A finished basement can increase your square footage and boost your home’s value. However, a basement remodeling project isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. Like every home improvement project, it comes with potential problems that you need to sort through. Being prepared is the key to a successful basement project.
As skilled basement remodelers, we’ve faced different challenges in our work. Let’s explore common challenges and solutions during a basement renovation.
Moisture
When renovating a basement, moisture buildup is the first issue to tackle. Since it’s located below-ground floor, basement spaces are humid and damp. Poor ventilation and groundwater seepage should be addressed during the project.
Solution
One way to dry out a damp basement is by sealing up any gaps. Your foundation must be properly sealed to avoid droplets from forming. Moisture-proof caulking will also seal holes where humid air passes through.
In addition, a dehumidifier can remove excess moisture and water vapor in your basement. It can reduce moisture content by 50% and maintain an ideal indoor relative humidity level.
Mold
In relation to excess moisture, mold is a very common basement problem. Mold spores grow due to leaky foundations or condensation. Basement mold is not just unpleasantly smelly—it also affects a person’s health. It can cause allergic reactions and breathing difficulties in both children and adults.
Solution
There are many mold-killing solutions that you can apply to the surface. Bleach and hydrogen peroxide are non-toxic materials for mold removal in your basement. Simply spray the mixture on the affected areas and allow the solution to sit on the surface. Next, you may use a brush to scrub off the mold and mildew. Make sure to consult a basement remodeler before you start with the mold removal.
Inconvenient Columns
When we think of basements, we imagine columns and ductwork. These vertical columns and posts support the weight of your home. That’s why they can be difficult to remove during a basement remodeling.
Solutions
You can convert such structural support into more attractive basement features. Reconfigure them as bookshelves or cabinets. Doing this will improve your basement aesthetic and add more storage space.
Another way is to hide them using pole wraps or covers. This is a sheet of decorative wood that can seamlessly conceal Lally columns.
Lack of Natural Light
Your basement is an underground room, which is why it is expected to be dark. Due to the lack of windows and low ceiling, it’s difficult to bring in natural light. A dark basement is an unwelcoming environment. Proper lighting fixtures must be installed to improve the ambiance of the space.
Solution
Installing proper lighting is the best way to go. LED recessed lights are popular because of their energy efficiency. Overhead lighting, track lights, and lamps can also brighten the area. Compared to incandescent lights, these fixtures are the most ideal for a basement space.
Radon
Radon is an odorless, invisible gas that comes from decaying Uranium. High levels of radon can be found in basements or areas in contact with soil. When there’s radon buildup in your basement, this can cause lung cancer and other diseases.
Solution
First, have your basement tested for Radon. This will determine if radon levels are high and alarming. To solve the problem, a radon mitigation system can be installed in your home. This system is designed to reduce radon gas concentration indoors.
Low Clearance
Most of the time, basements have less overhead clearance. This can be a challenge, especially if you need to meet height and clearance requirements. A basement remodeling company near you can renovate the area for more vertical space.
Solution
To create more clearance, you need to move the pipes and ductwork in your basement. Another solution is to replace them with narrow support beams. Installing bright lights will also make an illusion that the space is wider than it really is.
Hire Our Professionals Today!
These basement problems are not easy to deal with. Sometimes, you need the help of an expert to overcome these challenges. At Pittsburgh Basement Remodeling, we are at your service.
Our team can address flooding concerns, remove mold, and transform your unfinished basement! We aim to make your space more livable and functional. To schedule an appointment with us, feel free to contact our staff. We are always ready to help you!