Cost-Effective Solution for Adding Living Space
Take advantage of existing basement structures and increase living space at nearly half the construction cost compared to building an addition. Basement finishing and remodeling allows homeowners to utilize the existing floor, walls, and ceiling structures. Another added benefit of refinishing the basement is lowering energy bills by up to 30 percent. Despite the costs of adding recommended safety and comfort features, basement finishing provides the most benefits for the effort in comparison to new construction.
Challenges must be identified and addressed prior to considering a basement refinishing contractor. Many basements contain heating, plumbing, water, laundry, and electrical equipment that either must be accommodated in the design or camouflaged with easy-access panels to maximize the use of space. Basements are naturally prone to moisture, dampness, water vapor, and leaking water concerns, and even flooding. Constant exposure to hydrostatic pressure leaves the basement susceptible to mold, mildew, rot, bad odors, and resulting damage to floor coverings, furniture, and personal items.
Choosing a Basement Finishing Expert
Homeowners ideally seek to find basement finishing experts who offer dedicated and consistent customer service. Because of the unique moisture issues and possibility of water penetration in basements, it may be an advantage to choose a waterproofing and foundation repair specialist offering basement refinishing services.
If no contractor offers this combination of services, it would be to your advantage to begin asking for referrals from a waterproofing and foundation repair specialist because they would be familiar with the quality of work of basement refinishing services in your surrounding geographical area.
At the very least, you will want to speak with the chosen contractor on several occasions to judge how well the company follows through on contacting you prior to hiring them. If issues arise during or after remodeling, getting ahold of the contractor promptly could result in expensive cleanup or damage of personal possessions. Customer service should be at the same level before, during, and after the sale. Ask for references on projects completed in the area and question the homeowners.
The Truth About Basement Finishing
Unless proper measures are taken with maintenance and repairs, most basements will experience either water penetration or outright flooding. Keeping the basement dry is the most important objective.
Consulting with a waterproofing and foundation repair specialist to prepare the basement will ensure that homeowners are fully aware of any existing structural concerns prior to the project launch. Even if there have not been any water seepage concerns in the past, it is most likely worth taking the precaution to at least have an evaluation.
Water seepage, moisture, and flooding can cause inconveniences and catastrophic expenses. Water penetration can be caused from cosmetic issues or a structural problem with the foundation. It can cause indoor air quality issues, mold, mildew, and fungus infestations, and damage to mechanical, decorative, and personal belongings. Recommendations may include
- Waterproofing system
- Drainage system
- Vapor barrier behind walls connected to a drainage system
- Sump Pump with backup power supplies
- Grading Correction
- Foundation Repairs
- Mold-, mildew-, and fungus-resistant materials, flooring, wall treatments, building materials
- Mechanical ventilation system
- Easy-access panels to plumbing, electrical, heating, water heater, and laundry equipment
- Lighting and safety features: recessed lighting, egress windows, doors, and outside entries
While dedication to customer service may not always be easy to assess, there are indications of contractors dedicated to customer satisfaction. A fully transferable lifetime warranty offers 100 percent guaranteed satisfaction and ensures the company is confident of the technical abilities of their crews. Other indications may be reflected in the breadth of service promises offered:
- Comprehensive solutions to your concerns
- Free residential inspections and estimates (for the homeowners)
- Top-quality brands
- Affordable prices
- No changes to service or price without a detailed explanation and your signature
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