If you have an unfinished basement in your home, renovating it can provide you and your family with a new space to relax and enjoy quality time together. Basement renovation is no small task, however, as there are many things that go into ensuring it’s comfortable and functional. From what kind of flooring you put down, to the arrangement of your furniture, your basement renovation checklist can get exceptionally long.
While most of your electrical, waterproofing, and duct work should be completed by a professional, there are many elements of your basement renovation that you can complete on your own. These will give you an opportunity to personalize your basement, and turn it into a beautiful space that your family will be eager to visit whenever they get the chance.
Install Ambient Lighting
Good lighting can help just about any space go from unremarkable to memorable, and that’s especially true for a basement. When renovating your basement, consider installing ambient lighting that highlights the design of your space while ensuring not a single corner is shrouded in darkness. Recessed ceiling lights are a popular choice for vibrant basement lighting, as they provide a wide dispersion of light, while also freeing up space that would otherwise be taken up by standing lamps or hanging lights.
Choose Flooring That’s Functional and Fashionable
The right flooring is important in any room of your home, but choosing the most suitable material is especially important when renovating your basement. While the aesthetics of your basement flooring are likely a priority, you should also consider their functionality. Even with the most extensive waterproofing, basements can still attract moisture that may damage certain kinds of flooring over time. Fortunately, basement waterproofing specialists can help you implement effective solutions to keep your basement dry. There are multiple things you can do to ensure your basement remains a comfortable and attractive space.
Firstly, install drainage mats on your basement floor to provide a moisture barrier for your actual flooring. Not only will this help keep moisture from seeping out of your basement’s concrete and into your flooring, but it will also help your floors feel warmer overall. Then when it comes time to select a kind of flooring, you’ll want something that can stand up to moisture and cold temperatures. Cork, vinyl, and carpet are often the best types of flooring for a basement, as they don’t become overly cold, and with the proper floor mat, take on very little moisture.
Paint With Warm Colors
Unless your basement has several windows, it likely doesn’t get much natural light. This can make your space seem dark and uninviting, but this can be combated with the right coat of paint. Warm colours like yellow, orange, red, and all the other shades in between evoke a sense of positivity and brightness that can help your basement feel like it’s getting much more natural light than it actually is. Even if you just dedicate one wall to a warm tone, it can liven up the space and make it feel as vibrant as any other room in your home.
Renovating your basement may seem like a daunting task at first, but it can also be a terrific opportunity for creativity. With the right lighting, flooring, and coat of paint, you and your family can have a dedicated space for fun activities like family movie night, or a new area for entertaining guests.
Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beach goer operating out of Southern New Jersey. She writes for Prime BSF, an electrician in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Post written by Jennifer Walker
