Basement Remodeling

Tips and Tricks for a Functional Space

Purchasing a home with a basement is great because the basement provides you with additional space. Many people use a basement for storage. Unfortunately, you often find issues that make a basement less than functional. For instance, you may find that your basement is dank, dark, and leaky. Luckily, you can convert the space into something functional with some tips, tricks, and assistance from our professionals here at ALD.

Address Foundation Issues

The foundation plays a critical role in your home’s structural integrity. If the foundation of your home is compromised, it can lead to greater, far more costly damages. Make sure you address foundation repair needs as soon as possible. If you plan on turning your basement into a functional space, foundation repair is a must.

Keep an eye out for signs that you have foundation issues. For instance:

Cracks in the foundation

Cracks in the floor of your home

Floors that bulge or sag

Doors and windows that appear misaligned (do not close properly or stick when opening them)

Cracks in the interior walls of your home (particularly where the wall and ceiling meet or in corners)

At the first sign of any foundation issues, you should contact one of our professionals to assist you. Typically, it is best to either slab jack or pier the foundation to repair it. Either method makes your foundation more stable. Fortunately, you do not have to evacuate your while repairs take place.

If you do not address foundation issues, it can negatively affect your basement. Cracks in the foundation will allow moisture to seep in. Moisture build-up in the basement can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can lead to health issues. Address foundation issues before you consider basement remodeling.

Waterproof Your Basement

Structural issues with your basement are often the most common source of a wet or leaky basement. However, other issues might lead to moisture buildup, such as plumbing issues. Fortunately, waterproofing your basement can provide unwanted issues.

Once you tackle foundation repair, you will be well on your way to waterproofing your basement. The goal is to have a basement that stays clean and dry, so it is free of unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.

It is rather easy to waterproof your basement. Addressing foundation repairs can help minimize leaks and other moisture issues. However, you should still seal the basement properly. Fill any gaps you find in your basement walls with cement. Once you seal all the gaps you find, use waterproof masonry paint on the walls. The paint helps keep your basement clean and dry.

Basement Refinishing vs. Basement Remodeling

Are you considering refinishing or remodeling your basement? Are you suddenly looking at that question and wondering what the difference is between the two? There is a distinct difference between refinishing and remodeling a basement. Knowing what the difference is can help you decide which option is best for you.

Basement Refinishing

When you refinish a basement, you change how the space looks, but the layout and functionality remain the same. Refinishing involves the addition of flooring and drywall. You would also typically encase pipes or ductwork, so you have nothing remotely visual displeasing to look at.

One of the benefits you will find when it comes to refinishing your basement is that you have a cleaner, more modern looking space. You can convert a dark, dreary basement into a space that is functional for storage, entertaining, and more. The space of your basement will give you more room to work with as you determine how best to use it.

Basement Remodeling

Basement remodeling will also include the installation of flooring and drywall. However, a basement remodel will entail a lot more details, too. Often remodeling your basement will include additional plumbing, alterations to the basement’s layout, and the inclusion of electrical work, such as running wires and outlets throughout the space.

Typically, you would opt for a basement remodel if you wish to convert the basement into a basement, an additional living room, a craft room, an office, or even a man cave or woman cave. A man cave serves as a nice area of the home where men can retreat after a long day at work. They can kick back, relax, enjoy their favorite sports games, and not disturb the rest of the house with whoops and cheers.

A woman’s cave is similar. A woman can also relax after a long day at work in a space that is clearly defined as her own. Perhaps she wants a space where she can take her mind off daily tasks, such as a place where she can kick back and enjoy her favorite TV shows while sipping on a glass of wine.

With a basement remodel, your basement doesn’t just look different. The entire layout of the space changes to meet your wants, needs, and demands of your home and family. Make sure you work with a professional like us rather than tackling any refinishing or remodeling. Both jobs can entail quite a bit of work, and if done wrong, it can cost you a lot of money.

Suggestions for Your Basement

If you are unsure what to do with the basement of your home, take into consideration what it is you want and need. For instance, is your family growing? Do you need additional space for family members? If so, consider converting the basement into a suite.

Would you rather have additional space where you can entertain friends and family? If so, you can convert your basement into an additional living room or even a game room. Purchase a mini bar and add a pool table to the space where you and your guests can hang out and enjoy each other’s company. If you have the funds, you can even consider the addition of a wet bar.

If you have been dreaming up diverse ways to convert your basement into a functional space, give us a call. We here at ALD are happy to help you turn your visions into a reality. Our level of professionalism and knowledge can help you get the job done so you can enjoy your newly designed space.