Basement Remodeling Tips
Written by No Doubt Marketing
For many homeowners, the basement provides the opportunity to expand existing living space and enlarge the useable square footage in their home. A finished basement can increase the number of bedrooms in a house or it can create a new living space.
Planning for a Basement Remodel
Before leaping into remodeling a basement, a homeowner should think carefully about how they want to use the space available for the remodel. For example, if a homeowner wants to create new bedrooms, a utility room and a family entertainment room, they need to measure out how much space they want each room to occupy. Also, careful thought should go to whether or not windows will need to be installed at ground height to allow some light into the space and whether or not utility access for electricity and plumbing will also need to be installed.
Make notes or a rough diagram of what you would like the space to look like when it is finished. Also, cutting out pictures from magazines of rooms or features you like or want to incorporate into your basement remodeling project will be helpful when you talk to the contractor.
Selecting a Contractor
Selecting a good contractor can make all the difference between an easy basement remodeling project and a nightmare project. Ask people you know and trust who have done recent remodeling work if they would recommend their contractor, particularly if their remodeling project included remodeling their basement. Once you have several recommendations, call the contractor and ask if they would come and give you an estimate. Have all of your diagrams and photos ready to show them when the come over for the walk through to look at your potential project.
Ask the contractor to give you an estimate that includes estimates for material costs, labor, demolition and disposal of refuse. Also ask for a realistic time schedule for the completion of the remodeling project. Also, ask them what their experience is remodeling basements and if they have a list of clients you can call for references. Ask about what potential problems happen with remodeling a basement and how they have dealt with those kinds of problems in the past. Also, ask them if they work with the local building department for obtaining permits and building inspections.
After getting at least three estimates, select the contractor you feel comfortable with. Make sure you also call the Better Business Bureau and state contractor's license board to find out if they are bonded and licensed.
Saving Money
One of the ways to save money when remodeling a basement is to purchase the building materials yourself. It is not uncommon for contractors to add to the cost of materials. Ask the contractor to provide you with an exact list of building materials and purchase those materials yourself from your local home improvement center or building materials company.
Another way to save money is to purchase items like plumbing fixtures like faucets or other items online.
