Tips for Successfully Remodeling Your Basement
Do you have a basement that’s unfinished or do you want to really change your layout? You may want to consider remodeling it. Why? It gives your basement a whole new look and it adds great value to your home.
Doing it yourself can save you money short-term but getting a professional will ensure that things get done properly. You really have to weigh the pros and cons to make a sound decision. Here are some tips to help you in the process.
What do you want to do to your basement?
You should really have it in your mind to create some sort of plan before you start any work. Are you simply looking to add a couple of lighting fixtures, new wood flooring, new insulation, ceilings and walls, or go for a full remodel? Deciding this in advance will help you put things in perspective and get you on board to start saving money on the project. A plan will also help you set a realistic time frame of when you want to get things done. Coming up with a plan ahead of time will make it easier to consult with a contractor. He will be able to give you a realistic look of what can be done and for how much.
Consulting a contractor before you get started
Now, if you really plan to move things and create a new bathroom, a bar or anything that requires dramatic change to the basement – a contractor will give you an estimate on how much that will cost. You may have to get new piping and build new walls and or change other aspects that could change the infrastructure of your basement.
A contractor makes sure you will have the proper permits to start making severe changes to the basement. It’s better to be safe than sorry. He will also make sure that your basement is dry. Remember, you may have leaks or cracks that you need to get checked out. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a flooded basement – only adding to the overall cost of your remodel job.
Hire a contractor to do the work
You really want to be careful, especially when it comes to electrical work. Simply fixing up a bathroom or adding a couple of things can be done on your own. However, wire work and adding electrical circuitry should only be done by an electrical contractor that is properly licensed. Taking this type of task on your own is risky not only for the status of your home but your own health. Not to mention, contractors are insured. In case of any damages, it won’t cost you a dime to fix it because it’s part of the contract.
Additionally, a contractor knows the proper safety precautions and has the right equipment. In case you have future plans for the basement, you can talk to the contractor about putting certain supply lines in so there’s less work to do later.
These are just a few tips to help in successfully remodeling your basement correctly. It’s important to take the proper precautions before you start and it doesn’t hurt to get expert advice. Sometimes, you can’t do it all on your own – contact a contractor for the more difficult work.