the type of material you choose. For example, laminate flooring is less expensive than carpet. It is also more resistant to moisture.
Aside from the material costs, you will need to consider the cost of permits and labor. Depending on the size of your basement, you may need to hire a contractor. Investing in a professional will ensure a quick turnaround and quality work.