If you have a basement that you aren’t using, then consider remodeling the space to make it more welcoming for occupants. You could turn it into a home office, a family room, a home theater, a game room, or a hobby room. You could also rent it out to other people who might be looking for a small space near the city. Consider the following basement apartment tips to make the space much better than what you have right now.
Increase Window Size
Natural light always makes spaces look good. It is the perfect antidote to a dark and gloomy basement. This would entail the addition of new windows or the enlargement of existing ones. Make it a point to hire experienced professionals for this job because it is a tricky thing that could affect the structure and the moisture build-up inside. It is often impractical to expand vertically because the window will need to stay above the ground. You will need to extend horizontally which means finding areas that will allow you to do this without compromising the rest of the house, the plumbing, or the wiring.
Avoid Solid Wood
Consider your finishing for the floor because this surface will have a major influence on the look of the basement apartment tips. It is tempting to use solid wood for the flooring because of the warm tones and the elegant appearance. However, solid wood is also prone to shrinking and expansion because of the moisture level and temperature variations underground. Over time, the floor planks could suffer from warping or unsightly gaps. You may consider engineered wood which is less prone to size fluctuations. Other options include tile, vinyl, and laminate.
Use a Dehumidifier
You should improve the insulation and waterproofing in the basement. This will enhance energy efficiency and air quality in the space. If you have already done so and feel that it is still too humid, then you might consider using a dehumidifier to counter this problem. This will reduce the humidity to manageable levels and keep things dry.
Add a Bathroom
If you really want to make the basement livable, then add a bathroom specifically for this space. This will give the tenant independence from the rest of the household. It will make the apartment a more desirable space to rent. It can also be used as a guest room or a room for growing teens.
Improving a basement is cheaper than building additional space so it’s a great way to use your money.
