Basement Damp

Lighting Tips to Finish a Basement

Lighting Tips to Finish a Basement

The choice of lights to finish a basement can make or break the whole room. Not being well-informed can lead to poor selections of lighting fixtures and will turn a basement into a dull and dreary place where nobody wants to go to. But choosing the appropriate lights will make it an interesting and inviting setting for family and friends.

It is wise to consider how much sunlight can enter the basement before doing the lighting purchase and installation. More sunlight is better as this will lessen energy consumption which is good for the budget and the environment. Structural designs to finish a basement may allow for bigger windows to let in more sunlight. However, security measures should not be ignored in the process.

Planning the overall lighting to provide illumination throughout the area is not a difficult task if you know what to put. Fluorescent is the best choice for most homeowners since there is not much chance of sunlight getting in and fluorescent are bright as well as power efficient. As most basements are cold and damp, this type of light will warm up the room and give it a cheerful ambiance. Don’t forget the navigation lights for the entrance and stairway; these form part of the overall lighting, too. Overall and navigation lights should have switches beside the entrance doors or at the top of the stairs for safety reasons.

Accent lights are mainly decorative and are not installed for the lighting purposes. They call attention to decorative details or focus on special architectural designs such as tray ceilings or columns. Accent lights may be colored or may be used to create a cozy ambiance.

Task lights are installed for specific functions. Reading, sewing and doing office work where extra light is needed will benefit from the focused beam of a task light. Task lights for closets and areas under cabinets will also be a great help.

Take advantage of the opportunity to use lights to enhance the atmosphere as you finish a basement that will look and feel bright and appealing.

Need fresh basement design ideas for home remodeling?  Discover more basement remodeling ideas online.


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Posted by admin - December 4, 2010 at 1:45 am

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Foundation and Basement Waterproofing

Foundation and Basement Waterproofing

The foundation of any home is one of the most critical components of the structure. It literally keeps the structure in place, and supports its entire load. Although often neglected, foundation problems are one of the most severe problems that any home can have. The overwhelming majority of these problems are a result of exposure to water.

As a general rule, concrete is not fundamentally a waterproof material. Normally uncracked concrete will repel liquid water, however water vapor and humidity are different animals, and will easily penetrate any type of concrete that has not been treated. Wet or humid crawl spaces and basements can lead to a host of other problems, and are a breeding ground for harmful mold that may pose a health risk to anyone in the residence.

Basement waterproofing and drainage are absolutely essential for building and maintaining a stable structure resistant to moisture and water. Depending on where your home is located, the topography of the land, climate, and foundation depth, the waterproofing process may be fairly simple or more heavily involved.

The major systems of basement and foundation waterproofing can be broken down into three basic elements:

Drains – Proper drainage is necessary to divert water away from the bottom of the foundation. In areas receiving excessive rainfall or runoff, an interior drainage collection pipe and trench coupled with a sump pump can be used to deal with the abnormally high volume of water.

Wall Treatment – Treating the walls of your foundation or basement will block moisture from entering and redirect water down to the drains. Waterproof treatment also substantially increases the lifespan of the walls themselves, reducing cracking, splitting, and discoloration.

Ground Treatment – The soil surrounding the foundation is treated to direct surface water away from the structure. Fundamentally, the most important aspect of this is the grading. The grade of the surrounding soil should provide positive drainage away from the home, not direct water to the home. Also, proper surface drainage can be greatly assisted by a thorough gutter system. The smaller gutter sizes clog easier and will overflow much faster in heavy rains, so be sure not to install undersized gutters. The gutters will collect the water from the roof and divert it away from the outer foundation wall with downspouts.

These three components working in concert will never completely block water or moisture from entering the foundation, however the reduction in contact with liquid water and moisture is well worth the initial investment to have these measures properly installed. As with many things in residential construction, it will normally be much cheaper and easier to treat a basement or foundation properly the first time, rather than attempt to fix a compromised foundation later.

Properly waterproofing a foundation or basement will not only extend its life, but also serve to improve living conditions for you and your family by helping to reduce mold growth and a generally damp and unpleasant environment. If you are looking to move to another location, or are building a new home, always get as much information as possible about how the home was or will be build and what waterproofing and drainage measures were taken.

Debra Nance is Office Manager at Cardinal Concrete Company, North Carolina’s most dependable concrete contractor for over 25 years, offering a variety of services including concrete foundation waterproofing.


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Posted by admin - December 3, 2010 at 4:26 am

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Understand And Control The Flow of Household Moisture To Prevent Damp

Understand And Control The Flow of Household Moisture To Prevent Damp

If moisture manages to creep its way into a house it can create many problems with the damp that it causes. Top of that list are damage to property (even structural in some cases), allergies, mould, bad odours, loss of energy efficiency.

If you want to steer clear of such problems and improve your humidity, air quality and stifle the effects of damp and increase your households energy efficiency then here are a few tips for you to mull over. One of the most important things is moisture control. If you want to prevent the negative consequences of damp caused by moisture and increase your houses energy efficiency then you need to first effectively control the moisture level in your house.

To improve the flow of water moisture around your household the following three things need to be concentrated on.

1) Attics 2) Foundations/Basements 3) Walls

In order to effectively control moisture flow through a home you need to understand the basics of how it moves. The three ways that moisture travels through a home most typically are: 1) By heat transfer 2) By diffusion 3) Via air currents.

By far the most important way moisture travels is through water vapor in wall cavities via diffusion. The air due to simple physics will of course always move from an area of high concentration (outside) to an area of low concentration (inside) through any gap. Transfer of moisture via air flow currents is by far the quickest method, usually cracks and holes in walls are the number one reason for this occurring and these should be effectively filled in.

The other way of diffusion, through materials and heat transfer takes a lot longer and the uasual household building materials are already very good at preventing this from happening, along with insulation which helps in the decreasing of heat transfer.

It will also be helpful to fully understand exactly how moisture appears in a household. Firstly water is usually carried in the air, the hotter the air the more water it is capable of carrying. If the air temperature keeps reducing it sooner or later it will hit a level where it is not able to carry the water anymore. This is known as the dew point and is when the moisture will immediately condensate on the nearest cold surface and start causing problems.

So by having decent vapor diffusion retarders fitted, filling in all cracks and holes and keeping a good flow of air are the easiest and most effective ways to control the spread of moisture and damp. If you are still having trouble with moisture then seriously consider the use of a home dehumidifier (ebac dehumidifiers come highly recommended) they are very effective at extracting moisture from the air even in very damp conditions. If you follow the above guidelines then you ought to be able to effectively handle most damp and moisture problems either with or without a home dehumidifier

DehumidifiersOnline.info provides FREE reviews and comparisons. Click Home Dehumidifiers now or ebac Dehumidifier or Delonghi Dehumidifiers for free advice.


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Posted by admin - December 2, 2010 at 7:05 pm

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The Truth About Basement Waterproofing

The Truth About Basement Waterproofing

The majority of waterproofing today is being performed by system companies.  System companies may claim to offer different methods, but will always steer you to their method, which is usually an interior water control system.  This one size fits all approach to basement waterproofing benefits the waterproofing company more often than the customer.   I can think of no other industry that so predominantly utilizes a system approach as opposed to a problem solving approach.

There remains basically two options available to solve wet basement problems.  Interior or exterior.  Interior work utilizes drainage inside your basement to control the water that is entering and directs it to a sump pump. This method should never be called waterproofing, it should be referred to as water control.  Water control systems allow the water  in, in order to pump it back out.   Waterproofing is accomplished only by exterior excavation to the bottom of the foundation, installing proper drainage, and treating the walls to prevent the water from entering.   Let it in and pump it out, or keep it out all together.   This is the main difference between waterproofing vs. water control.

Which method is best for your foundation?  The overwhelming consensus among professionals outside of the industry, structural engineers, local building department officials, etc. is waterproofing is always the best choice.  So why do so many companies in this industry  propose water control approaches?  The answer is because it is all they do.  Water control systems are relatively easy to install.  It requires very little in the way of equiptment or material.  It is fast, and requires minimal labor skills.   Water control systems do have their place, however if your basement walls show signs of damp spots, cracking, or shifting, than interior systems can possibly make your problem worse.

When evaluating your specific situation, take a problem solving approach as opposed to a system approach.  An honest foundation expert will examine you basement or crawl space to determine the cause of your problem, in order to offer a solution, specific to your needs.  A system company salesman is ultimately unconcerned with the cause of your problem because the solution he will present, is the same for everyone.   You must be aware that a growing number of water control companies are beginning to propose some outside work, such as shallow outside drainage systems, or exploration trenches.  This outside work benefits the customer very little and allows the system company to appear different, and drive up their price.   Excavation outside is only effective if you dig to the bottom of the foundation.

Never fall for the discount you will be offered if you sign the contract today.  Sign now discounts are nothing more than a sales tool to get you to sign on the spot.  Do not make a same day decision, sleep on it.  If you feel pressured, show the salesman the door.  Shop around, do some research, take your time.

Finally, always investigate a companies Better Business Beaureu Report.  Check with your states Attorney  Generals Office for a listing of complaints.  Angies list is a good source to find a good contractor.  Remember a companies size is not always a good indicator of how reliable a company is.

If you have any questions or comments, I can be reached at www.integritywaterproofing.com

Thank you,

Steve Allen


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Posted by admin - December 1, 2010 at 6:28 pm

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Waterproofing: An Essential Step In Basement Remodeling

Waterproofing: An Essential Step In Basement Remodeling

To maximize the use of every square footage, basement remodeling is truly a project worth looking into.  Without having to demolish and build walls anew, you can afford the family that much needed living space in a practical and economic way.  Thus this home improvement is ideal for New York homeowners that have long since been suffering from the housing crunch, made more taxing by the recent economic downfall.  To enjoy all the rewards basement remodeling has got to offer in a long time, waterproofing is crucial whether you are in Long Island, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan, or Brooklyn.

Why waterproof?  Though the answer is quite obvious, many homeowners still overlook the importance of ensuring a waterproofed basement remodeling finish.  By implementing proper measures of waterproofing, comfort is maximized and energy efficiency is enjoyed.  These results to enhanced quality of indoor living as well as a good cutback on your monthly energy  bills.

Water is among the most common problems when it comes to homes.   What makes water dangerous is that it works its way in the most silent way and can unbelievably reach even the most remote areas in the house.  Unless there are visible signs, damages are usually spotted when they have already escalated.  With this, protection through waterproofing is really a must to enjoy whatever finish is planned in the longest time possible.  Some signs that indicate water or moisture problems include:

watermarks
damp spots
deformed and rotting wood
rusted metals
flooding
molds and mildew
blistering and peeling paint
presence of white, chalky substance on walls

There are various waterproofing methods that can be implemented as a part of your basement remodeling and these are commonly done either from the outside or in the inside.  What means you choose will depend on what moisture and water problems are faced and the extent of the issue.  Other than being a solution, these methods can also be great investments as preventive measures.  Here are some of the most common methods that you can consider:

Paints and Sealants

These waterproofing products are common and can easily be bought from your nearest home improvement store.  This special type of paint can be applied to the interior walls to serve both as a finishing touch to the basement remodeling project while adding protection to the walls at the same time.  When visible cracks are present, sealants can be used to fill these up from fine hairlines to larger crevices.

Fountain Drain

Also referred to as French drains, this waterproofing tools are designed and installed to channel water away from the foundations of your home.  The system prevents damages by preventing water from getting near and pooling around the house.

Hydroclay

This type of waterproofing compound works by filling in cracks along the foundation.  When in contact with water, the Hydroclay expands thus creating a flexible membrane protecting your basement walls from water from the outside.  Though commonly applied at construction stage, this can still be of great use to patch up holes or serve as preventive waterproof layer.

Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid the common remodeling New York pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened Basement Remodeling Contractors.

Feel free to use our Basement Remodeling Calculator

.


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Posted by admin - November 30, 2010 at 8:14 pm

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How to Shop for a Home Basement Dehumidifier

How to Shop for a Home Basement Dehumidifier

If your house air is stifling and you are looking for a home basement dehumidifier, then this article will show you the most importance facts to know before purchasing a home basement dehumidifier.

Fact number one is to know exactly what is considered to be High Humidity.

Think of humidity as a percentage of air that is moist relative to dry air. If the air is 30 to 50% relative humidity, then

it is considered safe. If the relative humidity is over 50% then germs and little creatures (microorganisms) that you cannot see start to grow.

A basement air dehumidifier eliminates too much moisture – over 50% relative humidity. Every house that has a basement should have a basement dehumidifier.

High humidity brings health problems with your respiratory system. Damp areas in your house then become the home of small bugs, fleas and moths. When allergies develop, your nose and throat areas are affected and you will feel discomfort. Next, your house walls, furniture, wood can start to deteriorate, decay and a musty smell is now in the air.

There a two types of dehumidifiers:

1. A heat pump dehumidifier pulls moist air over coils that are close to freezing, and the water vapor then condenses and removed via a drain system.

2. The second type is called a dessicant dehumidifer that has a chemical which absorbs humidity in the air.

Before shopping, consider these 3 major points that keep coming up in reviews of home basement dehumidifiers.

1. What is the noise level – quiet or noisy (like a refrigerator)

2. How is water drained? Is a drain hose used or do you have to empty a container. Most units have an automatic shut off when the container reaches a certain level of water.

3. What are the number of damage and return issues.   

So how do you find a home basement dehumidifier at the lowest price?

Your best bet is to find somebody who knows about home basement dehumidifiers and/or find a large number of reviews online for a specific product.

Check out Soleus Dehumidifier for some more tips and great basement deals.

Monte Luxley writes on many health topics, specilizing on natural organic products and use of therapeutic essential oils.


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Posted by admin - November 30, 2010 at 1:40 pm

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Removing Basement Mould

Removing Basement Mould

One of the most widespread problems householder face is the toxic black mould. It can grow almost in every place in a house where there is enough moisture. It is a challenge to get rid of black mould in a basement.

The first step in treating black mould growth is to eliminate dampness. It is quite difficult to do because usually the temperature in the basement is lower than this of the other part of the house. Another very important thing you should do to succeed in removing the mould  is to make sure that no rainwater can come in the basement.

Once you have imposed a blockage to the outside of the house, you should dry the basement using fans or dehumidifiers. After that it is time to begin domestic cleaning and treating the growth of black  mould. Domestic cleaning London recommends the area we are treating to be isolated because this will prevent spreading of the mould spores all over the basement. When you are removing mould you send some of these spores in the air and that  makes  mould really hard for taking away.

A basic mixture of water and borax is the first thing you need to start with. You should spray the area that is affected and score the mould. All materials which have mould on them should be put in a plastic bag for removal. The domestic cleaning continue with going again over the treated area with a solution of bleach water to make sure that there is no mould has survived.

You should dry again the whole basement so that you can eliminate the risk of renew spread of mould. All the materials that might consist mould should be also removed from the basement. Domestic cleaning London advice to check the basement in the next week so you will be sure that it will not be necessary to fight again against the tough black mould. Last but not least it is highly recommended to use painters masks when you treat mould because its spores can make you sick.

Alfred Halfnight is a London-based freelance journalist with a mission to make you a better, cleaner, happier human being. Drawing attention to the peculiarities of life in the modern age is all part of the package. Check out his other articles for everything you need to know about domestic cleaning London companies.


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Posted by admin - November 29, 2010 at 6:05 am

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Wet Basements Need Water Damage Service

Wet Basements Need Water Damage Service

Wet basements are a very frequent grievance of homeowners. Leaks usually happen in homes that are much more than 10 years old. Up to sixty percent of homes see some kind of water damage. Though the proportion of lodgings touched by water damage in the basement seems overwhelming, it is good to know that these crises are most of the time not complicated to fix.


There are some easy things you can do to thwart a wet basement. The gutters demand to be cleaned out and any leaking in them should be patched up. It would be smart to get shields for the gutters which permit water to run in them but don’t let junk to accumulate in them. If water still pools around the foot of your house, you should do some landscaping around the grounds of the residence, being certain that the earth slopes out and down, off from the substructure. If there is an issue with dampness in the basement, putting in a dehumidifier can take care of the difficulty.


It is necessaryto repair the water damage that has been done and caused a wet basement quickly. The most likely cause of the damage are cracks in the walls of the foundation. These fissures are created by water oozing into the cement making it swell and then when the water dries, the cement contracts yielding crevices in the walls. These fractures require being restored.


There are sealing agents available to mend the cracks in the basement walls. These can be purchased at a hardware store. When you have the sealant product necessary to fix the fissures, commence by drying out the wet basement. Unfasten the windows, run a fan, and let everything dry completely. Apply the sealing agent and allow it to dry. These sealers go through deep into the crevices in the filler where they get bigger filling any splits or gaps entirely and for good.


Another cause of a wet basement can arise from leaking pipes. You should watch these often and make sure that any troubles are restored rapidly. This should prevent any water damage from spreading or turning into a flood situation.


If you see that your basement walls become wet after it precipitates or when the snowfall thaws, chances are you have a run off problem. This occurs as water seeps deeply into the topsoil and becomes caught by the firm compacted ground close to the base of the foundation around the house. Hydraulic pressure pushes water into the gaps and fractures of the substructure walls. This job is more complex as both the interior and outdoor walls of the foundation will need to be repaired. If this is a difficulty in your basement, you should phone a professional to remedy the condition as the outdoor restoration will require skilled abilities.


It is important that the substructure is remediated appropriately to make sure that structural alteration to your place is prevented. Always be certain that you use a licensed professional and that you check their credentials and talk with other customers to make sure they are honorable before you allow them to begin work on your location.

Osmund Aft is a writer of Water Damage stories for Amagansett Water Damage Service and Glen Cove, NY Water Damage Service


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Posted by admin - November 28, 2010 at 2:54 pm

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Important Things to Remember in Basement Remodeling

Important Things to Remember in Basement Remodeling

Planning for a basement remodeling project presupposes that the basement space is already present. A remodeled basement can be a statement by itself- a modern and contemporary design yet still giving a welcoming and homey feeling to the occupants. To make your remodeled basement last and stand the test of time, here are some tips to remember.

The first step in basement remodeling is to assess the current condition of its foundation and walls. It is very important to detect and repair all sources of water entry such as pipe and ceiling leaks, defective plumbing and foundation cracks. This will include waterproofing the entire space. This preventive measure will protect your floor, furniture and equipments from problems such as molds and mildew later on. This can be quite an expensive and time-consuming undertaking but moisture problems which could arise by ignoring these concerns could cost you even more.

Next, pay a lot of attention to your walls. Aside from waterproofing them, insulation for walls traps heat inside during winter and expels it during the summer months. A cold, damp concrete slab for a wall is not very inviting, is it? Insulation will also keep your energy bills down, something everyone looks forward to.

Last but certainly just as essential in basement remodeling is the type of flooring you should have. This will depend largely on what you intend to use your basement for. Carpets are ideal for a basement bedroom while ceramic tiles or laminates would look good for an entertainment room or home office. Vinyls are cost-effective if you are working on a tight budget .The options are varied and the styles and designs are endless.

Ultimately, it is the quality of workmanship and design that determine the value of a basement remodeling product. If your basement is the place where you or your family like to spend a lot of time, then you know you have a valuable gem in your possession, both in the pleasure you get from it and the resale value of your house.

Looking for fresh basement ideas for home remodeling?  Discover more basement remodeling ideas online.


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Posted by admin - November 25, 2010 at 9:30 pm

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Square Footage Can Be Maximized and Heat Escaped bt Remodeling the Basement

Square Footage Can Be Maximized and Heat Escaped bt Remodeling the Basement

Copyright (c) 2010 Gerry Stringer

The bad news is real estate is down an average of 24.5 percent from only a year ago. Even worse, real estate values are almost 30 percent off, which means those who bought a home relatively recently at 10 percent down are already about 20 percent up side down.

So the question for those homeowners who aren’t ready to fold and want to hold onto their credit ratings and real property until the economy recovers is whether to remodel.

The basement is, of course, the natural place to deploy smart expansion. Interestingly, the appreciation in a home’s value by remodeling or finishing the basement can offer energy savings vs. the expense that automatically accompanies popping the top (adding a second level) or enlarging the home’s footprint.

How’s that?

Well, a basement with exposed ducts allows valuable heat to be lost. The R-value of concrete’s measurement is as low as 0.08/inch. Multiply that times the standard eight-foot height of a basement and there’s savings to be had by simply furring out the walls and filling in with insulation and drywall. Uncovered heat ducts in an unfinished basement are the worst energy abuser, the heat dissipating into the cold basement through conduction.

Even the youngest baby boomers may not be old enough to remember potato cellars. But those come from America’s Midwest will recall the cool dampness of the cellar and the function of that cool temperature to preserve food (okay, potatoes) that otherwise would go bad sooner than later. That same cool can be turned into a welcome summer retreat when used as an entertainment room, in-home theater, a peaceful corner of the house for homework or even a home office. Sans cold potatoes.

Besides rooms in which to live, homeowners are in dire need of storage space in 2010. One in 10 U, Wikipedia states.S. households rent a self-storage unit in the year 2010. On average, a household spends ,200 a year on a modest-sized storage unit, a cost that is repeated annually for many. You could fill an 18-foot long wall with 6-foot high Metro shelving for ,200 and pay it completely off in a year with the money spared in storage costs.

And when it comes to rooms that can enhance the value of one’s home from a 2010 economic perspective, top on the list is the home office. Now what does that tell you about employment trends? Remote workplace opportunities are growing as well as the number of full-time self-employed people and individuals with two jobs, one by day and a second venture/hobby/second income operating out of home base.

Truly functional square footage is all about quality finishes. By the same token, basement space that would otherwise go unused can be converted into luxury square footage by a professional basement remodeling company.

Gerry Stringer’s career is buying, selling and remodeling homes. His vast experience has led him to Chase Custom Homes for all of his home building needs in Colorado and his basement remodeling services throughout the Denver metro area. http://denvercustomhomebuilder.com/


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Posted by admin - November 24, 2010 at 4:40 pm

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Making Full Use of What is at Hand through Basement Refinishing

Making Full Use of What is at Hand through Basement Refinishing

With the long-running New York housing crunch, moving out or taking on a home addition can pose a lot of inconveniences and difficulties.  Taking advantage of one of the most underutilized areas in your New York home could be just the perfect solution you have been longing for, to answer to the family’s growing needs.  Maximizing the use of space through basement refinishing is ideal whether you are in Manhattan, Long Island, Staten Island, Brooklyn or Queens.

Basement refinishing is truly your most space-efficient and cost-effective option which can not only heighten the quality of living for the family but can also give a good boost to home value.  And being in an out-of-the-way location, the remodeling works will pose fewer disturbances to the household, letting them continue on to their daily routine.  But before anything else, you have to understand the challenges and what it takes for the project to be a success.

Basement Refinishing Challenges

This type of home improvement is not your average remodeling job.  The typical characteristics and features of a basement make up for more challenges and this includes:

.   Support columns,

.   Visible ductworks,

.   HVAC system(s),

.   Inadequate lighting,

.   Inefficient heating and air-conditioning,

.   And insufficient ventilation.

These should all be addressed in your basement refinishing project.  Discuss with your hired qualified contractor what your options are and which can best serve as the solution without breaking the bank.  For visible ductworks and support columns, demolition and relocation is possible but can very expensive.  By creatively integrating those into the design, unnecessary costs and hassles are avoided.

Waterproofing

Being prone to water and moisture problems, proper and enough waterproofing should be ensured to turn the basement refinishing result into a comfortable and dry room, ideal for whatever activity it is set for.  The measures and systems to be used will greatly depend on the extent of water problems ranging from molds and mildew, condensation, damaged drywall, plumbing leaks, structural cracks and flooding.

Basement Remodeling Contractor

A qualified contractor to handle your basement refinishing is one of the keys to its successful, timely and cost-efficient completion.  As was said, this type of project is not an average remodeling job, and experience and expertise are a must to transform that musty and damp basement into a functional extension of your living space.  A qualified contractor who has already had some fruitful years in the industry will be already well-versed with the building codes on insulation, barriers and other items needed to avoid future construction problems.  Working on basement refinishing will also require subcontractors working on specialized areas.  With your contractor’s established connections with other professionals, every detail of the project is given efficient attention.

Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened Contractors Manhattan.

Avail of our free construction ballpark estimates.


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Posted by admin - November 24, 2010 at 1:55 am

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Basement Space ? Residential and Commercial Property is in Demand Suddenly

Basement Space ? Residential and Commercial Property is in Demand Suddenly

Basement space – residential and commercial property in india is in demand suddenly, but there are a number of things you should keep in mind before buying one.

Want you own place in a smart locality but put off by the prohibitive cost? Wait, there’s still hope for you – if you’re willing to go underground and into a basement. Space below the ground floor usually goes cheaper – and is preferred by professionals and those who under civic laws are permitted to carry out commercial activity there

In fact, basements, which till some years back were seen as a dumping space for useless furniture, etc, are slowly becoming hot properties in India. There are several reasons for this – the first and foremost being costs. When it comes to a building, the basement cost is lowest compared to the other floors – almost 50 per cent less than first floor prices, depending on area and space.

The ground floor or what’s referred to, as ‘showroom space’ in commercial areas is the most expensive, followed by the first floor and then other floors. The top floor of a building – if built keeping luxury in mind and with added facilities, can also fetch a good price, though the American penthouse has yet to gain popularity in India as premium property.

Another plus for basements both for self use and investment is that under the new Master Plan it an be used for select professional activity by doctors, lawyers, architects, chartered accountants, company secretaries, cost and works accountants, engineers, town planners, media professionals and documentary filmmakers. However, one should note that the Master Plan matter is pending decision in the courts, its provisions applicability subject to court scrutiny.

Earlier, legally speaking, basement use by law was restricted to storage space or parking and though they were aware of the fact people used it for commercial purposes – knowing well that the authorities could take action against misuse of property and seal the place.

Another great advantage a basement has in a city like Delhi, where temperatures remain high for about eight months, is that it’s relatively cooler when compared to other floors. Also, largely due to its proximity to the ground level, most basements have hindrance-free access. Many also have large entry doors and are relatively free of disturbances – doors banging, people coming and going as they please

However, basements have their negative points. The biggest disadvantage of living or working in one is that a basement by law cannot have a bathroom or kitchen. If you do have one you’ll face the problem of water flowing back as there’s no provision here for letting water flow down.

Water seepage is another problem – especially during the monsoons, leaving the place damp, with flaking walls and impossibly smelly. If you are buying such a property make sure the walls have been waterproofed. This treatment can be very expensive so make sure it’s done before you buy or you’ll be saddled with additional expenses.

Also, check if there’s provision for a basement in the sanctioned building plans, and the specified size. If the builder has created additional space then it’s unauthorized.

For the rest, stick to routine scrutiny of title deed, fully payment of electricity, water bills and property tax.

Kamaldeep writes on behalf of Real Estate India Portal, which is a real estate portal and meet every aspect of the consumers needs in the real estate industry. It is a property website where buyers, sellers & brokers can post the property information. Kamaldeep is writing for other big portals as well i.e. Dwarka Property and Health and Beauty Secret.


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Posted by admin - November 20, 2010 at 10:57 am

Categories: Basement Moisture   Tags: , , , , , ,

3 Essentials To A Successful Basement Remodeling

3 Essentials To A Successful Basement Remodeling

In New York, where the housing crunch runs decades back, extending living space can be a real luxury.  One practical way that many homeowners miss to consider is basement remodeling.  Undertaking such a project saves your house from the unnecessary breaking down of walls and your pocketbook from the financial burden that a home addition poses.  When done right, this would surely prove beneficial by affording you and the family more living area to make everyday life simply more enjoyable as well as increasing the value of the property letting you enjoy a recoup on your remodeling investment.  So whether you are in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, or Queens; ensure these 3 essentials to a successful basement remodeling.

Basement Remodeling Plan

No matter what project you decide to take on, big or small, it is the plan that lays out success from the very beginning.  This comes especially important with basement remodeling.  Why?  It does not qualify for your average renovation work and the job presents a set of unique challenges.  With this said, your best and safest way to go about the project is through hiring a qualified contractor unless you are one yourself.  With one, you will be giving the most value for your money with a completion that is within budget as well as timeframe.  Your specification plan should cover everything from the major steps to the littlest of details.  Take note of both your needs and wants and discuss with your contractor the best possible ways to achieve them considering your budget and what your basement can accommodate.

Basement Finish Idea

When it comes to ideas, there are a good number of options that you can explore.  But whichever finish you opt to pursue, it is important that the result would complement well with the family’s lifestyle and that the idea will make the best use of the area.  One great tip though that may come in handy is that you could take advantage of the ready access to plumbing by adding another bathroom or kitchenette in the plan.  Aside from being practical, this an also add more value to your home.

Waterproofing

Originally constructed to not serve as a living area, there are factors that you should look into first to be able to maximize functionality and comfort.  It would be best to let your hired contractor or other qualified professionals evaluate the area first to know the extent of problems and the appropriate solutions to implement.

When it comes to any basement, water and moisture issues can be considered a universal issue faced by homeowners.  Other than the obvious signs such as flooding, here are other indications to be wary of:  

damp spots
chalky white residues on your walls
rust on metal surfaces and dry rot on wood
peeling or blistering paint
mold and mildew, from obvious growth to moldy odor

Varying levels of moisture or water problems will require different methods of repair and waterproofing.  But even if no signs have been spotted, preventive waterproofing should still be in place to ensure a long-lasting basement remodeling finish.

Eugene Makeev uses his skills and expertise to help home owners in Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island avoid the common remodeling New York pitfalls by matching their needs with prescreened contractors NYC.

Visit us for more on remodeling ideas.


Article from articlesbase.com

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Posted by admin - November 19, 2010 at 3:33 pm

Categories: Basement Moisture   Tags: , , ,

Safety in Basement Remodels

Safety in Basement Remodels

One factor that should not be overlooked in basement remodels is safety. The homeowner’s protection is of paramount importance when planning basement renovations. Safety guidelines are also incorporated in local building codes and following them will also prevent unnecessary revisions.

Basement windows, window wells and covers have a double purpose. They serve as emergency egress in case of fire and other calamities (this is a major requirement in all local building codes) and also allow entry for natural light. Basement bedrooms require windows with lower ledges measuring not more than 44 inches from the floor and at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening space. Window wells are formed by digging out the ground in the area around basement windows to allow for the construction of larger windows. Window well covers are then fastened to its tops to keep debris or animals from falling.

Waterproofing before proceeding with basement remodels is a health and safety concern especially for children and elderly people since these age groups are very susceptible to diseases. Waterproofing includes repairing all defective plumbing and cracks on floors and walls which add to the dampness and humidity in the basement since this is fertile ground for molds. Molds can cause many diseases, common among them skin rashes, dermatoses and allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses and even eye problems.

Alarms and detectors should be an integral part of basement remodels for them to be considered safe. Since fire can be caused by carelessness or faulty wiring installations and accidents in basements are less likely to be detected immediately than in the main house, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will do the job.

Renovating the basement must be a carefully planned project to ensure the homeowner’s safety and well-being. In making the egress openings, the structural integrity of the whole house must be protected as well. Hiring the services of an architect will eliminate future problems in safety compliance. Basement remodels, if done according to safety precautions and superior construction and design, will certainly give you the best value for your money.

Find out how simple basement remodeling ideas can turn your old basement into lovely living spaces.  Check out the latest basement remodeling ideas online.


Article from articlesbase.com

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Posted by admin - November 19, 2010 at 6:38 am

Categories: Basement Moisture   Tags: , ,

What You Need to Know About Basement Subfloor

What You Need to Know About Basement Subfloor

A basement subfloor is any material that is installed below the floor. Basement floors are usually concrete slabs and these should have a subfloor to provide a good foundation for expensive floor finishes and lengthen its life.

Modern developments in home construction is to install subfloors to raise the value of the home for future reselling, convert the basement into a living space and add extra insulation to provide warmth, dryness and soundproofing. It also provides protection to the basement flooring material against high humidity by allowing the passage of air beneath the floor. Traditional functions of a basement subfloor are to protect flooring materials from moisture damage and give an even surface to the floor.

A quality basement subfloor material, whether it is made of polyethylene film, mastic, cement-based compounds or lumber must have features such as drainage capability, anti-leak to prevent discharge of moisture onto the flooring material. It should also give warmth to the floor by up to 30% and increase foot fall absorption. Conventional basement subfloor materials are hardwood and plywood panels.

The most important thing to keep in mind when installing basement subfloor is to ensure a firm, flat surface. Prior to installation, it should be ascertained that there is no structural damage and that all angles are square and joists in good condition. The selected subfloor must be suitable for the chosen flooring. It should also be strong enough to hold the type of flooring material and the furniture that will occupy the room. If in doubt, it would be wise to bring in a contractor for his professional advice and supervision.

Some subfloor panels may contract or swell when exposed to changing temperatures and humidity. Therefore it is advisable to keep them in the basement for 24 hours or longer and out of their packaging to let them get acclimatized to the basement atmosphere. They will then shrink or swell to the size they will maintain.

A basement subfloor will be a good investment in the long run. It can turn a cold, damp room into a warm and cozy living area.

Need fresh basement design ideas for home remodeling?  Discover more basement remodeling ideas online.


Article from articlesbase.com

Posted by admin - November 17, 2010 at 11:06 pm

Categories: Basement Moisture   Tags: , , , ,

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