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Adding square footage to your house by renovating an underutilized room and expanding your living space without having to demolish walls is the most effective method of increasing your living space. Basement renovation is not only space-efficient, but it is also cost-effective and a project that causes the least amount of disruption to the home. An additional bath or kitchenette is an excellent addition because of the easy access to plumbing and other amenities. This means that anything you decide to do with your basement will increase the value of your property by two factors. And some elements are necessary for project success, regardless of whether you are in Ottawa or elsewhere.
Basements are often dark, wet, and chilly places to be. When renovating, the objective is to create a remodelling finish that is attractive and appealing and warm, comfortable, and practical. The following are the prerequisites for making use of all available benefits:
Waterproofing
According to the severity of your moisture or water problems, the actions that you must take to guarantee that these issues are resolved and prevented from recurring will be determined. A complete inspection of the basement is required in order to select the most appropriate waterproofing technologies to be used. Look for symptoms of water or moisture damage, such as peeling paint, mould and mildew, dry rot in wall voids and damp places, rust on metal surfaces and the presence of chalky white streaks on walls while you’re at it. Concrete sealants, rerouting downspouts, and supplying sump pumps are some of the methods that may be used in the event of extreme floods, among other things.
Concrete slabs are one of the most significant sources of moisture in a building. Make sure there is adequate ventilation and heating to avoid moisture gathering and additional harm from occurring. Another useful suggestion would be to include renovation materials and supplies that are resistant to moisture in the project.
A Sound Foundation and Good Soil Condition
Aside from moisture and water, additional concerns should be addressed to prevent unexpected damages and repairs in the future, which would waste both time and money throughout the basement renovation process. It is critical to check that the soil is in excellent condition and that the foundation is solid before beginning any renovations. Some of the most often encountered challenges relating to these necessities are as follows:
- Crumbling concrete or mortar
- High humidity
- Warped foundation walls
- Radon infiltration
- Unpleasant odours or poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in general
- Infestation of pests
- Cracks in walls, footings or slabs
- Uneven settlement
Basement Finish
Homeowners will have to make many crucial choices, one of which is what they will do with the results of their renovation project. Consider the existing demands of the family, the available space, and how the finish will be able to support future changes in order to get the most out of the area. Furthermore, by addressing current issues and integrating preventative measures in your basement renovation, you are ensuring that whichever finish you choose will be enjoyed for the longest period of time feasible.
Maintain Comfort
Proper and sufficient insulation should be employed in the basement finish in order to achieve and sustain exquisite comfort. As a result, you will have better moisture management and more effective heating and cooling, which will allow you to save money on your monthly energy costs. Also, talk with your hired contractor if rebuilding the basement would need the installation of an additional set of HVAC systems or whether it would be enough just to zone the home and manage temperatures via separate thermostats.
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