Basements can often be overlooked when considering home renovation, yet they offer several potential rooms to use as living space.
Basements offer endless possibilities, from providing playroom for your children to creating income-generating space. Here are some tips to turn your basement into the space of your dreams!
Basement Renovation
Before starting any basement renovation, it’s essential that you and your contractors create plans and specifications. This will make the process smoother as they collaborate to complete your project.
Your plans must include everything from how many square feet of finished space you desire, through to paint color, lighting fixtures, ceiling height and flooring choices as well as electrical, electronic and plumbing outlets necessary for completion of the job.
Make sure your basement is properly insulated to keep it warm in winter and cool in summer, and to help prevent mold or mildew growth in unfinished spaces. Insulating also reduces energy costs associated with heating or cooling the area.
One of the first steps of any Hamilton basement renovation should be clearing away all the clutter currently filling its space. While this task may seem daunting, it is vital for turning your basement into an inhabitable living area.
Plan for any unexpected repairs during or after a renovation by setting aside part of your budget specifically for emergencies that might arise during or after the project. Doing this can save time and money.
Residential Building Renovation Permit
No matter your plans for your basement renovation or storage area creation, it’s essential that you follow all necessary steps. First and foremost, obtain a residential building renovation permit.
Building permits are necessary for many home remodeling projects, including roofing and siding replacements, demolition or addition. Furthermore, you require one if attempting to demolish part of your house or add on.
Your local city has its own requirements for building permits, so check their website or call them directly for more information.
Once you’ve decided that a building permit is necessary, the next step should be submitting plans and specifications to your city for review. These could include site plans, foundation plans and floor plans.
Plans must also include existing structures you plan to move or relocate as part of your project, so an inspector can easily see where your home will be constructed during construction.
At times, obtaining a building permit can take more time than anticipated, which is why hiring an expediter may be worthwhile – they can speed up your application process while making sure all of your concerns are taken care of quickly and efficiently.
Get Started Today!
Are You Remodeling Your Basement Now When undertaking major renovations, the best time and place to start planning your basement space is now. By considering how you want the space to function and designing the layout accordingly, as well as thinking about how your desired aesthetic and furniture choices should fit within this new area – or hiring professional designers as an added security.
Start small to overcome initial fear and set an achievable goal, like setting aside 10 minutes each day to work on something new. We have put together a collection of inspiring basement ideas to get your creative juices flowing – whether that means creating your own she shed, man cave or extra space for guests; we have something perfect here.