Expert Tips for Finishing a Basement

Finishing a basement is a great remodeling project that can add a great deal of value and comfort to your home. If you have never undertaken this kind of project, however, it may seem too daunting for you to attempt. With a bit of planning, organization, and expert advice, though, most homeowners are perfectly capable of completing a basement remodel either themselves or by bringing in a qualified contractor to do some or all of the work.

If you are interested in finishing a basement in your home, keep in mind some of the expert tips we have collected from contractors, homeowners, and realtors. Always make sure your renovation plans are completely in line with current building codes and that you get the proper permits and inspections required by your local government. This ensures your project will meet all safety requirements and in most cases makes it easier to take the steps necessary to officially include the finished basement area as part of the square footage of your home.

Finishing a Basement

Never hire a contractor based on the lowest bid or because he or she is your friend, neighbor, or relative. There are no shortcuts to a quality remodeling result, so be prepared that the kind of quality you want is going to require an appropriate amount of money. Always check contractor references and look at past work, regardless of how well you think you know them personally. Its important that you choose someone who has had experience completing basement remodeling projects, so be sure to ask about their background in that area.

Preparation is key to successfully finishing a basement, most notably waterproofing and repair of any cracks, chips, or other kinds of damage that is often found in a basement. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is to skip these critical preparation activities so they end up with water or other kinds of damage to their finished basement just a few months down the road. If you plan to use the area as a family room for watching TV and movies, plan ahead so that the electrical and cable outlets are located in logical locations where you actually plan to put your TV equipment. With these expert tips in mind, finishing a basement can be a rewarding, and practical, remodeling project to undertake.

This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.

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