4 Tips for Finishing a Basement

Basement

Some homeowners are completely content to keep their basement relatively out of sight and mind. They don’t really mind that there’s an unfinished or partially finished space right underneath them, because, frankly, they don’t have much use for it.

That doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. With the scarcity of great real estate in modern urban centers and the skyrocketing price of homes, you would think that a homeowner would want to squeeze some life out of every little, liveable corner of their home.

That’s why many experts recommend you consider finishing your basement, making it either liveable (in which case you could rent it to help pay the mortgage, or offer it to a family member), or recreational (in which case it functions as a rec room). To help you on your way toward a finished basement, this article will discuss four key tips to bear in mind.

Plan the Layout for Usability:

Planning the layout of a basement is often the most consequential part of the process – it creates a blueprint for everything to come. Have utility and functionality in mind when planning the layout: if it is meant to be liveable, how can you make it more liveable? If it is meant to be recreational, what would you like the basement’s centerpieces to be? In either case, plan the main areas around natural light and open space. Give thought to the flow of rooms, starting with when you walk downstairs.

Protect Your Basement from Water:

The single greatest threat to a finished basement is water. Being the lowest space in a house, a basement is also the most susceptible. Hire a professional to consult on waterproofing, and get yourself two sump pumps, including a battery backup for your existing sump pump – you’ll need a plumber to aid in installation, but it’s worth it for sheer risk management.

Budget for the Use of Professionals:

Working off that last point, here’s an important, broad tip that homeowners should keep in mind: budget for bringing in pros. So many homeowners convince themselves that DIY construction, electrical, plumbing, etc. is going to be easy, only to find that it is incredibly complicated and that incorrect execution can have big consequences for the final product. There’s no shame in calling in pros, and, in fact, it might save you money in the long run.

Don’t Discount Looks:

As discussed, functionality is a crucial part of putting together a finished basement… but so is aesthetics. Consider trim for the walls, wainscoting, good flooring, and pleasing light fixtures. Put thought into the color and brightness of the room, as well as the arrangement of its furniture and components. Install and maintain good windows and, as a final touch, add some art to the walls. Don’t be afraid to head to the internet for inspiration. This collection of 50 basements remodels in a great place to start!

Don’t leave a whole floor of your home unfinished –start thinking about your dream basement today!

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Stunning Bathroom Vanities-min

Stunning Bathroom Vanities For An Instant Makeover

If you're planning a bathroom makeover, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the perfect vanity. A vanity serves as the focal point of the bathroom and can bring the entire space together. With numerous options on the market, finding the ideal vanity can seem overwhelming. By considering a few key factors, though, you can choose a vanity that completely transforms the look, feel, and functionality of your bathroom. Why Is A Bathroom Makeover Needed? Just like any other part of the house, our bathrooms also deserve the best look. And it’s not like you have to invest in a lot of expensive fixtures that will end up with all your savings. With just a few simple tips and tricks, you can give your bathroom a nice makeover. Given below are a few reasons why your bathroom needs a makeover right away.  It Combines Value To The Abode No matter what the size of your washroom is, it still remains to be an indispensable segment of your abode. A house that has a renovated bathroom looks extremely organized, and people would want to visit it time and again. In case somebody is selling their home, an alluring bathroom will simply add up to the selling cost.  Boosts Positivity And Energy Efficiency Installing several features at the time of remodeling reduces your energy bill to almost half. Among these are underfloor heating, low-flow toilers, and excellent fixtures which save both water and electricity. Boost your home’s overall positivity by installing windows with ample light and air circulation.  A Personal Escape For Many Your bathroom is not a dump yard, it is also the place where you get some personal time to spend. After a day full of strenuous job, it should be the place that provides you relaxation and peace of mind. But in order to make a bathroom relaxing, you need to make some changes to the fixtures and lighting.  Change The Functionality  Suppose you have a small baby at home who can’t reach upto the shower. You might need to install a bathtub with warm water running on it. A bathroom makeover ensures that you change its function as and when required. The key to a great home is having an even better and multi-functional bathroom.  Steps To Build A Bathroom Of Your Dreams Getting a bathroom that you can call your own is not an overnight process. There are various steps included that lead you to your destination, and today we are talking about a few important ones: Size Is Essential Before diving into vanity options, carefully evaluate the available space in your bathroom. Take accurate measurements of the area where the vanity will be placed. Consider the width, height, and depth, as well as any obstructions such as doors or windows. Think about clearance for the doors and drawers in the vanity as well. These factors will help you figure out the appropriate size and configuration for your vanity. With so many choices available from companies like Unique Vanities, finding one that's the right size without sacrificing other features shouldn't be difficult. Explore Vanity Styles Every bathroom is unique, whether it's modern, traditional, rustic, or eclectic. Choose a vanity that fits in with your design theme. Consider the materials, finishes, and design elements that will meld with the overall aesthetic of the space. For example, a sleek and minimalist vanity with clean lines is perfect for a modern bathroom, whereas a vintage-inspired vanity with intricate detailing may foster a traditional or farmhouse style. Consider Your Storage Needs Storage is a crucial aspect of any bathroom vanity. Evaluate your storage needs based on your daily essentials, such as toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies. Determine whether you prefer open shelves, cabinets, or drawers for storing these items. If space is limited, opt for a vanity with clever storage solutions like built-in organizers or hidden compartments to maximize functionality. Having enough storage space and organization solutions will help you make the most of a bathroom makeover. Choose The Right Materials Materials play a significant role in a vanity's durability, maintenance requirements, and appearance. Popular options include wood, engineered wood, laminate, glass, metal, and natural stone. Wood offers a warm and timeless appeal, while glass gives off a sleek, elegant air. Consider factors such as moisture resistance and ease of cleaning when selecting the material. Engineered wood and laminate may be less costly, but they may sustain damage when exposed to moisture as they would be in a bathroom. Additionally, ensure that the materials you choose complement the other fixtures and finishes in your bathroom. Think About Sink Types Sinks are essential components of vanities and should be chosen carefully. Determine whether you prefer a single sink or double sink, depending on your usage and the available space. Choose a sink style that complements the design of the vanity. Options range from under-mount and vessel sinks to integrated versions. Consider factors like ease of cleaning, functionality, and visual appeal when making your selection.  Stick To A Statement Mirror A mirror in the bathroom says a lot. In this case, you get enough liberty to choose a mirror size of your choice. There’s oval, there’s flat, there’s a pentagon, and so many more options available. You just need to find the one. It acts as more than just equipment added for your primping skin routine. Such an enormous reflective surface also leads to the illusion of an ever larger space.  Making Your New Bathroom Pop Choosing the perfect vanity for a bathroom makeover requires careful consideration of space, style, storage needs, materials, sink types, and many other factors. Explore various options to help you find a vanity that meets your needs while enhancing the appearance of your bathroom. Remember, the right vanity can be a transformative element in your bathroom makeover, creating a beautiful and functional space that you'll enjoy for years to come. Give your children and your significant other what they can call their own. Read Also : Mirror Decorating Ideas To Style Your Bathroom Using Feng Shui In Your Bathroom Design The Different Kinds Of Toilets

READ MOREDetails
Pets and Kids

6 Tips for Keeping Your Home Clean (With Pets and Kids)

Maintaining a clean house is a difficult task; honestly, no one enjoys removing all the clutter, washing the dishes, dusting, vacuuming, etc. But as much as most of us run away from the chore we all know the importance of housekeeping and how it impacts our health. Things tend to get a bit, well maybe a lot more messy when you have kids and pets added to the picture. Our furry companions love some adventure around the house and tend to spread their food and water around while eating, knock things over and of course the pet hair around the house is another story. But the good news is that even a chore as tedious as cleaning can be made simple by following some hacks and tips, so keep reading as I share some marvelous tips for maintaining hygiene in your house 1. Invest in the Right Tools : You might not notice but using the right kind of tools can reduce effort and save time. For instance, cleaning pet hair around the house is one of the most challenging tasks. The fur gets everywhere, even gets embedded in the carpet fibers which becomes extremely difficult to remove. Well, the key is to purchase the right type of vacuum that has powerful suction to pick up the pesky pet hair. A robotic vacuum cleaner would be even better since it will save you a lot of effort. Similarly, make sure you have a quality lint roller (it is a life-saver in most situations) or latex gloves when you want to give your furniture or clothes a quick clean-up. 2. Bathe Your Pets : The secret to a clean house is clean pets since the dirt on your dog will eventually accumulate inside your home. Develop a bathing routine for your pup, be sure not to overdo it since you don’t want to dry out the oils in his skin. Use a good quality dog shampoo while bathing and get your pup regular grooming to reduce shedding. Since dogs that itch shed more hair, use tick and flea repellents for dogs to prevent him from these parasites. 3. Use the Right Type of Furniture : One of the worst nightmares for any pet-parent is when their furniture has pet hair spread all over, and they are expecting guests over. No one wants their guests to be covered in their dog’s fur! Well, let me tell you that choosing the right type of furniture can make all the difference.  While selecting fabric for your furniture, choose leather/pleather or microfiber as these are easy to clean and the hair doesn’t stick to the material. Ultra suede and Crypton are also excellent choices for furniture as they are stain-resistant. Pro-Tip: Also stock up some decorative throws and use these to cover your sofa and bed to prevent pet-hair from sticking to the furniture. 4. Wash Pet Bedding : It is essential to wash your pet’s bed, blankets as these may hide harmful germs which our pets can transfer to other areas of the house. Wash the bedding weekly using a mild detergent without bleach on the hottest settings available. 5. Keep the Pet’s Area Clean : Our pets do have a specific area in the house where they like to chill or where they eat. Keeping these areas clean might be a difficult task, but regular cleaning will help prevent messes and thereby reduce effort. If you have a pet-bird, the room where the cage is placed is bound to get messy. To make cleaning simple use vinyl carpet protectors on the floor beneath the cage. Invest in a good quality stainless steel cage as they are easier to clean. Also, line it up with cage liners or newspapers to prevent the bottom from getting messy due to food and feces. 6. Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Products : Various cleaning agents contain harmful substances such as ammonia or bleach that can be toxic to our pets. While hunting for cleaning products look for ones that are pet-safe, eco-friendly and bio-degradable. If you don’t have these stocked up at home, don't panic in case of a pet emergency, as you can find some fantastic cleaners inside your house. Baking soda is a great deodorizer to freshen up the carpets and rugs; vinegar mixed with water is an alternative to floor cleaners and can be handy when pet accidents occur. Read Also : Can Dogs Make The Anti-Social Kids Socialize Better? Can Dogs Help Writers Stay Positive During Stress? Best-Corded Vacuum Cleaner

READ MOREDetails
Epoxy Flooring

7 Advantages of Reflective Epoxy Flooring

Flooring trends come and go, and that’s not a bad thing when you think about the decade in which orange and brown patterned carpet was all the rage. It’s proof that not every trend is a good one, but some are more withstanding of changing tastes and times than others. Epoxy floors are a great example of flooring that stands the test of time despite the trendy nature of this type of concrete floor. If you’re thinking about epoxy concrete, here are some of the biggest benefits of this type of flooring. 7 Advantages of Reflective Epoxy Flooring: 1. It’s Durable: Durable flooring is hard to find when you have kids, pets, and even high heel shoes on the floor all the time. Reflective epoxy floors are among the most durable. They are able to withstand significant wear and tear, which means they are more affordable than other floors, too. You don’t have to replace them as often, which means less money comes out of your own pocket. 2. It’s Strong: When you use epoxy on your concrete floors, you make them strong. They’re less likely to break down when you use them, and the chemicals in the flooring are not going to break down as quickly. Furthermore, the chemicals you use to clean this kind of floor will not cause erosion, breakdown, or damage. That's big if you are into clean floors at home. 3. It’s Affordable: Imagine you have a beautiful home, but the floors are less than attractive. The builder used a builder-grade carpet, and you can’t handle it anymore. However, you don’t have the budget to redo the floors with tile or wood. Why not go with epoxy to save some money? It’s easy to rip out the old floor, spruce up the concrete below, and add epoxy to the top. It’s strong, beautiful, and it’s more cost-effective than other flooring options. 4. It’s Safe: What makes some people feel nervous about adding concrete epoxy floors to their home is the safety feature. Aren’t they slippery? Won’t you have a higher risk of falling? Will a small spill turn your home into a danger zone? The answer is no to all of the above. Epoxy is strong and safe. It’s not susceptible to slippage, impact, fire, and even temperatures that are extreme in nature. Your home is safer with this on the floor. 5. It’s Aesthetically Appealing: You want your home to look good, and you want it to show well when you host friends and family. This type of flooring gives you just that. It’s bright, it’s beautiful, it’s attractive, and it comes in any color, pattern, and design imaginable. You get to customize your own floors, and you can add anything you want. Imagine adding your family crest to the floor by the front door for added appeal. It’s almost too good to be true, but it’s easily done with a stencil. It’s even easier if you hire a professional to do the work for you. Renucrete Sydney Polished Concrete can help you create the perfect epoxy flooring in your home. 6. It’s Low-Maintenance: One of the most common misconceptions homeowners have regarding epoxy floors is about maintenance. Many people assume it’s hard to take care of it. It’s not easy to deal with, and it takes a lot of work. The truth is that it does none of the above. It’s exceptionally easy to maintain, and it can be cleaned regularly without the risk of damage. The epoxy removes the porous aspect of the concrete, which means your floors are even easier to maintain. 7. It’s Easily Changed: If you remodel your home and spend thousands of dollars on trendy wood floors, you love them for years. What happens, however, when you decide that grey wood flooring you loved so much a decade ago is no longer in style? You’re spending thousands more to replace it with something else. Your epoxy floors, however, aren’t like that. You don’t have to rip up the old floor if you decide you’re tired of it. You simply add whatever you want to the top, and you can always go back to the concrete if you choose. Epoxy floors are not just for industrial spaces. They’re making homes feel larger, airier, and more modern every day. It’s not something you might consider until now, but adding epoxy floors at home might be exactly what you’ve been looking for to turn your house into a home. Read Also: 5 Factors To Consider In Choosing The Right Floor Colors

READ MOREDetails