Finished basements provide extra living space and can boost your home’s value. They can also add a cozy family room or movie theater, and an additional suite for guests and renters.
Obtaining building permits before starting your basement renovation is an essential step. These mandates dictate aspects such as electrical wiring, plumbing and insulation. Contact Finishing Basement Lehi for professional help.
A finished basement adds value to a home and can be an excellent gathering place for family and friends. However, it can be expensive to do. However, there are ways to keep costs down and still get the space you desire. The first step is to determine how much you want to spend.
The cost of finishing a basement will depend on the size and type of work involved. Labour, materials and extras will all affect the total cost of the project. Labour costs will depend on whether you are hiring a general contractor or doing it yourself. Generally, labor costs are around $40 to $50 per hour. The cost of materials will depend on what type of finishes you choose, and can range from paint to flooring to drywall. Additional costs will include plumbing, electrical wiring, and any specialized work required to complete the project.
It is also important to consider what you want the space to be used for, as this will help you determine the amount of work needed and the appropriate budget. For example, if you plan to use the space as a family room, you may want to consider installing a fireplace and large flat screen television. If you plan to use the space as a recreation room, you may want to add in a wet bar and comfortable seating. It is also helpful to declutter the space prior to starting the remodel, and to rent a self-storage unit or a peer-to-peer storage marketplace like Neighbor to store items during construction.
Another cost consideration is the type of flooring you plan to install in the basement. Surface flooring options include carpet, hardwood, tile, laminate and concrete. The most expensive option is hardworks and can run up to $15 per square foot. The best choice is to consult a specialist about the pros and cons of each type of flooring, and to select a design that meets your functional requirements and lifestyle.
Finally, it is also important to consider the costs of any appliances you plan to add to the basement. This can include a refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher and stove (which could be gas or electric). Running a kitchen line will also require a permit, and can increase the overall cost of the project.
Design
The design process for a basement finishing project can be complex. It is important to consider the function of the space and any special needs that it will serve. This will help you determine the type of rooms you need and how they will be laid out. Having a clear vision for the space will make it easier to stay within your budget and finish on time. It is also important to make sure that the basement’s design flows well with the rest of the home. For example, if you want to use the basement as a home theatre, it is best not to put in a dining room in the same area.
Another important consideration is zoning and code issues. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the local building codes and requirements for basements before starting any work. It would be a huge annoyance to find out that your basement was constructed in violation of the building code, and it could even affect your ability to sell the house in the future.
Depending on your budget and skills, you can choose to finish your basement yourself or hire professionals. Hiring professionals may cost more, but they can save you time and money in the long run by ensuring that the job is completed to your satisfaction. Additionally, professional contractors have the experience and skills to handle any unexpected issues that might arise during construction.
Before beginning the construction phase, it is a good idea to consult with your local planning department for information on building codes and regulations for basements. You should also speak with your insurance broker to discuss the impact that your renovations may have on your coverage. In many cases, basements require additional protection against water damage, and in some instances, you may need to upgrade your policy to reflect the changes.
A finished basement can add value to your home and increase its appeal for potential buyers. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including entertainment areas, home offices, guest suites, and fitness centers. Adding a bathroom to the basement is also an excellent option. This will give you more privacy for guests, and it will make the space feel more like part of the home.
Tools
A basement renovation is a great way to increase the usable square footage of your home without having to buy a larger house. A finished basement can be used as an extra bedroom, family room, office, or gym. It is also a good place to store tools, furniture, and other household items. However, you should always take the necessary safety precautions to ensure that your project is completed properly and that the space is safe for your family.
Before you begin working on your basement, you will need a few basic tools. These include a power drill, circular saw, and reciprocating saw. These are all useful tools that will make it easier to complete your basement project on time and within budget. You will also need an air compressor, which is essential for powering pneumatic tools like nail guns and paint sprayers. It is important to invest in a good quality compressor with a high tank capacity and adjustable pressure settings.
Another important tool is a framing square, which is essential for marking precise angles and lines. This L-shaped tool consists of a long arm and a shorter perpendicular arm that forms a right angle. You can use this tool to mark straight cuts, determine the correct angles for framing walls, and ensure that all of your work is square and level. A high-quality framing square should have a lockable case and be easy to read.
If you are planning on hanging drywall in your basement, it is a good idea to do so horizontally rather than vertically. This will create fewer seams and be easier to finish. You should also make sure that all of your drywall is secured to the studs with drywall screws. Once the drywall is installed, you should caulk around all seams to prevent leaks and cracks.
A final tip is to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your basement, just as you would in any other room of your house. In addition, you should be sure to test your detectors and replace the batteries regularly.
Safety
While it may be tempting to save money by completing some parts of your basement remodeling project on your own, it’s crucial to take safety precautions. The structural integrity of the foundation is essential and you must address any issues that are found. For example, if there are any cracks or shifts in the foundation, you must have them assessed by a professional.
You should also make sure that any electrical work is done by a licensed professional. GFCI outlets should be installed in areas prone to moisture, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be installed throughout the home, including the basement. It’s also important to ensure that any new construction adheres to fire safety codes.
Another potential hazard to consider is the presence of radon in your home. If you have a finished basement, it’s likely that it contains ductwork and other pipes that could introduce radon into the living spaces above. This is an especially serious issue in older homes. A radon test should be performed before starting any renovations in the basement.
In addition to ensuring that all work is completed by a qualified design professional, you should also consult with your insurance broker to make sure that the work is covered during the remodeling process. Because basements are more prone to water intrusion than other areas of the home, it’s important to discuss your options with your insurance agent and understand the impact that remodeling can have on your coverage.
Once the design has been finalized and the building permits have been obtained, you can begin the construction phase. This typically lasts 4-8 weeks and includes framing, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, insulation installation, and drywall installation. During this phase, local building officials may conduct inspections to ensure that all work meets safety and code requirements. It’s also a good idea to review the contractor’s license and disciplinary record before hiring them for any work on your home. This can help to prevent fraudulent contractors and protect you from shoddy workmanship.