Many people use their basements for additional storage, but these spaces can be used for so much more when they’re finished. For example, with basement remodeling, you can transform your space into an extra bedroom. Below are some general guidelines for conversions to help you prepare for a consultation.

How to Transform Your Basement Into a Living Space

1. Add Waterproofing & Insulation

Basements are known for being damp. Without proper preparation, the humid air may make the room uncomfortable and promote harmful mold growth.

Insulate and waterproof the basement to keep moisture at bay. Contractors will add insulating materials to eliminate damp walls and flooring, control moisture, and reduce drafts.

2. Alter Ceiling Height

Building codes vary by municipality, but the general ceiling height requirement for a finished basement is 7 feet.

If your house doesn’t meet this standard, the contractor may dig up the basement floor, remove the dirt underneath, and re-lay the concrete to give the space a few extra inches of height. This task doesn’t typically require moving support beams.

3. Install a Second Entryway

If the basement was originally intended for laundry or storage, it might only have one exit into the home.

However, once the room becomes a living space, it requires an additional egress to meet safety codes. This could be a window or door, but it must be readily accessible and lead to the ground level outdoors. 

4. Finish the Walls & Floors

To create a cozy bedroom, hide the basement’s original concrete finishings.

Contractors encase ductwork and pipes and add flooring with padding underneath. Choose materials that are waterproof and mold-resistant, such as tile and vinyl.

If you’re ready to transform your home with a basement remodeling project, turn to the professionals at Purpose Driven Restoration & Remodeling. Located in Elk River, MN, this company offers exceptional home improvement services for residents throughout the metropolitan area of Minneapolis. These licensed and insured contractors value transparency and only use high-quality materials they’d be comfortable adding to their own homes. Call (877) 725-4737 for a free estimate, or visit them online for more details about basement remodeling.