If you’re looking for a great way to add value and space to your home, then finishing your basement is a great idea. There are a lot of things to keep in mind before you start a basement renovation and L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc spotlight them below.

Where to Start when Finishing a Basement

1. Keep it dry. Before you start any renovations in your basement you’ll need to make sure there aren’t any water issues. Signs to look for are pools of water or drips that are coming out of below-grade walls. Outside, you’ll need to make sure the ground is graded away from your foundation. Cracks in the foundation will need go be repaired before any work starts.
2. Follow codes. After moisture problems have been resolved, you’ll need to see if you need any permits to renovate your basement. This is very important is you’re doing any plumbing or electrical work that will most likely need to be inspected.
3. Fasteners. Proper fasteners will need to be used in basements because nails and screws won’t cut it with masonry. These fasteners or anchors will work to make sure everything is solid.
4. Vapor barrier. After you’ve taken care of moisture issues, your basement is an area that can be damp. Adding a vapor barrier to the walls and the floors will prevent extra moisture in your basement.
5. Offset space. Even if you’ve added the vapor barrier you may still experience moisture issues. If you create a slight offset space from the outside wall with slats of wood or metal, it will level out a wall that might not be complete straight.
6. Keep warm in and cold out. Insulation works to control the temperature in your basement, but it also adds a layer of moisture control. Insulation also works as a sound barrier from outside noise. Go for installation that has a vapor barrier on both sides of it.
7. Drop ceilings. If you want to hide electrical and plumbing work, then you should think about a drop ceiling. There are lots of options to chose from so you don’t get that office look. Just remember that you will have less overhead space.
8. Recessed lighting. If you have less overhead space, then you should consider recessed lighting. Recessed lighting won’t take up space and if you’re going with a drop ceiling, it’s an easy thing to add.
9. Baseboards. If you want to add extra warmth to your basement then consider warmth at the baseboards. You don’t want to rely on space heaters in a finished basement, so baseboard heating may be a good option.
10. Utility room. Keep the area that houses your HVAC unit(s) and water heater unfinished. This space needs to be left open and clear for inspections or repairs. If you want to avoid problems in the future, do not finish this space off.

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Turn your unfinished basement into a beautiful and functional space for your family to spend more time together. Contact L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc. to go over all your options and see what we can do for you. Give us a call today!