If you are still treating your basement like a dumping ground for those bits and bobs you have no need for, you’re missing out!

Think about all the things you can do with all that extra space. If you’ve always wanted a home office, you’ve got it. If you want an extra living area for the kids or to rent out for some extra cash, you can do that, too!

However, basement renovation is a seriously demanding home improvement project. You can’t afford to make any mistakes. Here are things to remember when renovating your basement for a successful finish.

Determine Your Goals and Set a Budget

What do you want to do with the basement? Once you’ve finished, do you want it to be a room, a home office space or a space to make your home more valuable when you sell it? Make this decision up front because changing gears in the middle of a project is expensive, and it will affect the layout, flooring options and other decisions.

Once your goal is set, work up a reasonable budget. You may need a few months to save for the work, but once you have a figure in mind, you can see if the renovation is realistic or not.

Check for Moisture and Drainage Issues

Most basements are perpetually damp. Before you start any work, you’ll want to make sure your basement is waterproof. Inspect yours for leaks and cracks, and repair every one you find before you proceed with any renovations.

The nightmare of a flooded basement — which will almost surely occur if you don’t waterproof your basement — is not one you ever want to live through.

A basement waterproofing contractor may recommend installing a sump pump or weeping tiles.

Check for Structural Issues

Can you see large horizontal cracks along the basement wall? Do you have sagging floors or stuck windows elsewhere on your property? Basement remodels cannot proceed if you have any structural issues to fix first. Otherwise, you may lose your investment when the structural problems worsen.

Take Note of Local Building Codes

One of the most important things to remember when renovating your basement is to stick to local building codes. In Ontario, the building codes state that:

• The ceiling height for a basement must be a minimum of 6’5” under the ducts and beams
• 75% of the basement floor area has to be at least 6’11” in height
• Basements renovated into a sleeping space must have Egress windows

Pay Attention to the Lighting

Basements generally feel dark. Therefore, you must be intentional about brightening up the space. You may need to install more high-power lighting fixtures and install windows for natural light.

Choose Qualified Professionals for Your Basement Remodeling Project

However you intend to use the space, basement renovation will test your resolve. Therefore, you’re better off hiring experts to help you with everything from the waterproofing to the electrical work.

Do you feel like there are just too many things to remember when renovating your basement?

Call Karry Home Solutions today at (905) 456-2943 to schedule a consultation.