Easy Basement Remodeling

Archive for the ‘Basement Decor’ Category

Many people neglect the important living space that their basement could offer.

Many people neglect the important living space that their basement could offer. With a little creativity and time you should be able to turn your unused space into a great family room or den. When it comes to your basement flooring both moisture and warmth are an issue. Even if your floor looks dry, take a closer look for cracks or other opening that could allow moisture to enter and get trapped beneath your new flooring. You have many options for your basement floor depending on your personal style and budget.

Engineered Hardwood Floors
Three to five layers of various hardwoods are used to make this flooring. Each new layer is placed at a 90 degree angle to the layer beneath it. This prevents a lot of the issues that are associated with moisture such as expansion, contraction, and warping. To create a tight bond between each layer they are glued and then laminated under heat and pressure. These floors are easy to maintain and add a sense of beauty and warmth to your basement space.

Slate and Ceramic Tile
While both these materials can be cold to the touch, a few well placed throw rugs should fix that. It is easy to install ceramic tiles over your existing concrete floor. Like concrete, your ceramic tiles are vulnerable to the conditions underneath them. You will need to take measures to protect your tile from the impact of any cracks in the floor. A basement floor that has steel rods running through the concrete will help protect your ceramic tiles from the cracks and fractures that movement can cause. Another great idea is to have the concrete floor and the tiles move separately by installing a crack isolation membrane under your tiles. Staining or painting your concrete sub-floor is another option.

Carpeting You can definitely add warmth and beauty to your basement with the addition of carpeting. To help them resist microbes your carpet will need to be regularly cleaned. Those with asthma or allergies may wan to think twice before installing carpet in their basement as it can cause irritation. While dehumidifiers will reduce basement floor condensation they will not get rid of it entirely. Area rugs are a great alternative for those who want to avoid the risks posed by installing carpet. Area rugs can be much more easily cleaned on a regular basis.

You can make efficient use of the space in your basement by finishing it. You can use your clean and dry finished basement for relaxation, entertainment, storage, work, guest quarters, and so much more. You can increase the durability of your basement by taking certain measure during the finishing process.

Basement Finishing The Basics
When finishing your basement you need to take basic steps to protect the space including installing a waterproofing system to protect against water leakage and floods and constructing a vapor barrier. You can determine how much work this process will be by conducting an inspection of your basement. You can prevent damage to your finished walls and flooring by installing a waterproofing coating. You can also help prevent flooding by installing a pump system. You may also need to conduct some exterior maintenance as part of your basement finishing project.

Creating a Comfortable Space
You will enjoy spending time in your basement if the floor is warm and dry. Carpet is usually not the best choice for basement finishing as it traps water and can become moldy, musty, and even rot. An easy to maintain waterproof floor matting system is much more practical. You want to protect your basement against any type of damage that could result from plumbing problems or poor building methods.

A Final Thought on Basement Finishing
You can finish a new or existing basement. You can extend the useful life of the basement as well as make it into another comfortable living space for your home by simply taking a few precautions. You can turn your basement from a smelly mess into one of your favorite rooms in the house. If you give your basement the same kind of attention that you give the rest of your home it will be a delight to spend time there.

You can really improve the look of your entire home by adding some new touches to your basement.

You can really improve the look of your entire home by adding some new touches to your basement. Think carefully about the layout of your basement when remodeling. Nice touches are collections of photos which add warmth and book shelves which give you more usable space. Always hire a professional to install electrical appliances and ductwork. There are codes and regulations surrounding the installation of some appliances that professionals are aware of. You can create a whole new look in your basement by re-constructing your basement ceiling.

Creating a Unique Space There are so many uses for a remodeled basement, including bedrooms, bathrooms, bar, home gym, game room, home office, and home theater. With all these possibilities it makes sense to make improvements to windows, water proofing, insulation, heating, etc. to create a wonderful livable space. You can decorate the space using warm paint colors, and matching curtains and bed linens. A kids play room can also include an area with educational toys and learning materials. You have lots of options when it comes to lighting including recessed lighting, chandeliers, and pendants.

A Well Planned Space You want to create a warm and inviting space through your selection of furniture and accessories, including floor and wall coverings. Other important touches include polyurethane sealant for moisture protection. You can get great tips on basement layout decorating options from the many online do-it-yourself decorating guides. Lighting will be a vital element to the success of your basement decorating scheme as basements tend to be very dark. They are many different types of materials that can be used to create the basement of your dreams.