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asement makeovers.
According to Justin Simonet, there are two steps to consider in
basement renovations. Step one is to determine if you have a
water/moisture problem. A mild case of water intrusion will show
on the walls. This is called efflorescence, which is the migration of a
salt to the surface of a porous material, where it forms a coating. This
can be treated inexpensively using a brush cleaning and a masonry
paint like UGL Drylok. If your water problem is more prominent
like standing water on the slab floor or pouring through the walls
with a heavy rain storm, dramatic basement waterproofing is required.
This can be achieved by a reputable basement waterproofing
contractor installing a French drain piping system, dimple board,
and sump pump. “After these steps are taken, I usually inform my
clients to wait at least a year before finishing the space. This way you
can be certain the waterproofing has worked and your new space
will be dry and unharmed by moisture for years to come.”
Step two to your basement remodel, Simonet says, is to
find a reputable design/build contractor and/or architect.
The professional will know the latest in basement
technology. For instance, according to Simonet, basement
partition wall framing has moved from wood to
steel stud construction. The environment in a basement tends to have
more moisture than the first or second floor of the home. Mold is
less of a problem on a steel frame versus wood. The only disadvantage
of using steel versus wood is that the electrical wires need a plastic
insert or insulator through every stud or steel penetration that they
cross. If you have the budget, go for the under tile floor heating. He
says that it can be costly, but money well spent, especially on a slab
floor. In addition, Simonet always uses a drywall contractor to hang
and finish the drywall. “I highly recommend this step being left to
a professional. The spackle work is an art and a bad job will reflect
in the finished product and haunt you forever. Remember that a finished
basement will add much needed space to your growing family
and great resale value to any home if done properly.”
When it comes to planning basement makeovers, Susan M.
Rochelle, AIA, Architect offers homeowners six important tips. One,
if you can get the laundry room out of the basement, go for it. Two,
consider putting a bathroom in the basement, especially if the redesigned
space will be used often. Three, have the ductwork rerouted
to the perimeter of the room so that the central area of the basement
is higher. Four, you will need a safe way of existing the basement in
the event of an emergency. The new design should include such elements
as French doors, sliding glass doors, a large window, or a large
area well. Five, think of having your finished basement be open to
grade. You can have sliding doors that walk right out to the backyard.
This way, when you are in the basement, you do not feel as much
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