Is space limited at home? Not enough room to store your belongings and actually enjoy your home? The basement is often an overlooked place, but with the right renovation, it can become the perfect space for a bedroom, entertaining and more. Don’t forget: the right basement renovation can turn that empty space into the perfect rental unit, which is more $$$ in your pocket!
Is your basement unfinished? The right basement renovation will not only enhance your home’s market worth substantially, but also your family’s quality of life!
We spoke to Remon Hanoun, President and CEO of HomeReno Direct, a renovation company specializing in bathroom, kitchen and basement renovations, about what to consider when designing a new basement suite.
Hanoun knows that finishing a basement can be a daunting task for homeowners, but turning a dark or dingy basement into a place for everyone to enjoy doesn’t have to be. With so many options, including building an extra bedroom, office, kitchen, party room or home theater, you can let your imagination run wild! Before you start, here’s what you should consider:
Access
You need to account for egress windows and doors. Municipal bylaws require basement suites to have a separate entrance and windows that are large enough to climb out of in the case of a fire. Larger windows also help to allow more natural light into the space, creating the feeling of being on the main floor rather than in a basement.
Space design
Hanoun recommends designing an open concept space, which allows more light to flow through. Painting the space in light, bright colours can also make it feel more spacious. Your space should be outfitted with a functional kitchen and a full bathroom. If you have room, an in-suite laundry is a plus, although Hanoun says homeowners looking to save money on their renovation may opt to have shared laundry facilities if the basement is a rental unit. HomeReno Direct can help transform your basement based on your individual needs.
Reduce noise
To avoid noise transference, Hanoun at HomeReno Direct recommends insulating the floors and ceiling with noise reduction insulation. Insulating the furnace room can also help to cut down on mechanical noise in the suite and make the space more comfortable.
Create warmth
Basements are typically colder than any other part of the house. To ensure you stay warm and dry, Hanoun recommends installing free-floating laminate flooring on top of a subfloor. “This way, it’s suspended from the cold and the humidity,” he says, ensuring your feet will stay warm and cozy. He also recommends relocating heating ducts. “Most heating vents in basements are in the ceiling,” says Hanoun. But because hot air rises, relocating heating vents closer to the floor will heat the space from the ground up, making it much more comfortable as a living space.
Whether your family plans on using the basement or the suite is meant to be rented, there is a lot to consider during the renovation. Hiring a professional is the best way to transform your unfinished basement into a beautiful, functional living space or rental unit.
Want to start planning your basement renovation? Contact the experts at HomeReno Direct for more information. Scroll through their image gallery on our website to get inspiring ideas!
BONUS: If you’re looking to turn your home into a money-maker, why not consider renting out the basement? Check out our informative piece on having an income property.
