Basement renovations in Ottawa are a popular home improvement project among home owners looking to increase their living space. A basement renovation has the potential not only to provide extra square footage and storage space, but also to increase the value of your home.
As with most projects of such a large scale, basement renovations in Ottawa require thoughtful planning and preparation. Before you begin tearing down walls and picking paint colours, take note of these steps to guide you through the decision-making process:
1. Decide how you want to use the space
The first step in any renovation project is to decide how the space will be used. Think about your needs and the needs of your family or housemates. Do you need an extra bathroom or bedroom? Are you interested in a home gym or home theatre? Ensure you’re thinking long-term to avoid the need for more renovations down the road.
2. Develop a floor plan
Once you’ve decided what the space will be used for, it’s time to develop a detailed plan for what you want your finished basement to look like. You should take this opportunity to decide everything from where your furniture will be placed to how the room will come together. Take as much time as you need, you’ll want these decisions to be final before you start demolishing!
3. Set a budget
The next step is an important one; setting a budget. Now is the time to determine how much your renovations will cost. Take into consideration things like air vents, electrical needs, flooring, lighting and the cost to hire a company specializing in basement renovations in Ottawa. As a general rule, you can save decorating and furnishing expenses until the end.
4. Note any problematic issues
Before you begin, it’s important to determine if there are any existing problems with your basement. You should look for signs of moisture problems, and any cracks that may need repair. You should also examine the structure to ensure that the existing posts, ceilings and floors will allow for the renovations you’ve planned. These types of repairs may require additional time and money.
5. It’s all in the details
Now it’s time to determine the details and the finishing touches. This is the stage where you’ll decide what type of flooring you’ll install, what colour you’ll paint the walls, and what decorating style and colour schemes you’ll be going with. Finally, you can decide what furnishings will complete the look. Make sure you take exact measurements of the room so that all of the furniture fits!
Everything goes smoother when there’s a plan in place, and basement renovations in Ottawa are no exception. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to begin your project.
