Once overlooked, basements are now gaining the attention they deserve in homes. People didn’t realize how valuable and awesome their basements could be for a long time. But things are changing in Philadelphia, especially in row houses where making the most of space matters a lot. People are becoming increasingly interested in turning their basements into fantastic, functional spaces with smart planning and designs.
As winter approaches, we explain why a basement remodel is a good idea and elaborate on how we, as renovation contractors, tackle Philadelphia winter basement remodels. So, keep reading!
Why Remodel Your Basement?
First, let’s answer this common question by talking about the benefits of a basement remodel:
- A fixed-up basement adds valuable living space. If you want to add extra space to your home, it is a more affordable option than additions. A third-floor addition is a common choice in Philadelphia, where most homes are row houses. Remodeling the basement boosts your home’s value without the cost and chaos of a third-floor addition.
- A dry and well-insulated basement works like an air conditioner for your entire house. Properly sealing off and insulating this area from outside moisture keeps the home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- According to This Old House, 60% of homes in the U.S. have wet basements, and 38% can get mold in the basement. If you fix up your basement and stop water from getting in, you can lower the chance of mold growing in your home. Also, if you ensure the air flows well, you can get rid of any mold or mildew already there.
With winter approaching, we believe this is the perfect time to do a basement remodel with Matrix Construction.
Read more: benefits of a winter renovation
Planning and Executing Your Winter Basement Remodel with Matrix Construction
At Matrix Company Solutions Corp., we can handle all home renovation projects in Philadelphia and South Jersey. Our services include changes, upgrades, and additions. Lately, we have been doing a lot of basement remodels. Here is a quick look at the process if you choose us for your South Jersey or Philadelphia basement remodel.
1. Assess Your Basement
When you think about renovations, planning is the usual starting point for many projects. But with basements, the very first and most important step is to check out the current situation of your basement. Things like moisture and insulation troubles are often a big deal. Our first move is to figure out all the problems, like leaks, mold, and spots where heat is escaping, and ensure your basement’s structure is solid. Winter is the perfect time to spot heat loss areas because it is cold outside.
2. Plan the Transformation
Once the basement is all cleared out, it is time to jump into the planning phase. This phase is where you, the owner, come into play. We want to hear about your vision for the basement remodel and how you plan to use the space. This info is crucial because designing a basement to be a home gym is a whole different world than turning it into a cozy guest room. We consider your expectations, the problems we have identified, and your budget to develop a design that fits the bill. This step is where the big picture of your Philadelphia basement remodel takes shape.
3. Insulating and Heating
As mentioned, dealing with moisture and heat is a big deal for basements. To tackle this, our experts take a crucial step in figuring out the most effective ways to insulate your basement. Various insulation methods are available, and the choice depends on the specific conditions of your building. We also consider different heating options, like space heaters and radiant heating, choosing the best for your basement. We also consider HVAC adjustments, like upgrading the thermostat or modifying the ductwork. The renovation could also be a golden chance to upgrade your HVAC system for a more energy-efficient setup.
4. Decor and Design
Setting aside all the technical details, you want to enjoy spending time in your remodeled basement. Whether it becomes your home office, gym, or cozy guest suite, we prioritize the aesthetics and ambiance of the space. We work on the basement design to meet your preferences and the basement’s purpose. Our goal is to create a delightful and inviting space for you.
5. Apply for Permits
A Philadelphia basement remodel is one of those projects needing a permit from the city Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). As your renovation contractor, we handle this step and all its intricacies, sparing you the stress of navigating the city’s permit requirements. Once we secure the necessary permits, we can start the renovation process without delay.
6. Consider Safety Measures
Safety is our top priority as we work on your winter basement remodel. We take several steps to ensure your basement is a safe and healthy space for you and your family.
First, we ensure there is plenty of fresh air in your basement. This is important because it keeps out harmful pollutants and helps the home’s occupants breathe easily. We also install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These detectors will sound an alarm if a fire or dangerous gases are in the air. This alarm will give you time to get out of the house safely.
Additionally, our team checks all the electrical wiring in your basement to ensure it is safe. This safety check helps to prevent fires and other electrical problems. Taking these steps will make your basement a safe and healthy place to spend time, even during the winter.
7. Execute the Remodel
Once the permits are issued, we can start working on your basement! We will update you every step of the way so you can see how your basement is transforming. We only use the best materials and craftsmanship to ensure everything is done according to local rules and regulations. Tasks may include:
- Tearing down walls and building new ones.
- Doing the electrical and plumbing work.
- Putting in insulation.
- Hanging the drywall and so much more.
The city will also inspect our work at different stages to ensure everything is done right. Ultimately, you will have a wonderfully renovated basement that defies any doubts you may have had about the success of a Philadelphia winter basement remodel!
What Does a Philadelphia Winter Basement Remodel Cost?
Putting a price tag on a basement remodel is not easy. It depends on what is happening in the basement, such as air getting in, moisture problems, or severe structural issues. And, of course, it depends on what you want to do with the space. If you are thinking of adding a bathroom, that means extra costs for plumbing. But to give you a general idea, if you are looking for a full basement remodel, most homeowners are looking at spending somewhere between $50,000 and $150,000.
Conclusion
You have read why a Philadelphia winter basement remodel is a good idea for your home. You may still be wondering if it is worth the effort. A Philadelphia winter basement remodel can be a simple project. It is worth considering if your basement is in bad shape or if you need more space.
And forget the damp, dark basements of the past. With modern construction and design, we can transform your basement into a bright, inviting space you will love spending time in. Take advantage of this opportunity to make your home more comfortable and functional. Call us today if you’re considering a South Jersey or Philadelphia basement remodel! We will happily answer your questions and give you a FREE Consultation and Estimate. Trust me, you will be glad you did!
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