The task of finishing the basement for your Denver home can be a daunting prospect. It can be hard to know exactly where to start, and what to look at in regards to making your unfinished basement on par with the rest of your home. There are a few important factors to become aware of if you are in the process of completing the bottom portion of your house.
Cost
First, and perhaps most important, is the cost of the project. It is important to clearly define how much you are able to spend prior to beginning this project. This will allow you to get a better sense of what you are able to accomplish.
The last thing you want to do is plan the basement of your dreams, only to realize you won’t have the funds to complete it. By understanding your price range, you will be better suited to make decisions that will speed the project along efficiently and economically.
Moisture
One of the biggest things to be aware of is issues relating to moisture, and how it can affect or even damage any remodeling you do. Basements are the most susceptible to moisture issues due to depth. According to Energy Star, the biggest way moisture enters a basement is through the concrete foundation.
Minor moisture issues can be treated using water lock paint, but major issues can make the project much less feasible. If you live in a climate that has high amounts of moisture and humidity, basements may be much less practical.
Walls
In order to give your basement the feel of an aesthetically pleasing space, you will want to divide your basement into different sections. It’s unlikely you’ll want to just finish the space without making any wall adjustments or additions, as unfinished basements are not designed with livability in mind.
The placement of walls also has the advantage of hiding electrical wires and plumbing, as exposed wires and pipes are not going to be an attractive sight for your guests to see when they enter the space. These walls can allow you to create an additional bedroom or bathroom if you desire, which stresses the need for a well-planned basement project.
Primary Use
Prior to finishing your basement, you will need to ask yourself what you intend to use this newly christened space for. Will it be an entertainment space? If so, do you want it to be focused around the position of the television or another arrangement?
It’s important to be honest and realistic with yourself prior to taking the plunge into this project, as it would be unfortunate to have a finished basement that doesn’t meet or serve your true needs. Once you determine what you will be using the space for, it will become much easier to make choices of both the stylistic and functional varieties.
If you are interested in learning more, contact S.F. Inc for more information and one of our associates will be happy to answer any questions you may have about basement finishing and remodeling projects.