A basement remodeling project can be a terrific way to take an existing unused space and convert it into an extra bedroom, a children's play area, a home theater and more. Take into account the size of the area, the water logging conditions in the Pittsburgh, PA area in which you live, and the new use of the basement before you begin finishing your basement. It takes some creativity and a lot of hard work to get a basement from a dank and dark space to a bright and cheerful family room or entertainment center. Basement remodeling is always done to create a new space for leisure, although you can just as easily turn your basement into a home office.
The first step towards a beautifully finished basement is waterproofing. Moisture problems in your basement can quickly lead to icky mold and mildew growing on the walls, peeling paint, musty odors, and cracked and crumbling walls. Even if your basement looks perfectly dry, it is advisable to take care of water proofing before basement finishing to avoid damage from flooding or leaks later.
The flooring too may have to be reinforced by laying a sub floor over the concrete basement floor. This provides a base for your other floor coverings. Use light colored paints on your walls to create an illusion of brightness. For finished basement that will have multiple uses, don't clutter the entire area with furniture and equipment. Instead, section off the basement into separate areas by using partitions, or putting up walls.
Before you begin on your basement remodeling project, plant out your floor space to visualize what your finished basement will look like. Changing minds mid way through the project will result in loss of money and time. Also, consider the age of the people who will use the basement most often. For instance, if you are finishing your basement to use as an extra bedroom for your parents when they come to town, you will need a fully outfitted bathroom with a bath tub. If your local building quotes call for an emergency exit for all bedrooms, you will have to provide for this too. Once you have a floor plan for your finished basement, it's easy to design the new space to reflect your tastes.
I need contractor to remodel a condo. Scope of work is as follows: wood flooring common areas , carpet in bedrooms, slate pavers in kitchen, painting throughout, light electrical, plumbing fixtures in kitchen and baths, resurface cabinetry throughout, tile in showers, granite or concrete countertops in kitchen and baths, light rough carpentry, install new appliances kitchen, etc. Please contact me so we can discuss scope of work and project timeline.
Mark F
I am interested in adding on to my home while in the middle of our rebuilding. My current home is 1632 sf. What I would like to do is add on to my kitchen and master bed room, both are in the back of the the home but on both levels (the home is a two story). Approx add on is 342 sf or a 9w x 23l. Can you please give me an estimated cost for labor, materials and if this includes plumbing and electrical. Thanking you in advance for your cooperation.
Freda T