Are you planning your basement finishing and need some valuable tips? The process of finishing a basement brings many hassles for homeowners.

As professionals in basement remodelling in Northern Virginia, we fully understand you.

If you are feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start from, we have you covered.

In this new article, we share the crucial steps you need to take. Once you go through it, you will have a better understanding of the basement finishing process.

How To Plan Your Basement Finishing The Right Way

Planning Floor Model

If you have decided to finish your basement, consider this an intelligent financial decision.

We already brought up the topic of how a finished basement is a good investment.

Even if you don’t plan to rent your basement, the remodelling will raise your property’s value. In addition, expanding your living space will enhance comfort.

Planning your basement layout is the initial step in the process. The first thing you need to do is determine how you will use the space.

If you plan to have an entertainment room, you might want to add a wet bar. An in-law suite is an excellent idea, but keep in mind that you need a full bathroom.

Layout

A smart layout allows you to use every single inch of the available space. Be mindful of the traffic flow and plan a pattern that fits your needs.

An open concept is the best choice, especially for compact spaces.

The airy design makes the basement apartment feel more spacious because you don’t waste the space on walls and hallways.

In addition, the open floor layout provides more natural sunlight.

If you want to create a fully equipped apartment, go for a full kitchen with a dishwasher. A separate laundry is another thoughtful addition.

Even if you don’t have enough space for a separate room, a small closet will work fine.

Local building codes

When it comes to designing a layout, be mindful of the local building codes. For basements, there are strict rules that you should follow.

For safety, the space needs to have emergency exits. The windows need to open and be large enough for people to use them in case of emergency.

Check the local regulations for the exact window size requirements.

Choosing Materials

When we talk about basement finishing, the choice of materials is crucial. You will be looking for moisture-resistant materials suitable for the basement.

Insulation

The use of proper insulation is required by the building codes. In addition, this critical step will prevent the heat from escaping and avoid moisture.

• Spray foam is easy to use and works well around pipes.
• Foam boards are often used for basement insulation. The products are available in different thicknesses, so choose the one that suits the building codes.
• Froth board and fibreglass is a hybrid approach for spaces that don’t have problems with humidity.

Walls

Drywall is available in waterproof varieties, special for use in a basement. Your contractors will choose moisture and mildew-resistant drywall panels, according to the local building codes.

Flooring

Remember that the flooring choice will make the space look stylish and put together. Vinyl flooring is one of the best picks when it comes to basement flooring.

It is available in different varieties, imitating natural textures such as wood and stone. This material is made of PVC, meaning that it is waterproof and durable.

Ceramic tiles are a versatile option that is also waterproof. While tiles give you freedom for colours, textures and patterns, they can be expensive.

Epoxy flooring is another option to consider. It is waterproof, but some might not like that it is sturdy and cold.

While carpet and hardwood are elegant options, they can be easily damaged by humidity.

Choosing A Renovation Team

While there are many renovation contractors in Northern Virginia, be very picky when choosing the one to work with.

Start with asking for quotes for your project and compare them. Offers that appear too low could indicate a shady process.

The contractor should include a breakdown of their offer to justify the price.

When looking for the right contractor, these are the things you should have in mind:

• Assess their level of communication. A good contractor should be able to listen to you and understand your needs.
• An experienced company that has been in the business for a long time has the needed expertise and experience. This will ensure a great experience and project execution that aligns with your vision.
• A reputable contractor won’t hesitate to show you their license.
• Check their insurance. Every company should have insurance in case of damage or injury. If they don’t, you are liable for anything that happens on your property.
• Ask if they can provide a list of references. A good contractor will provide a list of past clients that you can contact to ask for their experience with the company.
• Ask about the starting date and the timeframe to see if it fits your plans.
• Checking Finished Job Before Final Payment

Once the hefty construction process ends, it is time to check if the job is done correctly.

Before you pay the final check, make sure to inspect the work by yourself and together with the contractor.

Due to the complexity of the project, there might be some minor flaws. For example, there might be visible drywall joints, or the windows don’t open properly.

The owner and the project manager create a punch list of all things that need to be fixed.

Make sure to do a walk-through with a friend or family member to spot the irregularities.

Then, do a walk-through together with your assigned project manager and combine your punch lists. This way, you avoid overlooking some minor flaws.

Final thoughts

The basement finishing process can be lengthy and exhausting. However, you will get to enjoy the enhanced comfort and added value.

To save your precious time and effort, be sure to work with the right contractor.

If you need help with your basement remodelling project, the USA Handyman Services team is always here for you. Don’t mind contacting us, and we will gladly assist you!