How to Finish a Basement with Safety in Mind

If you too are thinking about adding more space in your home by learning how to finish a basement, there are a few things you should keep in mind at the very onset. Amongst other aspects that need to be looked into, you primarily have to ensure that this new space has no ill effects on the health of your family members. Things to keep in mind while finishing a basement would include:

Look for Dampness: It is essential that you look for any standing/stagnant water in the basement, especially below windows and in the corners. Also, look for any visible signs of mildew and/or mold. Mildew and mold can grow on the floor, ceiling, walls, wooden beams, and windows. Mildew and mold within homes are known to be the cause of respiratory problems, even in the absence of asthma and allergies. Besides, dampness in the basement can also damage the floor above, can cause framing boards to buckle and warp, can cause unpleasant odors, and can also increase your heating/cooling costs.

Identify the Cause and Fix it: Dampness or water within basements can cause the floor and walls to develop cracks as well as leaky windows, and this happens mainly because of inadequate water removal around the foundation and inadequate drainage solutions. Rainwater drainage is fairly easy to take care of; simply ensure that the downspouts are placed correctly and maintain a fair distance from the house, and this will ensure that your basement does not suffer on account of rainwater. Also, ensure that you inspect the area where the walls and the floor meet.

Correct problems with the Foundation: If you notice large uneven cracks in the floor or the walls during your inspection, they could very well be because of problems with the foundation. Before you start working on your basement, you should ideally get this taken care of.

Opt for a Professional Inspection: Before starting on the construction, it is best if you get inputs from a professional even if you intend to undertake the project on your own. This becomes especially important if you notice any cracks or leaks. You should ideally also get your basement space checked for gases such as Radon which could be building up under your basement. Also, a professional would tell you exactly what needs to be done in order to convert your basement into living space.

Go through the Local Building Codes: This is particularly important because you wouldn’t want to stop your project halfway, or realize upon completion that the structure you’ve built isn’t authorized. Make sure that you check for specifics while looking up local building codes. For instance, certain neighborhoods require that a set number of doors and windows be in place to serve as fire escapes; and specifications could include aspects such as the ceiling’s height, stairs, etc.  

Check Existing Appliances: If your basement has appliances which use water, make sure that you check the hoses and pipes for leaks. With electrical appliances, check if any of the wiring needs replacement.

Remember, while making a basement a part of your living space can be a great idea, you should also ensure that it is a safe place for your family to be in.