Create more space with basement conversion

The need for more space is typical for almost every family. However expanding your house with a new room is expensive. Buying a new house on the market is even larger investment. A lot of people are looking for cheaper and easier ways to expand their living space. Basement conversion is one of these ways. Turning already existing space into a livable room will cost you much less than building a new one.



As with all renovations you should first consider your budget. Check the web for ideas on basement conversion and see what suit your needs.



If you have decided to do the basement conversion, you should check some things. If your basement is prone to flooding and mold problems, you may need to first start some work to remove those problems. Although this is a good investment, it will add some extra cost to your conversion. The basement in most houses is usually a big open area so there are lot of ideas what to make with the space. If you like to hang out with friends or you have teenage kids the basement may be a good place to make a game room. Painting the basement in bright inviting colors is a-must no matter what the room will be used for. Most basements have few and small windows (if they have any at all) so it’s very important to create more light by installing some floor lamps or celling lighting. If you can’t do this yourself hire an electrician to do it for you. Soft overhead lighting is what you should use for billiard or game room for adults.



Another great idea for conversion of your basements is creating a home theater. Instead of trying to hide the limited access of sunlight with painting the walls in bright colors and adding more lighting, use this to make the basement a family cinema. Cover the windows of the basement with dark fabric or install curtains. The second option is better if you would like to use the basement for other needs to. Simply when you’re not using it as a theater, pull the curtains so the sunlight can enter. A few old couches and armchairs with some small tables for drinks and snacks should create enough sitting space for you and your friends. If you like complete theater atmospheres add a popcorn machine and paint the walls in dark colors or install paneling with appropriate color. However keep in mind that painting the walls in black or other very dark color will make it almost unusable for other than home theater. Choose a good big screen television and install it on the wall or even better hang a white screen and connect a video projector on the opposite wall. Keep in mind that during viewings the room may get stuffy with a lot of people.



If the ceiling of the basement is high enough install some ventilation system, if not choose few quite floor fans and put them in the corners of the room. Finish the conversion with adding dim lighting on the ceiling and rope light along the walls.



To read an interesting article about garage conversions, go here. If you are interested in loft conversions, visit this website.