Basement remodeling can improve your quality of life. But it’s important that you plan ahead for everything that needs to happen during your project. One of the benefits of hiring a contractor is that you can avoid some of the most common mistakes.
Here are four mistakes we see homeowners make during basement remodeling.
1. Underestimating How Much Work It’ll Take
A basement remodel is a huge undertaking. That’s why we recommend you hire a basement contractor before getting started.
One of the first things you’ll need to do is see if you need any special permits. You’ll also need to check the local building codes and regulations for your area. This will save you so many headaches in the future.
Don’t underestimate your next remodeling project! Hire the experts at Basement Trust!
Learn More:How to Prepare for a Basement Remodel →
2. Not Planning the Layout
This may be one of the most fun (and frustrating) parts of planning your basement remodel. On one hand, you’ll finally be able to put your ideas on paper. But you’ll also have to consider where electrical and plumbing components are in your basement and plan around them. You may also have to scale down big plans for the actual room you have in your basement.
Here are some tips for planning an awesome basement:
- Make sure basement bedrooms have egress windows.
- Put areas for socialization where they’ll get the most natural sunlight.
- Reduce glare by putting your TV in a dark area.
- Think of how you’ll use the space and how it’ll function.
3. Not Installing Sump Pumps
Do you live in an area that’s prone to flooding? If so, we recommend that you in the lowest point of your basement. You should also have a battery backup so your sump pump will continue to work if you have a power outage.
Here’s how a sump pump works.
First, a contractor will install the sump pit at the lowest point of your basement. When water flows into this pit, it will trigger the sump pump to pump water out and away from your home. Pretty neat, huh?
4. Not Leaving Enough Space Around Mechanicals
Make sure you remember the mechanicals in your basement, such as your furnace. There should be at least 2 to 3 feet of clearance around each mechanical. That way, future repairmen will be able to make repairs and perform regular maintenance. Whether you plan on moving mechanicals or putting up walls around them, this is good advice to keep in mind.
At any rate, it may not be a good idea to put up a lot of walls in your basement. Most basements have little to no natural light. When you put up a lot of walls, it can make your space feel more shadowy and/or cramped. In general, it’s a good idea to keep your basement as as possible.
Related:How to Make Your Small Basement Feel Bigger →
Summary
We understand the temptation to save money and try to remodel your basement by yourself. But you can avoid a lot of remodeling mistakes by hiring a contractor.
Hiring a contractor will help you avoid the following mistakes:
- Underestimating how much work and time it’ll take
- Not planning the layout
- Not installing sump pumps
- Not leaving enough space around mechanicals
It's important that you do your research beforehand so you hire the right company. As such, we encourage you to check out their portfolio, references, as well as proof of insurance.
While you're at it, be sure to check out our blog post on the top questions you should ask a contractor before you hire.
Request Your Free Estimate Today!
As a basement remodeling contractor, we'd love the opportunity to transform your home. To request a free estimate, please call Basement Trust at (616) 608-9716. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.