How do I convert my basement into a family room?

1. Measure Your Basement.
2. Inspect Existing Construction Quality.
3. Install Insulation and Moisture Protection.
4. Install the Right Egress Windows.
5. Inspect for Radon.
6. Check for Rot and Pest Damage.
7. Install a Sump Pump.

How do I make my basement family room cozy?

1. Create a cozy den like space. (Image credit: Interior Fox)
2. Add a second living room.
3. Divide up your space with sliding doors.
4. Turn a small basement into a guest bedroom.
5. Experiment with darker colors.
6. Create a home gym.
7. Add a cinema room.
8. Create the ultimate games room.

What adds the most value when finishing a basement?

1. Additional Bedroom.
2. Additional Bathroom.
3. Great Return on Investment.
4. Way to Add Space if Zoning Codes Don’t Allow Other Additions.
5. Income Property.
6. Add Recreation/Storage/Guest Space to Home.
7. Sweat Equity.
8. Don’t Have to Use High End Materials.

What is the cheapest way to remodel a basement?

You can save on the cost to finish a basement by doing things not bound by codes: installing trim or doors, painting walls and woodwork, and installing flooring, says Buckeye Basements’ Jon Smith. Beyond that, count on using some pros.

Do you need planning permission to convert a basement?

In most cases, planning permission is not needed when converting an existing basement or cellar. Converting an existing cellar to a living space only involves a ‘change of use’ and therefore does not require planning permission.

How long does a basement conversion take?

Converting and extending the cellar beneath an entire house, involving underpinning of the existing structure, and depending on the size of the property, the amount of excavation and building work required and its complexity is likely to take 12 – 20 weeks.

What type of flooring is best for concrete basement?

Aside from luxury vinyl, some of the best basement flooring options are sheet vinyl, laminate, carpeting, and prefinished hardwood.

How can I make my basement less depressing?

1. Repaint the Walls. One of the easiest, most affordable ways to lighten a room is by painting the walls and trim in brighter colors.
2. Use Reflective Surfaces.
3. Add Light Fixtures.
4. Introduce More Natural Lighting.
5. Raise the Ceiling.

How do I make my basement feel cozier?

Warm Up the Color Avoid using bright white in a basement, even on walls and ceilings, because it can make the space feel colder. Instead, choose light tones that have some warmth, such as creams or caramels. Add color and warmth in your accessories and furniture.

Does adding a bathroom in the basement add value?

Adding a basement bathroom can increase your home’s resale value by 10%-20%. It also can turn a wasted space into an enjoyable addition to your home. The average basement bathroom will cost $3,000-$25,000, depending on the existing plumbing and condition of your basement.

Why do people not finish basement?

Use As Storage Some families prefer using the basement as a storage space for unused devices or nostalgic items that can’t be thrown away just yet. A basement used as a storage space does not need to be complete as the space won’t have as much traffic as other areas.

Do basement bathrooms count appraisal?

As a general rule of thumb, listing agents and appraisers don’t count a finished basement toward the overall square footage, especially if the basement is completely below grade—a term that means below ground level.

What is the hardest part of finishing a basement?

What’s the biggest challenge in finishing a basement? “Typically, the biggest challenge is working around obstructions. There are heating ducts, plumbing drains, water pipes, gas lines and electrical wires that are all off and hung below the floor joist.

How can I cover my basement walls cheaply?

Fortunately, you can cover basement foundation walls quickly and inexpensively. Attach wood furring strips, Z-shape channels, or 2×4 studs to flat, dry masonry walls, then add insulation and cover the strips or studs with drywall.

Is finishing a basement worth it?

Many people wonder if finishing their basement is worth the time, effort, and money to remodel their downstairs space. To answer that directly, yes, finishing your basement will almost always increase the value of your property. The standard return is around 70%, according to Remodeling.HW.net.

What every basement needs?

• Waterproofing. In most regions of the county, waterproofing the basement is an essential step that can’t be ignored.
• Sound Proofing.
• Egress Windows.
• Quality Lighting.
• Insulation.
• Air Circulation.
• Direct Mount Ceiling.

What is the 4 year rule in planning permission?

The ‘4 Year Rule’ allows you to make a formal application for a certificate to determine whether your unauthorised use or development can become lawful through the passage of time — rather than compliance with space standards — and can continue without the need for planning permission.

Can you convert a basement yourself?

A simple basement conversion can be completed in a matter of weeks. Converting a single-room cellar using a membrane lining system can take just two or three weeks, including digging out the sump and fitting the pumping system.

What is tanking to basement?

What is Basement Tanking? Basement Tanking is the application of a membrane or coating to the inside or the outside of the structure. This stops water entering the habitable space of the property thus making the basement watertight. Within the waterproofing industry this is defined as ‘Type A’ waterproofing.

Can you turn a basement into a bedroom?

So, can you use your basement as a bedroom? In short, yes. You can use your basement as a bedroom, but you have to ensure that it complies with the proper building codes. Basement living spaces require an emergency exit and rescue openings, also known as an egress code.

Does a basement need a fire escape?

All basement and cellars converted for habitable use will need a suitable escape route in the event of a fire. Often existing light wells/windows can be upgraded to provide a secondary fire escape as well as ventilation.

What is the warmest flooring for a basement?

A cork floating floor is an excellent insulating product for cold basements. It is the best flooring for basement. Add in a cost effective 6mm cork underlayment and you will have built an “insulated” floor.

What is best flooring over concrete slab?

1. Engineered Wood. Natural hardwood flooring offers undeniable beauty and durability.
2. Vinyl. As a longstanding choice for kitchens and bathrooms, vinyl has a reputation for extreme water resistance.
3. Laminate.
4. Carpet.
5. Tile.

What is the best waterproof flooring for a basement?

Two of the best options for waterproof flooring for basements are epoxy paint and sealed concrete. Not only are both affordable, but they are durable and allow for adequate waterproofing. Epoxy paint dries thick and hard, providing the necessary durability that goes hand-in-hand with maintaining a basement floor.

How can I improve my basement life?

Basement Living Tips Invest in an air purifier, dehumidifier, and other air cleaning tools for your home. Paint an accent wall or use bright colors in furnishings. Decorate using space-saving furniture. Purchase quality lighting, including lamps, recessed lighting, and bright yet efficient light bulbs.