A basement remodel gives you not only extra space but also increases your home’s value. For such a key remodel, expert services are ideal, considering some buildings were built a long time ago and building codes have changed, especially regarding fire standards. The foundation structure of the house may also not be as stable as it was before, and reinforcement would be required before the project begins.

If you are considering a remodel, ACA Remodeling Inc. is an expert remodeler specializing in all types of remodelling projects. Below are six steps you should consider before initiating a remodel project.

1. Get Your Permits

Zoning and building codes in your area require you get a permit before you remodel your basement. This is regardless of whether you are hiring a contractor or if it's a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. After designing your new basement look and feel, you need to get into contact with the relevant office for a permit.

The permit type and costs differ based on the magnitude of the project and the state you are in. You also need to check for any building violations to ensure they are rectified while remodelling. These include standard fire codes, where egress windows are now a requirement as a fire safety measure.

2. Inspect The Foundation And Structure

Depending on the condition of the basement, you may need to consider the structural work that already exists before any other installations, such as plumbing and new walls. A poorly constructed structure affects everything from the foundation, walls, ceiling height, and other features.

The same applies to a bad foundation. If there are cracks and leaks, they need to be repaired before the remodelling project proceeds. This also includes cracked walls, which might have weakened with time. Such need to be repaired as they can be a source of major problems in the future. Not handling structural and foundational issues may jeopardize the entire building when the renovations begin. Other signs to look for include cracks either on the walls or the floors, soft concrete, stuck windows, and doors that do not latch properly

3. Check If There Are Any Water Issues

Before working on the basement, check if there are any water issues that have been ignored since they didn't seem a threat or interfere with the main house. Check out for any signs such as drips below the walls, leaks, bulges, and moulds on walls and ceilings.

Check to see if there are any water leaks from the lawn to the basement and get this corrected before the remodelling commences. Any water problem should be sorted before aspects such as insulation are considered as they can cause more serious damage in the future.

4. Insulation And Vapor Barriers

Insulation protects your basement from elements and also saves energy. You may opt for fibreglass or spray foam. Moisture issues must be considered as they can complicate your whole project. Besides insulation, you may also consider installing a vapour barrier that is designed to block vapour accumulation while at the same time providing an outlet for the water. This should be on both walls and floors. You may consider installing the barrier a day or two before commencing the project just to see the amount of moisture coming out. The barrier also protects the frame from water damage and has also increased energy efficiency.

5. Consider The Type Of Ceiling

Before remodelling, you need to decide the kind of ceiling needed for the new construction. For your basement, drop ceilings come highly recommended since they help conceal ductwork. They also provide easy access to electrical lines and pipes when there's a need for maintenance. The ceiling height is a key consideration when considering the type of furniture and accessories that will be used in the basement. The post drop ceiling height is more accurate, considering a drop ceiling reduces the vertical space of the basement. That’s why it's key to keep these measurements in mind when preparing for the project since they affect how high anything constructed below can go.

6. Make Adjustments On The Essentials

You may have planned what to do with the basement, but the ceiling height plays a key role. You may need to adjust accordingly before deciding the kind of rooms you need in the basement and their purpose.

An extra study room may be less complicated than a mother-in-law’s suite or an apartment room let out. The utilities required in there also vary depending on the purpose. You may also consider space for HVAC units depending on the space and the framing codes.

Proper planning is key before a basement remodelling project. It saves you the many problems that may arise later, such as water issues, cracks, and insufficient space for electrical and plumbing lines. Before everything else, a permit is necessary; otherwise, you find yourself on the wrong side of the law. Ensure you get all these right.