Surveys done by the New York Times, the CBC and Velux show that about 1 in 4 Canadians spend almost their entire day (21 to 23 hours) indoors. This makes sense because Canada experiences very long cold winters, making Canadians retreat to the comfort of their homes for longer periods. Within our homes, basements have been the space where we all retreat with our families and friends during those long cold winters or scorching summers. Basements come in many forms, ranging from indoor hockey rinks to traditional wood-panelled, shag-carpeted party rooms.
There is growing interest among Canadians to utilize the basement as an additional living space through smart home renovation Ottawa. However, most people do not know what steps to take in basement renovation Ottawa to unlock a basement’s true potential. This brief article helps you understand the process of transforming your basement into a functional place you can retreat to with your family and friends during those long cold winter months or scorching summers.
Consider cost
Cost is an important aspect of basement renovation, in fact, any home addition or renovation. Any projected costs will depend on the kind of basement transformation you intend to achieve.
For example, your basement renovations could be inspired by the need to utilize your basement as:
- A fully integrated space in your home
- A place for kids to play
- A place to dump old furniture or electronics
There are merits for each of the above uses to which a basement can be put. For example, while renovating your basement for use as storage space has a minimal cost impact, it compromises your home’s functionality and value. To get a clearer picture of what your project might involve from start to finish, our basement renovation process page walks you through every stage in detail.
If budget is a concern, our renovation financing page outlines options available to Ottawa homeowners to help make your basement project more manageable.
Consider renovations as an investment
Because your basement often matches the square footage of your main floor, fully integrating it through professional finished basement renovation services significantly increases your home’s potential. Transforming your basement into a fully functional extension of your house requires a bit more planning and budgeting appropriate for the kind of improvements you envision.
Expect to invest money in your basement renovations as you would invest in another home. You have the option of cutting costs by using lower-grade materials and lesser-quality contractors. However, if you want to increase the usability and value of your home, say by using good materials and fully automated functions like Bluetooth and touch-activated electrical systems, your budget will definitely exceed the initial amount you set aside.
Basement renovations that include the following features will increase your home’s potential:
- A few rooms
- Family space
- Home theatre
- Office
- Gym
- Basement bathroom
For homeowners looking to add an entertainment room renovation to their basement, this is one of the most popular investments that adds both usability and resale value. If you are thinking of creating a separate suite, a rental unit renovation is another excellent way to generate ongoing income from your basement space.
Adding a bathroom to your basement is also a smart move. Our basement bathroom portfolio project shows how even a compact lower-level bathroom can be designed and finished to a high standard.
When you decide to turn a basement into living space, you will still need to leave some room for the following:
- The furnace and hot water tank
- Storage space for holiday decorations
- Storage for once-a-year plates and serving platters
- Storage for a few boxes of clothes and items you might want to keep
Whatever you want to achieve with your basement renovations, always ensure your budget is commensurate with the functionality you envision. For design ideas and layout inspiration before getting started, visit our basement renovation ideas page. You can also browse our basement reno portfolio to see examples of completed projects in the Ottawa area.
Your basement is a substantial square footage in your home that can be renovated to increase your home’s potential, eliminating the need to move or invest in a costly home addition Ottawa. To understand the full renovation journey from planning to completion, our reno 101 process is a helpful starting point.
Ready to Transform Your Basement?
Ben Ozorak is one of Ottawa’s leading basement design-build and renovation firms. If you are considering investing in an Ottawa basement renovation to increase the potential of your home, we are here to help you realize an unmatched home transformation through professional basement renovations. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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