Basement Problems Turned Around
Remodeling or Finishing your basement can present several inherent challenges, which can all be turned into advantages. Here's how...
Problem #1:
Basements provide a cool spot to hang out in the summer, but winter temperatures can make your basement unbearable. This dilemma can be easily solved by turning the latest rage - radiant floor heating - on its side. The grids used underneath tile or wood floors can, with very little adaptation, be hung rather than laid.
The proper glue or nailing around the edges (avoiding the wire mesh, of course!), can make these systems into the perfect radiant wall heaters. Placed behind wood wall panels they operate essentially the same as floor systems. Of course, any water leakage or moisture problems will need to be dealt with first.
Problem #2:
Basements can be dark and dreary. So, use this feature to your advantage and create the perfect darkroom or home entertainment center.
If used for a darkroom, you'll need to plan for proper ventilation and cold/hot water plumbing. If your basement has windows you will also need to cover the windows or consider partitioning the room. Partitioning the room will also ensure your pictures aren’t ruined by an unexpected opening of the basement door.
Or choose to turn your basement into one of the latest crazes in family entertainment. A home entertainment center provides a number of opportunities for creativity. You'll want to investigate materials for sound control. Acoustic ceiling and wall tile or wall hangings, and flooring are all consideration. Wood floors and walls are attractive, but provide too 'live' an environment for home music and home theater systems.
Since not everyone prefers watching movies in complete darkness. You'll also want to plan the proper lighting system for your home theater system. Track lighting is popular, but difficult to place to keep glare off the screen. As a good alternative, think about building some reflective shelves or sconces,
Problem #3:
Another problem basements pose is moisture. Too much seepage can present a hazard and no amount of creativity can turn that to advantage. Proper basement sealing can minimize moisture. Although there are a couple uses for your basement that can take advantage of the moist environment, within limits. Consider using your basement for a sauna or greenhouses.
To plan a sauna, you'll need to investigate current options for hot-water plumbing and steam generation. Several modular systems are available in a variety of price ranges. Drainage is key, since water build up has to be dealt with.
Fortunately, though basements can be cool, since they're enclosed they're generally easy to keep hot once warmed up. Good insulation is key. Cork works well, but can accumulate mold. There are dozens of modern materials with low heat conductivity available.
Proper partitioning can keep the actual sauna area small, while a tiled area can be used for cooling down or toweling off. Paint in warm colors, but allow plenty of time for complete drying.
Greenhouses are easy to make in most basements. Though care has to be taken to control mold and mildew, inexpensive heating lamps can provide both warmth and light for growing orchids and other 'hot-house' flowers.
Extra care has to be observed in planning electrical systems to control water contact. Luckily, modern materials for wrapping under-floor pipes and running wiring through conduit are light-weight and inexpensive.
Safety:
Whatever you plan to design, be sure to get one of the low-cost devices for measuring radon gas and carbon monoxide levels, though seldom a problem, it is better safe than sorry.
With the average cost of basement remodeling running around $35,000 give careful thought to how to best use your basement and create a truly useful space for you and your family.
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