As compared to the 1950s, the size of American homes has almost doubled and reached an average of 2,500 square feet. One of the reasons behind this is due to most people inclining towards having basements in their homes. Speaking of basements, some people view them as dark areas meant for storing old toys and seasonal decorations.

If this sounds like you, maybe it’s time that you gave your basement a new lease of life. With basement remodeling, you can suddenly have a basement family room, basement wet bar, you name it. However, you’ve got to do your part to get the best results. Discussed below are basement finishing tips to help you out.

1. Resolve Basement Water Issues

If your basement every so often has issues to do with flooding and dampness, it would be prudent to solve the problem first. Keep in mind that the end results during basement renovation will only be as good as the work quality behind it. This calls for solving issues like flooding that might stand in the way of a successful basement renovation. Finding a permanent solution might seem hard. However, seeking help from a basement remodeling company will help stop the flooding issue.

2. Figure out the Best Use for Your Basement

Designing the area for a precise purpose is among the best decisions you can ever make during basement finishing. From home gymnasiums to recreational areas and home theaters to anything in between, your basement can be converted to many things. It’s always advisable to have a clear picture of what you would want beforehand. The cost of basement finishing can go higher after requesting alterations halfway through the job.

3. Professional Basement Designing

Your basement could be an eyesore right now, but you would like to be the proud owner of an attractive living space after renovation. A word from professionals such as interior designers and architects can be all it takes to get an amazing result. Though this might seem like an added cost, the end result will be worth every dime shelled out.

4. Boost Basement Airflow

There were probably few basement vents when your house was first being constructed. When going about basement finishing, adding openings will help enhance optimal air circulation. Installing a return air duct will also be a good idea, but ensure that it’s not near the furnace. This is because a return air duct in close proximity to the furnace might channel toxic fumes back to your home. A basement carbon monoxide detector will warn you in advance about any furnace issues.

5. Take Advantage of Natural Light

Welcoming more natural light to any basement transforms the space for the better. If a section of your basement is above the ground, enlarging existing windows or adding new ones is advised. If that’s difficult, window wells are yet another great option, but ensure they have waterproof covers to avoid water issues.

Keep in mind that large windows can be lifesavers in the event of a fire outbreak. However, they provide an easy entry route for housebreakers. Instead of installing conventional windows, glass bricks will lockout anyone with sinister motives. Interior walls with windows will also help maximize on available natural light.

6. Artificial Light

Basement ceilings are basically low and this makes occupants feel as though they are in a cave, right? Projecting pools of light on the ceiling using indirect lighting can help offset this. In fact, this helps open up basement spaces by creating the illusion that a room is higher than it actually is. Coupling customary recessed lighting with such up-lighting can help create numerous lighting modes. Feel free to mount mirrors on the ceilings or walls if amplifying light effects is what you have in mind.

7. Basement Insulation

There is no better way to keep your basement dry and comfortable than through proper insulation. Apart from locking out the cold, insulation plays a major role in preventing condensation. Condensation causes mildew and mold issues that put your health at risk.

Final Word

Basement finishing might seem like a delicate balancing act. However, the process becomes way much easier if you know how to get the best results. These tips will point you in the right direction.