Common Basement Remodeling Issues

With every major home improvement, homeowners have to address a list of issues particular to their remodeling project. Basement remodeling is no different. If you want to transform your unused basement in a home office, a kids’ playroom, or a spare bedroom, you should keep an eye out for certain problems.

Moisture Problems

One of the most prevalent issues homeowners face when remodeling a basement is moisture. Whether you approach the renovation as a DIY project or you’re planning to hire contractors, before you can think about bringing in new materials, you need to address any water issues and condensation problems. These issues are often resolved with the installation of any one of several types of basement waterproofing systems.

Moisture Problems

While the process can be expensive and time consuming, incorrectly waterproofing your basement or skipping the step altogether could prove disastrous in the long run. You won’t only have to worry about possible water damage to your beautiful new walls and flooring, but you’ll have to cope with potential mold and mildew problems.

Radon Concerns

Radon is another major concern to address during basement remodeling projects. Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that can cause lung cancer, even increasing the risk for smokers. It is known to build up in enclosed spaces with homes – like basements – and about 1 in every 15 US homes has an issue with radon. Testing for the gas is inexpensive and easy, and you should always test before a major home improvement.

Radon Concerns

Once you have your results in hand, you can decide whether you need to take action to fix the issue. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that if you detect radon above acceptable levels in your home, you should turn to an experienced and qualified contractor to lower your radon levels.

Contractor Issues

When it comes to contractors, whether you’re hiring someone to protect your home again radon or you’re searching for someone to complete you basement remodel, you should use caution when making your choice. Be sure to ask contractors for references that you can call and follow up on, and be sure to get more than one estimate for the work you need done.

Contractor Issues

You should also ask every contractor if they’re willing to pull permits for the project. During the research process, you may want to search the Internet for reviews on your local contractor. By being thorough throughout your search, you help protect yourself against shoddy workmanship and billing surprises.

Other Problems

After you’ve found solutions to these health and construction issues, you’ll need to address more utilitarian and aesthetic concerns. For instance to be sure that the room you want to create in your basement has proper lighting, you’ll need to plan. Take into consideration the lack of ambient light in most basements, which makes it necessary to use more lighting than you might need in other above-grade rooms. You should also think about any restrictions a low ceiling presents when you select the type of lighting you want. Most importantly, always keep in mind how you see people utilizing this area of your home. For example, a spare bedroom will require different lighting than a game room with a bar or a home theater.

Although addressing all of these problems can be stressful and perhaps expensive, in the long run, you’ll have a beautiful new room to enjoy for years to come.