If you are wanting to add more space to your home and have a basement, you should consider remodeling it instead of adding on to your house. Even if your basement is currently just a concrete-lined space that is cram-packed with stored boxes, you can turn it into a usable space for your home. Remodeling your basement instead of building on an addition may also save you much more money while giving your family the room that they need. It is important that you find a good contractor, understand budgeting for your renovation, and avoid the mistakes that most people commonly make. That’s where we come in! Follow along below for some useful tips before you start remodeling.
How Do You Find a Good Contractor?
Finding the right contractor is important when you plan to remodel your basement and transform it into living space. In order to help you to make the right decision, you should ask any contractor you’re considering as many questions as possible. Ask the contractor how long they’ve been in business. It’s a good idea to choose someone who’s been completing renovation work for at least five years. Here are some other questions to ask your contractor:
- Does the company specialize in basements, or is it a full-service firm?
- Is the contractor licensed?
- Is the contractor insured and for how much?
- Can you see examples of the contractor’s prior work?
- Can you get the names of past customers, or their testimonials?
When you are given the names of past customers, take the time to reach out to them, and ask them what they thought about the contractor and the work that they received in their homes.
How Much Should You Budget for a Basement Renovation?
The amount that you should budget for your basement renovation project will depend on the results that you envision and whether you will do some of the work yourself. In general, basement renovations can be expected to cost from $10 to $35 per square foot. If you plan to do some of the work yourself, you might budget your project on the lower end of the range. If you plan to hire a contractor to do the work, budget your project in the upper portion of the range. For example, if your basement is 1,000 square feet, you might budget anywhere from $10,000 to $35,000 for it. High-end basement remodels may be expected to cost upwards of $40,000.
Where Can You Find Deals on Windows?
If you’re trying to find the best deals on windows for your basement renovation project, it’s important for you to plan your project well in advance. One common way that costs can quickly go up is when you order windows that arrive after they should or if they’re broken and must be sent back. Local building stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s often have good deals on windows. You might save money by choosing your windows there and placing your order. Many of these big box retailers offer free advice while you are shopping, and they may deliver your windows directly to your home for you. You can also look online to find deals on windows such as on Amazon or eBay. Finally, you can choose to purchase windows secondhand at retailers who sell materials taken from luxury homes during their own remodeling jobs. When you are looking for windows, make sure that you have the measurements on hand and don’t forget about the egress rules for basements in your area.
Which Types of Remodels Add the Most Value to Your Home?
Certain types of remodeling projects add more value to homes than others. Bathroom and kitchen remodels return the most bang for your buck followed by landscaping and exterior updates. Basement remodels also return a significant amount of your investment if you decide to sell your home. On average, a basement renovation can be expected to return 90.1 percent on investment. Having the added living space while you stay in your home can be invaluable to you and your family as well.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?
There are several common mistakes that people sometimes make when they refinish their basements. If your basement is prone to flooding, you might want to reconsider renovating it all together. Instead, consider adding space to your home or consult with a contractor about drainage that can allow you to keep your basement flood-free.
It is also important for you to make certain that you install the right wall materials. If you don’t, they may be susceptible to damage from the moisture of the concrete. When you are remodeling your basement, don’t cover up your existing drains. This can cause your basement to flood. Make sure to install a backup sump pump system to provide further protection to your newly renovated basement at times when your basement is most prone to flooding. Finally, don’t forget to place a layer of subfloor on top of the concrete and beneath the flooring that you will install. This will help to prevent the floors from feeling cold.
Do You Need a Building Permit?
If your city or county requires that you get a permit to renovate your basement, then you will need to get one. You can call your city or county to determine if you need one. You will also want to ask about the requirements for basement ingress and egress. There are codes that are in place that must be followed for basements so that firefighters are able to access them, and people are able to get out if a fire happens. These requirements include rules for stairs, window sizes, and window wells. Make sure that you know these rules and plan accordingly.
Remodeling your basement can give you the added living space that you need while saving you money. By planning well in advance and finding a good contractor, you can transform your basement into the space that you envision.
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