Recent Requests
I want to buy a Steam Shower unit (Ariel SS-902A), have my existing shower taken out, and the new unit setup and installed.
Tracey J
I want to make my house bigger, add a bathroom, kitchenette and separate entrance. It does not matter to me if it is on the 2nd floor or on the first.
Claudia B
Miami, Florida
Basement Improvement Project
A basement renovation is one of the more creative home remodel projects that you can undertake. You have a wide open space that's open to all kinds of uses and design possibilities. In fact, if you have the space, you can even portion off your basement into separate living spaces, like a guest bedroom, a children's study room or play area, home gym and even a home office. With the right partitions, some basement painting, replacing windows with larger ones, installing appropriate flooring and voila! You have new space beneath your home!
The first consideration is to waterproof your basement. This is the first step before you even begin considering design plans. An appropriate sub floor has to be laid to prevent moisture beneath the floor coverings. Your basement walls to have to be finished to make them waterproof, and prevent condensation. Besides, there are the plumbing pipes that are present in your basement to conceal. These can't be removed, but they can be hidden using screens and partitions. An unsightly pillar in the middle of the basement can even be hidden by constructing a box shelf around it. Plumbing pipes on the ceiling can be concealed by installing a false ceiling.
After your basement has been water proofed and finished, you can look at ways to enhance your new living spaces. Naturally, your new finished basement should give an illusion of brightness and light. If you have been unable to have larger windows installed due to structural issues, take special care when you choose basement lighting. Low lighting may give the place a warm glow, but it does nothing to brighten the room. Recessed ceiling basement lighting can help illuminate the area nicely. Special areas in your basement like the recreation area or kids play area, will need brighter lighting, while the home theater section could possibly do with a more subtle basement lighting. This illusion of lightness has to be kept in mind when selecting colors for basement painting too. Keep it as light as possible with shades of ivory, yellows and other pastels being the most recommended shades for your basement walls. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have a bright and cheery finished basement that's ready for use!