Would your home be perfect if only it had a game room, man cave, home theater or indoor sports court? Why not take advantage of the unused space in your basement? Before you start the planning process for your home renovation, you may want to consider these finished basement advantages and drawbacks.
Pro: Basements Offer Plenty of Space for Expansion
Spanning the entire length and width of your house, your basement provides ample space to add a single room to your home or create a massive bar/theater/game room combination. The lower level of your home is also the ideal spot for workshops, craft rooms, gift wrapping rooms or even a generously sized guest room suite. Could your sports game use a little help? Why not add a golf or baseball simulator, build your own bowling lane, or construct a floor hockey rink?
Con: Moisture Problems Can Derail Your Remodeling Plans
You won’t want to spend much time in your new space if your basement is damp or moldy. Fortunately, basement moisture problems can often be alleviated by improving exterior grading and drainage, fixing leaks, or installing dehumidifiers or sump pumps. If moisture is a problem in your basement, even occasionally, it’s a good idea to consult a waterproofing company before you proceed with your plans. Failing to address moisture or mold problems before construction begins can result in costly repairs in the future.
Pro: Basements are Ideal for Noisy or Messy Activities
It’s much more fun to cheer for your favorite team if you don’t have to worry about disturbing the rest of the household. Your basement acts as a natural sound buffer, allowing you to stream a movie or play your favorite tunes at full volume. As part of the remodeling process, additional soundproofing can also be added to your lower level.
Do your children love messy arts and crafts projects? A basement arts and crafts room will help keep the rest of your house pristine. Including a studio or workroom in your remodeling plans is an excellent idea if you restore old furniture in your spare time, need a space to make fishing lures or want to practice playing your saxophone.
Con: Darkness Can Be an Issue in Below-Grade Basements
Do the words “dank, dark and uncomfortable” come to mind when you think about your basement? Lack of natural light is certainly a concern in many basements. If the bulk of your basement is below grade, a few simple changes can make the space more inviting.
Increasing the size of windows, adding sliding glass or French doors to the above-grade part of the basement, or brightening the space with a combination of overhead and task lighting can be helpful. Decorating choices, such as white or neutral walls and mirrored surfaces, may also keep the space light and bright.
Pro: A Finished Basement Improves the Value of Your Home
Thanks to your finished basement, the value of your home will probably increase. You may also find that it easier to sell your home when you’re ready to move eventually, particularly if many of the homes in your neighborhood boast finished basements. According to Nationwide, finishing your basement can generate a 50 to 83 percent return on your investment (ROI). Your ROI will depend on the scope of the project, the craftsmanship and the quality of the materials and finishes.
Con: A Basement Refinishing Project Will Be Disruptive
Any remodeling project, whether it takes place above or below grade, is disruptive. Although your contractor will try to make the process as stress-free as possible, some changes to your daily life will be unavoidable. Your basement will be unusable for several weeks or months, and you’ll need to adjust to contractors working in your home every day.
Noise and temporary electrical or plumbing outages are common during basement remodeling. Although your contractor will do his best to contain dust, you’ll probably need to clean more often than usual. Despite the inconveniences, many homeowners find basement refinishing well worth the disruptions.
Are you looking for a home with a basement large enough to finish? You’ll want to check out Country Classics' new construction homes in the Central New Jersey area. Contact us to learn how you can become one of our newest homeowners!
Sources:
University of Minnesota Extension: Moisture in Basements
https://extension.umn.edu/moisture-and-mold-indoors/moisture-basements-causes-and-solutions
HGTV: Best Bets for Basement Lighting
https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/interior-remodel/best-bets-for-basement-lighting
Nationwide: 10 Home Improvements That Can Add Value to Your Home
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