In Regina, basement renovation revolves around creating a practical, high-quality space that meets the lifestyle goals of a homeowner. For the most part, homes have big enough basements that allow for renovations. You may be able to convert it into anything you want, from a game room to a wine bar to a spare bedroom.
But before embarking on the renovation, keep in mind that you’re bound to encounter certain challenges with the project. Common challenges include moisture issues, low-hanging pipes, and poor lighting. To overcome such challenges, you’ll need to work with a reputable Regina home renovation company like Leenan Homes.
On that note, here are 10 proven tips to help you successfully renovate your basement in Regina, Canada!
1. Make It Cozy and Welcoming
Some extra thought is required when carrying out a basement renovation. Even in the most fortunate circumstances, you’ll likely have dark corners and lack large windows. In order to overcome this, you’ll need to design your basement in a way that remains welcoming despite it.
Add a fireplace. This should help make it cozy. Consider installing a good quality, large screen television. While still at it, make it more comfortable by adding cozy couches, a pool table, and a bar.
Hanging mirrors can also help improve the lighting. Be strategic when hanging them, and consider all angles. Draw a mental line from the light source to the mirror and see how the light bounces.
2. Dig Out the Basement
Does your basement currently have high ceilings? If not, it may be a smart investment to dig it out. This can be a costly project. But the good thing is it can help you increase the height of the ceiling, which can give you many more quality options to work with.
This is certainly a capital-intensive project. As such, be sure you hire a qualified and experienced company like Leenan Homes. It’ll be well worth it in the end for this Regina home improvement.
3. Make Your Ceilings Appear Higher
Not many homeowners may have the project budget to dig out their basement space. The alternative to that is making the ceilings appear higher. Professional construction designers like us may recommend exposing joists and painting them as opposed to adding drywall.
Next, you’ll need to bring more light into your Regina basement by using track lighting between the joists. After doing this, continue with any remodeling job you had.
4. Add a Bathroom
A bathroom is also another ideal addition to a basement renovation. Regardless of what your plans are, you and your family will be spending some time down there. As such, it’s a good idea to add a proper restroom to your project for convenience.
Both a toilet and a sink are vital in this living space. If you have a bigger budget, consider creating a full washroom by adding a shower or shower/tub combo. This should help make your basement more livable and convenient, and this Regina home improvement will ultimately increase the property value as well.
5. Don’t Forget Waterproofing
Regardless of what you’re planning to use the basement for, it’s imperative for the space to be dry. That’s where waterproofing comes into play. It might include adding a dehumidifier, or a moisture barrier to the walls and foundation.
Make sure to have a discussion with your Regina basement contractors to know your options for the project.
6. Incorporate Necessities Into the Design Scheme
During basement renovations, ceiling height is often an issue. Because of this, you’ll need to incorporate certain elements into your design plans. Pot lights tend to work well for the ceiling, and you can also consider incorporating ductwork into the interior architecture.
If you cannot lump the electrical panel and water heater into a utility room, then try incorporating them into cabinets.
7. Don’t Forget About the Drainage System
Proper drainage is key to a functional basement. When Regina homes are built, they’ll generally have a main floor drain as part of the standard construction job. But this isn’t always effective. So, when it’s not effective, you may have several options to pursue.
One of these options is installing a French drain. This project can, however, cost you an arm and a leg. Another option is installing drain tiles, but the process can be a messy and laborious business to do.
The third and most palatable option is to install a sump pump. This can be placed either on the inside or outside of your Regina home and works automatically.
8. Renovate Your Basement with Energy Efficiency in Mind
The last thing you want to do when renovating your basement is to forget about energy efficiency. It can be a costly mistake.
So, when renovating your basement, make sure to use energy-efficient materials and products. This will not only help you save money, but it will also help make the space comfortable.
An uninsulated or poorly insulated basement can cost you as much as 35% of all home heat loss. Expert Regina basement renovation contractors like us are skilled at insulating your basement securely as part of our services.
9. Inspect the Space for Foundation Cracks
Ensuring structural integrity is essential before tackling other elements is key. Inspect the foundation floor and walls for cracks. If there are any cracks, fix them before conducting any basement renovations. In most cases, a repair solution using quality carbon fiber will suffice.
Carbon fiber is stronger compared to traditional steel methods. The installation process is also fairly easy.
10. Design a Safe and Appealing Staircase
Of course, you’ll already have stairs to the basement. But, when renovating the basement, make sure they’re up to code and look attractive. You may even consider moving them to a better spot if they aren’t in a convenient location.
When it comes to Regina basement renovations, the building codes will usually vary depending on the configuration of the staircase. As such, talk to us first about your plans to see whether they can be accommodated.
Bottom Line
Whether you intend to create a wine cellar, a home theatre, or a game room in your basement, you’re bound to encounter some challenges. At Leenan Homes, our business has the skills and experience to get the job done right the first time.
With over 30 years of combined experience in Regina, we can help you renovate your basement to fit your needs. Get in touch today to get started!