7 Tips for Best-in-Class Basement Remodels

Remodeling a basement, or renovating an already existing space, will almost always cost less than adding an addition or bonus room. This is why remodels appeal to so many homeowners. Whether your client needs more space or wants to redesign an outdated basement, there are many steps involved in crafting a lower level living area. Basements come with a special set of needs that must be addressed if you want the construction to last. Before you get started on your next remodel, use our 7 tips to guide you in the planning process.

1. Waterproofing. This step will always be number one in the planning no matter who you ask, and for good reason. Basements are home to the pipes, ducts and systems we keep hidden from the upstairs, but they’re also prone to water and mold. Before putting up walls, check every surface for water damage or moisture. Once you determine your problem areas, apply concrete sealer to walls and floors or use vapor barrier insulation.
2. Install Drains. This preventative method will save your clients money on furniture, carpet and electronics in the future. We highly recommend installing floor drains even if water isn’t detected initially because basement flooding is more likely than not.
3. Fill in Low Spots. Before you put down new carpet or tile, fill in the low spot of the foundation. Using a self-leveling underlayment is quick and easy and another great preventative method. Tile is more likely to crack if layered on a low spot. Starting with level ground is always better when installing carpet or wood.
4. Quiet Loud Pipes. The basement can sometimes be the loudest room in the home. Wrap the loudest pipes with carpet padding to make it a cozier, less industrial environment. Test this by running the washing machines and toilets before putting walls up to see which activity creates the most noise and which pipes will need to be wrapped.
5. Ceilings. The roofs of our basements are typically decorated with ducts and pipes that help the home function. When remodeling, make the basement feel like home by installing ceilings that will cover these features. Drop ceilings are great because they cover the systems but still allow access to them if needed.
6. Proper Fasteners. Cement, block and brick are just some of the barriers you’re up against when remodeling a basement. Choosing the correct fasteners for these projects is vital to your project’s success. At Fasco America®, we offer a wide range of fasteners, like the diverse SCRAIL® line, for almost all construction applications. Our best-in-class fasteners will ensure a stable and lasting connection, regardless of what you're building.
7. Forget the Utility Room. When decorating, and adding carpets to the space, forget remodeling the utility room. The utility room should remain clean and unobstructed, and if at possible, separated from the rest of the basement enhancements for safety.

If you want your finish to last, you must to do it correct the first time. That means building a strong foundation and using top quality construction materials like those from Fasco America®. For a deeper look into the best tips for remodeling your basement, Download the Whitepaper: Don't Turn Away Customers - Tips to Finishing Basements Faster: Using Better Quality Fasteners for Improved Efficiency by clicking the botton below.