Unexpected Costs of a Basement Renovation in Vancouver

An unfinished basement is full of possibilities; you can turn that space into any number of rooms or even a separate apartment. However, basements present unique construction challenges that can add unexpected costs. Before you start basement renovation in Vancouver, consider the price of changing the layout, managing moisture and finding the right materials.

Changing the Layout

To get the most out of your basement, you must decide what you want from the space. For example, you can transform it into a cozy hangout space. There are many ways to approach this, including:

• Home theatre

• Home Bar

• Den

If you take the home theatre route, you’ll need to decide where to place the TV and whether you want a sound system. For a home bar, you must choose the location of the countertop, which will act as the room’s focus. Finally, you must allocate enough space for comfy chairs in a basement den — perhaps beside a fireplace.

You can also transform a basement into an apartment for visiting loved ones or rental income. To do so, you’ll have to make several big decisions:

• Whether or not to divide the space into rooms

• How to add a bathroom

• Whether to create a fully functional kitchen

The more you change, the higher the cost, the more time you’ll need and the higher the likelihood you’ll run into problems.

Managing Moisture

Moisture is a huge concern for basements since they don’t have as much natural ventilation. There’s also the possibility of flooding since they’re below ground level. Before renovating an unfinished basement, make sure there’s no mould, as the fungus flourishes in damp, dark spaces. If you notice any of the following, call a mould remediation specialist:

• Musty odour

• Discolouration or stains

• Warping drywall or peeling paint

The good news is that you can prevent mould by reducing humidity. For example, you can run a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of the air.

You can also prevent moisture from entering your basement by properly sealing doors and windows, which can let in outside air even when closed. Warped frames add to this problem. If you notice damage on the frames or your windows and doors are decades old, you should consider replacing them. While replacement may seem expensive in the short term, it’ll save money on repairs in the long run.

Finding the Right Materials

Finally, finding the right materials for your basement renovation can make the difference between a durable space and frequent repairs. For instance, the type of flooring impacts how often you must clean, how dry the basement is and how soon you’ll have to replace the floor.

Concrete is a popular option for basements since it’s highly durable and relatively inexpensive. It’s also extremely moisture-resistant, especially if you seal it. However, it’s not as comfy as other options, as the surface is inflexible and difficult to heat.

If you want to stick to your budget but want something a little cozier than concrete, consider vinyl. You can find vinyl in patterns that mimic stone, hardwood and ceramic tile — you can find a unique design. Luxury options are more comfortable to walk on and warmer to the touch, combating the natural chill of underground living spaces. The downside is that vinyl isn’t as moisture-resistant since there are seams between the planks or tiles.

When basement renovations are in your future, call Handyman Connection for home improvement expertise. You don’t have to search “electrician near me” because we do everything, including wiring. In fact, we can even assist with outdoor projects, such as decks. We’re sure you’ll be wowed by the results. To find out more or get an estimate, contact us online or give us a call.