With growing families and shrinking yards, space is at a premium. It's time to tap into an unused area in your home, transforming it into a convenient and comfortable place to relax. Basement renovations are a fabulous way to create more living space in your home.
Some homes come with a partially finished basement; it could be that studs, insulation and vapor barrier are already up. Others are completely bare or will need extensive work. No matter what stage your basement reno starts at there are plenty of decision you'll need to make along the way.
Framing: Wood Vs. Steel
When framing the walls of your new basement layout, you can choose from wood or steel studs. Both have distinct advantages and enthusiastic fans.
Wood is the classic choice, versatile and easy to work with. Steel adds a level of strength, rot resistance and won't warp and crack like wood might. Prices tend to lean more towards wood studs. But with both types you have the option of choosing a smaller 2x3 which will bring the cost down even further.
Ceiling: Drop Vs. Drywall
Another choice you'll be faced with is the ceiling finish. You can hang drywall and mud for a smooth ceiling or opt for a paneled drop style.
Some homeowners swear by the drop ceiling, which is done using a metal frame and fiberglass panels. This style of ceiling is very versatile and makes for easy repairs - both to the ceiling and to any duct work, wiring and plumbing underneath. It also takes longer to install and tends to cost more.
Others take a more simple approach and simply drywall the entire room from floor to ceiling. The drywall can then be painted and provides a solid, durable surface.
Flooring: Carpet Vs. Hard Surface
When it comes to basement flooring, carpeting was traditionally the only option available. New possibilities have opened up the playing field and now you have more decisions to make.
Carpet is still a popular, with high density underpad that will offer cushion and moisture protection for the typical condensation found in basements. Berber is a good option, with excellent wear and reasonable costs. Shag is back in style as well, creating a stir with interesting textures and colors.
Hard surface flooring such as ceramic tile and hardwood are making their way into basements everywhere. Be sure to opt for engineered hardwood that is made to be installed below grade. It will flex and handle the moisture better than traditional hardwood. Ceramic is great for bathrooms and laundry space, easy to install on concrete and very durable.
Bathroom: Powder Vs. Full
Depending on how many bathrooms you currently have upstairs, you may or may not want to install one in the basement. Many new homes come with rough ins, making the plumbing easier. In other layouts a basement bathroom is simply a necessity.
Powder rooms will give the family a quick place to visit when necessary, but won't take up too much room. Simple to install and easy to keep clean, often powder rooms are all that's needed. Full three piece or even four piece bathrooms can be excellent additions to the basement renovation, providing a private space for overnight visitors and teens.
Creating the Ideal Space
Making these decisions can sometimes seem like the hard part, but with a little forethought and a good plan your basement renovations will be much smoother. And then your family can truly enjoy the new living space.
Posted by: TrustedProsSuggested Reading For You
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