Basement can add a lot of value and comfort to a home if appropriately utilized. Creating a space to have get-togethers and parties in the basement is one of the most commonly used ways to utilize the underground area in a home. But transforming the basement is no easy feat and requires extensive remodeling. While many people might assume that renovating a basement would be similar to redoing the rest of the house, the reality is a little different. The environmental conditions that affect a concrete structure are different on the ground floor than in the basement. Therefore, the materials and techniques that work when renovating a house may not necessarily work for the basement.
But unfortunately, more often than not, people don’t realize the need to tackle the separate levels of their house differently and end up making renovation mistakes. If you are planning to get your basement done soon, then be sure to watch out for these common mistakes to save yourself a lot of money and unnecessary inconvenience.
Finishing a wet, flood-prone basement
Your basement is predisposed to letting water in through the foundation walls and the ground. It is like a box of porous concrete under the ground, which absorbs water from all sides. When the underground water levels rise in the areas surround a basement, it starts to seep in through the walls. Hence, using materials that are prone to get damaged due to moisture in your basement is like waiting for a disaster to happen. Make sure you set up a dehumidification system in your basement and use the right flooring.
Using Organic Matter for the Walls
Basements are naturally more humid than the rest of the home; therefore, using materials that absorb water to build the walls will only lead to mold and mildew infestation. Most organic matter walls are made of wood or fiberglass. When they absorb moisture, they become an ideal breeding ground for fungus and bacteria. Hence, you should choose to build your basement walls with a hundred percent inorganic, waterproof material.
Not Arranging for Moisture Control
Using waterproof building materials in your basement will help you keep the structure stable, but that will not be enough to take away the moisture entirely. Once the humidity levels in your basement pass 60%, the walls might start smelling and mold may begin to accumulate over surfaces. Therefore, it’s essential that you monitor the moisture levels in your basement and place a dehumidifier to keep the humidity below 55%.
Choosing Ill-Suited Colors
Painting may seem like the easiest job, but it can make or break the look of any room. While choosing the right shade of paint is essential for any room, it is especially necessary for the basement. Picking out of place colors for your basement can severely mar its look. Therefore, make sure to paint right in the basement.
Lastly, don’t forget to hire a professional team of remodelers to do your basement. An unprofessional crew may end up doing more harm than good to the underground space of your home.
