Finishing your basement is one of the most practical ways to add useable space to your home in an affordable way.  Finishing your basement is nearly a third of the price of building an addition to your home (Basement Finishing Costs). 

 

There are many options for your basement finishing project: add an entertainment room, a home gym, wine cellar, game room, home office, etc.  Most home owners are looking to add and additional bedroom and bathroom to their basement. 

 

When you are thinking about the best way to make use of your basement space, consider utilizing the natural light that may be available from existing windows.  In some cases, an additional egress window can be added; however, there are often ways to make efficient use of the existing layout.

 

Many factors should be considered when planning to finish your basement.  Existing structural beams and walls should not be altered.  Additionally, existing electrical wires, plumbing and ventilation ducts must be factored into the design.

 

Your basement should be carefully evaluated for potential dampness and/or existing water damage.  Foundation walls should be carefully examined.  Additionally, your basement slab can actually wick water into your basement.  A careful examination must be made to avoid water problems after you’ve installed carpet.

 

Most homes have mechanicals in the basement.  Before proceeding with finishing your basement, it is a good idea to evaluate your existing furnace, air conditioner and ductwork can properly circulate air throughout your finished basement.

 

Basement ceiling heights are typically low.  To avoid feeling like you are in a cave, careful use of indirect and artificial light can help avoid the feeling of being in a cave.  Creative use of well placed lighting can really make a dramatic difference to your finished basement.

 

When you first look at an unfinished basement it can be difficult to see the many possibilities for your family. At first glance, a basement offers a huge amount of undefined space that is rough and bare and empty. On the one hand, it has unlimited possibilities, and it offers enough space for everything you can imagine. On the other hand, however, all that unfinished space can make it hard to imagine what your basement can look like when you finish remodeling it.

 

We recommend that you carefully consider hiring a qualified contractor to handle your basement finishing project.   In early 2007, R&D Construction performed a major renovation to the home of a local news personality, Mrs. Nadine Woodward, who had previously used a “handyman” to finish her basement.  The handyman failed to properly support the space above the basement which ultimately led to numerous structural problems throughout the rest of her home.  Re-doing the handyman’s work as well as repairing the damage to the rest of the home cost thousands of dollars. 

 

Invest your hard earned money wisely.  For most American families, their home is their most important financial investment.  A basement that is finished professionally will bring a better value to your home, but more importantly, a well designed professionally finished basement will greatly enhance the quality of your life.