One basement remodel project is different from the next, just like your needs and wants are different from the next homeowners needs and wants. However, there are several things that apply to most renovations and that make your new space feel more like yours than ever.
From the finish you want for this space to the extra features that it’ll have, everything we’ll talk about will boost your basement functionality, aesthetics, and comfort.
Let’s see what are 5 things to look at for your Northern Virginia basement remodeling project!
1. Fix All Major Issues
In older homes, an unfinished basement is a dark dungeon that has not one, but many issues that need to be addressed before remodeling it.
For example, a lot of plumbing goes through the basement, and if you’ve been having problems with the installation, chances are you’ll need to check for water spills, mold, mildew, rot, or any other water damage that might put your health at risk.
Another common issue with basements is the old flooring and walls that most of the time need to be fixed or replaced for safety reasons. Before starting your basement renovation, it’s crucial to fix these issues that appear at most unfinished basements.
2. Consider Your Layout
When remodeling a basement, it’s important to keep its layout in mind. You may want to add an extra bedroom, a bathroom, a home theater, a playroom for the kids, or a game room for yourself. All these rooms will need a different layout to function at full capacity.
For example, you’d rather have a basement bathroom in the easiest place to install the plumbing, not on the opposite wall. Or if you’re getting an extra bedroom or a guest room, you’ll probably want at least some natural light in the room, so think about where you’ll place some windows.
You can also use the space to create different areas for different activities. For example, you can have a TV area, a reading nook, a home office, and a kitchenette – all in one basement.
3. Choose the Right Finish For Your Northern Virginia Basement Remodeling
The finish of your basement is one of the most important aspects of this remodeling project. A finished basement will determine how comfortable and inviting the space will be.
You can go for a traditional look with drywall or plaster walls and a concrete floor, or you can choose something more contemporary with exposed piping and ducts, polished concrete floors, or even wooden walls and ceilings.
This usually depends on the style of the rest of your home. If it’s a modern looking place, concrete or epoxy basement floors will look great, but for a more traditional home with a lot of wood features, hardwood floors will be a better choice.
Your finished basement needs to be exactly how you imagined it, and your basement remodeling company needs to make sure they’re following your wishes until the last detail.
4. Add Extra Features
One of the best things about having a basement is that you have plenty of extra space to add features that will make your life easier. You can install a washer and dryer hookup, add extra storage shelves and cabinets, put in a sink and countertop, or even add a small fridge.
Some of the extra features we’re seeing our customers enjoy are pool tables, ping-pong tables, gym equipment, or even a bar to entertain your friends.
Extra features can cost a lot, which is why you need to be careful with your basement remodeling budget and how to make everyone happy. It’s best to stay within a set budget, but if you’d love a game of pool with your friends, that’s definitely a feature that’ll add value to your remodel.
5. Install Proper Lighting
Poor lighting is one of the main issues people have with basements. This is usually because the windows are few and small and don’t let in enough natural light.
To solve this problem, you can install recessed lights or pendant lights over the work areas or around the perimeter of the room. You can also add floor lamps to create cozy corners where you can relax after a long day.
There are a lot of lighting options that can work great in a basement, but might not work as great in a family room upstairs. As a rule of thumb, don’t choose anything too fancy and expensive. The subtler the better, especially for basements.
How To Choose The Right Northern Virginia Basement Remodeling Contractor
When it comes to choosing Northern Virginia basement remodeling contractors for your project, there are a few things you’ll want to do to ensure you’re getting a professional, and not just any contractor.
We talk more about choosing between basement builders here.
- Do your homework and ask around for recommendations.
- Get at least three quotes and compare the services offered as well as the prices.
- Find a licensed and insured contractor.
- Check their online reviews and even text them to see how fast they respond.
- Make sure you feel comfortable with the contractor.
- Make sure their basement remodeling process is on point and it focuses on your needs.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the contractor.
But most important of all, trust your gut feeling – if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Conclusion
Your Northern Virginia basement remodeling project will turn out great if you keep in mind these factors. They’re all important and you’ll have to deal with them at every stage of your renovation.
Instead of skipping them and letting them create more serious issues down the road, why not tackle and fix them now?
Although these are just some of the things you should look at when remodeling your basement, our team from MGS can help with the planning and execution of your project. We offer professional basement remodeling services in Northern Virginia, dedicated to create beautiful spaces that leave you fully satisfied.
Call us today at (571) 577-9554 and get expert’s advice on your remodel. Or request a quote right now and let’s meet up to discuss your upcoming Northern Virginia basement remodeling project!