Basements often end up as a forgotten part of the house or a place where clutter accumulates and you don’t want your guests to see. However, it can be improved so that the space contributes to the functionality and appeal of your property.
Basements are one of those spaces in the house that may not be a priority for home renovations but are also essential. Investing in a basement remodel can enhance your lifestyle and serve a greater purpose, making it an important part of the home.
In this post, we talk about seven reasons that will convince you to renovate your basement.
1. Utilize the Extra Space
Your basement remodel could be a wonderful opportunity to incorporate some kid-friendly space into your home if your family is growing. Instead of cluttering your main living area with toys and children’s items, create a fun playroom downstairs. Another sign that your family is expanding is if your parents or in-laws move in. If you don’t have enough money to add an in-law suite, you can convert your basement into one.
It can be costly and time-consuming to add a new room to your home. However, remodeling your basement will save you time and money in the long run and allow you to make better use of the available space. You could convert it into a bedroom with all the necessary amenities, or you could use it for a variety of purposes, such as a gaming room, theater room, home office or children’s playroom. The possibilities are endless, especially with a trusted home renovations contractor.
2. Boost Your Energy Efficiency
Without proper insulation and ventilation, an unfinished basement can contribute to energy loss and higher utility bills. A remodeled basement with adequate insulation, on the other hand, helps maintain a comfortable temperature in your home while also reducing air leaks.
3. Use It as a Guest Room or Rental Space
Adding a guest room to your basement can be accomplished through custom home renovations. The quiet and isolated space is also ideal for renting out because renters will value the extra privacy. As a bonus, it’s a simple and effective way to earn additional income.
It’s also a good idea to incorporate more storage space into your basement remodeling plans. In addition to a pantry for non-perishable food, it can also be turned into a closet for unused clothing or a place for random items that don’t seem to fit elsewhere.
Depending on the size of your house, you may be able to convert the basement into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). ADUs are additional residences built on the same lot as the main residence; they are commonly referred to as mother-in-law suites. They are complete units with sleeping, eating and bathing areas. If you rent out your basement conversion, you could generate a substantial income for your family. You may be able to recoup your entire investment over time.
As older family members age, ADUs are another popular solution for providing them with living quarters on your property. This provides the peace of mind of having them at home while also enabling them to maintain the independence and privacy that older family members usually seek.
4. Increase the Resale Value of Your Home
Regardless of whether you intend to stay in your current home, remodeling your basement is a wise investment because it adds livable space without the need to build an additional structure. If you want to sell your home, keep in mind that an unfinished and cluttered basement will turn off potential buyers. Basement renovation projects can increase the resale value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. A renovated basement that is organized and well-designed can increase the number of interested buyers.
5. Use It as Entertainment Space
Your basement will make an excellent theater or entertainment room because of the acoustics. Install comfortable seating and a home theater system with cutting-edge technology to host parties or enjoy quiet movie time with friends and family. It also comes with the added benefit of avoiding inconvenience to your neighbors.
6. Improve Safety
A basement remodel can prevent several problems that can damage the structure and integrity of your home, such as water leaks, mold growth and gas leaks. Your basement will be protected in this way and you won’t have to deal with severe damage, which can be expensive. Choosing the right flooring material is also essential during basement renovation since basements tend to get cold quickly. The space will stay warmer for longer if you do this. To achieve the desired effect, use a proper combination of carpet and vinyl.
7. Make Your Home a Healthier Place
Remodeling your basement is more than just about appearances; it is also about the longevity and livability of your home. When a basement is neglected and unfinished, damp and cold conditions develop. The American Society of Home Inspectors and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimate that basement leaks affect up to 98% of homes. Excess moisture is found in 60% of basements, with 38% developing toxic molds and fungi.
In other words, your unfinished basement is likely compromising your indoor environment, resulting in discomfort and health risks to your family. Indoor air does not remain in a single room. It spreads throughout the house, settling in bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens where you and your family spend most of your time.
Finishing a basement with proper waterproofing and insulation methods will address these issues and ensure good indoor air quality in your home. A professional basement inspection is a good idea if you’re concerned about or planning a remodel. Additionally, your contractor should check your home for asbestos if it was built a long time ago.
Reputable roofing contractor, Ben’s Construction Inc, offers a variety of home improvement services. Whether you need exterior renovation or other home improvement services, our team of professionals is always ready to assist you. Call us at (508) 962-2417, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.