Figure out use every bit of space as you plan your basement renovation.
Creating a nice basement space can yield extra living areas and important home storage. Developing a good layout will help you find room to keep the upstairs areas of your home neater. Sports equipment or home care products can be kept in the basement, for example. You will need to review several layout options, so that your final plan will use every square inch of space effectively.
Assess the Project
Review the basement area. You will need to measure all sections to find usable space. However, it's important to look for any problems -- moisture or even mold, for example. Old plumbing and electrical wiring may need upgrading as well. Ask if a walk-out door will need to be installed or windows will need energy-efficient replacements. Figure that new issues will present themselves later on. Problems popping up can derail your remodeling budget.
Plan the Space on Graph Paper
Create a floor plan. You might wish to create a 15-by-20 bonus room, for example, with a nearby bath. A laundry room, downstairs pantry or extra bedroom might figure into the layout as well. Use graph paper to come up with various floor plans. Be sure to draw each interior wall facade, due to the fact that an egress door, windows, and staircase descending from the main floor will factor into the design.
Choose All Materials
Select remodeling materials. You may wish to install tile flooring in the main living space and indoor-outdoor carpet in other rooms. Moisture-resistant drywall might be a good choice in place of standard drywall. Draw the interior to include crown molding, a mirrored wall, bar with stools and leather sofas, for example. An ideal basement plan should serve as your starting point. You can substitute items to trim the budget, if you need to.
Seek Professional Advice
Call in experts for good advice. For example, ask a plumber to review best ways to install toilets for any bathrooms. These toilets will need to flush up in most cases. You will need to select the best waterproofing compound for the walls to prevent moisture problems. Mold experts can advise you on products that will kill mold when painted onto walls.
Figure Money and Time
Plan your budget and time line before starting work. You will need to factor in materials, labor and minor costs such as obtaining a building permit. Develop a schedule for the work to unfold, so you can plan work and family activities around them. For example, the electricity and water will need to be turned off during certain renovation steps. The summer months, when kids are out of school, might work best for a basement remodel, for example.
