Master Bathroom Remodel Ideas That Will Inspire You

If a person’s home is their castle, then their bathroom is the throne room.

As much as we may not want to admit it, we spend a ton of time in the bathroom. We bathe. We get ready for going out and coming home. We sit…and think. Our bathrooms are a huge part of our lives when we are at home.

Why not spruce the place up and make the master bathroom your perfect retreat; a place where you can relax and recharge?

Here are a few master bathroom remodel ideas to lure you back into the loo.

Top 3 Master Bathroom Remodel Ideas

A master bathroom remodel doesn’t have to break the bank.

There are a number of budget bathroom renovations that can be done without committing to a huge construction overhaul.

Check out these ideas from top bathroom contractors in Regina that can make your bathroom great again.

1. Wall and Floor Decor

One of the quickest ways to give a bathroom a new, fresh look is to update the walls and the floors.

Updating the walls sounds like a mess and a headache, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply adding a new coat of paint, or even adding some texture can be an easy way to start a budget bathroom remodel.

Add some shiplap to your walls for a rustic look, or add some white beadboard to create a beach vibe. A change to the walls can create a totally new bathroom look and feel.

As for the floors, and even the walls, adding tile is always a strong bathroom option because of its ability to withstand moisture and condensation. Plus, a quality bathroom tile design can instantly transform the space.

A quick design tip—don’t feel obligated to stick with the same tile throughout the entire bathroom.

2. Vanity Overhaul

An old, outdated vanity can create a drab feeling in a bathroom.

A sledgehammer and some safety goggles can help remedy this situation though. Older vanities should usually be fully removed. Years of moisture has probably seeped into the wood and added an unwelcome mildew smell.

If the vanity is relatively new, maybe just consider adding quartz countertops in Edmonton with some new sink fixtures. For budget bathroom renovations, shop for remnant pieces of caesarstone edmonton .

3. The Tub, Toilet, and Shower Facelift

Out with the old and in with the new.

Simply replacing the toilet and refacing the bathtub and/or shower is an instant change in the bathroom.

Have an older home with pastel toilets and tubs? Swap out the pastel toilet for a simple white and then consider a tub liner or a tub refinish.

To the Studs We Go… Or No?!

You’re in the bathroom a few times a day, every day. Why not take some time to sit and plan the perfect design.

There are hundreds of master bathroom remodel ideas to inspire any and every look. A great bathroom design doesn’t mean you need to demo the bathroom all the way down to the studs. Regina bathroom contractors can help you avoid this mess.

Ready to make your master bathroom become a reality? We can help you create the perfect plan for your luxurious bathroom retreat.

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

TV Mounting Tips

After all that time spent researching, shopping, and hoping, you and your family have bought the TV of your dreams. The screen is as big as you want it to be and the image quality is spectacular. But, before you start setting it up, are you really sure you want to put the TV up on your own? If not, here are our top recommendations and advice of how to choose to hire professionals for TV mounting vs completing the task yourself.

TV mounting on your own can be a hassle. Trying to figure out the hardware, lifting and steadying the TV when it is being mounted, and getting it just right has its challenges. Buying a new TV is already a big investment, but if you want more than your TV hung up with the wires exposed, you might want to consider hiring a professional. The TV’s wires are an important point. If you would like them hidden, you will have to invest in flat-wire technology, or consider running them into the wall. Attempting to put the wires in the wall can cause costly damages if you attempt this without the proper expertise.

To begin, how would you like the TV mounting to go? Would you like assistance in a basic mount; or, would you like a service that goes the extra mile to not only mount your TV on the wall, but to hide the wires as well? If you would like the wires to be hidden, look for a professional contractor who can handle the electrical and carpentry. You will want to look for a contractor who is licensed and certified as well. Take a look at their website, social media, or LinkedIn to read some reviews. Second, call the company to request references from previous customers.

Remember that a job of any size can have an estimate done! Schedule an estimate with the craftsmen you might hire, contact our team here, to discuss price and what you would like to be done. You will want a professional who will make your experience hassle-free and who communicates puts your needs first.

Once you know how you would like your TV mounting to go, you’ll be ready to call Handyman Connection. Our highly trained and professional craftsmen are experts in mounting TVs and other home repair and home maintenance services. Hiring a professional can save you from the hassle and additional expenses of incorrectly mounting a TV.

Contact Handyman Connection

Call or text your local Handyman Connection office for your next project and quote today. 

The post TV Mounting Tips: Should I Mount a TV Myself or Do I Call the Professionals? appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Cables are one of those things that you will only think about when something stops working and you want to unplug it, but instead, you’re faced with dozens of tangled cables, not knowing which one to unplug – a stress inducing activity that nobody wants to experience.

Tangled cables really are the devil’s work. What’s worse than a massive ball of cables with no end? Trying to detangle them probably. And who’s going to do that? You are, and you will succeed in doing so. It might be a difficult task, it might take some time and it might make your blood boil, perhaps you’ll shed some tears and you will definitely break a sweat, but you will succeed. Now that our not-so pep talk is done, let’s organise some loose cables.

So, you have a beautiful new home office that you’ve been enjoying oh-so-much. Everything is neat, clean and fresh. However, one look under your desk and there is a pile of messy cables and cords ready to make your life a living hell. Stop thinking ‘out of sight, out of mind’ because it’s time to tackle these cables properly organise them.

Detangle time.

Make sure to safely turn off any electrics, such as your printer and computer, before unplugging them from the socket. Once everything has been safely turned off, it’s time to unplug and detangle. Take a deep breath and slowly separate the wires and cables. If you start to get frustrated, take a step back, have a cuppa and then continue.

Label your cables.

While you are separating your cables, it will be wise to label them. This will guarantee you know which cable goes where and which cable is which – computer, monitor, lamp, printer, charger, landline, etc. Masking tape is a cheap and easy way to label your cables.

Tie them together. 

To neatly organise your cables, loosely wrap them and tie them together. You can easily tie them together with Velcro tape, masking tape or any other fastener that you might have laying around the house. We wouldn’t recommend using gaffer tape as it might leave a sticky residue.

Get rid of some. 

Do you really need the cable for that old recorder that you don’t even own anymore? Do you really need 10 different USB cables? Make your life easier by donating, recycling or throwing away unwanted or unnecessary cables.

If you’ve searched for how to organise cables for storage or how to organize electronic cords, we hope that this article has helped! If, after reading our article, you don’t feel like organising your collection of untamed wires and cables, get the Squad to do it for you. We’ve helped plenty of Londoners tidying loose cables in their homes and offices. Simply give us a call today on 0800-0-12-12-12 or request a quote by filling our online booking form.

The post How to organise loose cables appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Major renovations are a big investment that takes lots of work and time. They can quickly become a stressful situation, which is why taking a few extra steps will help avoid that risk. Companies such as LD&A in Calgary specialize in professional, design-build services for renovations. They share what steps you can take with them to tackle any major renovations:

Hire a qualified company 

Step one, don’t handle the work alone! Major renovations require the right range of skills, professionals, and management to cover all the work. Don’t feel the need to tackle all of that on your own, especially when there is help available. Companies such as LD&A, for example, work with you from the early planning stages through the renovations and the finished project. They help turn ideas and visions into concrete plans and designs. They also handle any trade workers or finding the right materials, helping to reduce stress throughout the project.

Plan your budget and backup budget

Having a well-planned budget range in place right away is crucial to ensure you don’t go overboard in any area. It will also help keep your renovation plans and goals on track and prevent making new and unplanned purchases during the work. Also include a backup budget, which should cover any unforeseen incidents. This includes everything from alternative materials, unexpected problems such as mould behind walls, or a design change that affects costs. It’ll also create a helpful guideline of things you can cut if need be and install later. Things like a backsplash or coloured faucets can wait, but not proper plumbing or a solid foundation.

Work with a design-build team 

Design-build is a big advantage when doing any major renovation. A company that offers this means that you have one point of contact to work with for any designs, plans, or construction. It takes a lot of the pressure away from staying in contact with multiple people and trade workers. LD&A, for example, have a design phase as part of the work. Not only do they help with designing layouts and space, but they also start with the end result. How do you want your finished renovation to look? Getting caught up in all the logistics and work is easy to do, and often is what creates so much stress for homeowners. Knowing what your end goals and designs look like, however, helps create a clearer vision.

Ask questions and have fun

Don’t hold back any concerns or questions that you may have about the project. You want to love the finished renovation, but that can only happen if you are clear about your wants and needs. Not sure if there is enough space for an open concept layout or what paint colour would look best? Ask away! The company and team you are working with have years of expertise and ideas to help. They may notice things you don’t or have new suggestions to offer. You’ll never know, though, unless open communication is always present. Major renovations are exciting projects and should be fun. Allow yourself to enjoy the process and be excited about the results to come!

Major Renovations in Calgary

At LD&A, your vision for your home and happiness at the end of the day is their goal. They offer decades of award-winning renovation experience and a guarantee that every project is a smooth transition. With their design-build process, ready laughs, and qualified professionals, every project will be a smooth and value-ensured process.

Contact LD&A now!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

The kitchen and bathrooms are the most commonly renovated rooms in the house. Both types of renovations can improve property value when done properly. Also, by remodeling the kitchen and the bathroom, you’ll improve functionality and your personal enjoyment of each room.

Magnum Construction Services in New Westminster shares more:

The value of a kitchen renovation

A kitchen renovation has a great return on investment. The return is determined by how much of the renovation cost will be added to your home’s overall property value. According to this cost vs. value report, a minor kitchen renovation can recover nearly 78% of its cost at resale. So, if you spent $23,500 on a kitchen remodel, you can add $18,000 or more to your property value.

How you can improve the function of your kitchen

More than adding value to your home, a new kitchen can improve your daily home life. Not only will aesthetics improve, but the way you use your kitchen can also improve too. Custom cabinets with built-in features can make storing and accessing dishes, pots, and pans, and small appliances easy and convenient. Granite or quartz countertops will create a durable workspace, both being resistant to heat and scratching while creating a focal point in the room.

For major remodels, changing the layout of the kitchen can improve function. You can create a good workflow between the stove, fridge, and sink with the “work triangle” design. This will allow you to move easily between each workspace as you prepare meals and cook. A new kitchen island will provide additional storage, more counter space, and even a space for dining.

The value of a bathroom renovation

A bathroom renovation also has a good return on investment. For a mid-range bathroom remodel, expect to recoup up to 64% of its cost in added property value. Depending on what you choose to change in the bathroom, you can increase that ROI by choosing cost-effective upgrades. This is where a professional bathroom renovation like Magnum Construction can help.

How you can improve the function of your bathroom

Bathrooms are a major culprit for wasted water in the home. To improve the function of your bathroom and improve efficiency, install low flow fixtures and faucets. A low flow toilet will use a fraction of the water compared to a conventional toilet. Aerated shower heads and taps also save water, and with innovative technology, you won’t have to sacrifice water pressure either.

Bathroom storage can be an issue, especially in smaller spaces. In your bathroom renovation, plan for additional storage with floating shelves, a corner shelving unit, or adding a new vanity cabinet with more drawers and cabinet space.

Bathroom Renovations and Kitchen Renovations in New Westminster

Magnum Construction Services is a professional renovation company that focuses on kitchen and bathroom renovations. They serve New Westminster and surrounding areas and are proud to be on of the Top 5 Finalists for the 2020 BC Small Business Award. They’re committed to quality workmanship, customer service, and clear, open communication throughout your project. If you are embarking on a kitchen or bathroom renovation, start by contacting Magnum Construction.

Contact them today!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

  

With so many different types and styles of flooring, it can be a bit of a challenge to narrow down your favourites. So, why choose one when you can benefit from a blend? Transitional floor styles are not only beautiful; they add a truly unique design to your home.

Quality Red Tag Floors in Edmonton specialize in providing high-quality flooring. They share some tips when it comes to transitioning between rooms with different types of flooring:

The rule of three does not apply

In many home design elements, using the rule of three is a popular and safe way to design. Lighting, colours, or textures, for example, should all follow this rule. Flooring, though, should not be done in threes. More than two types of flooring create too much chaos, which takes away from that creative design flow. That is especially the case when working with an open floor plan, where design is key. Likewise, even working within the same materials, such as hardwood, still stick to the rule of two. An example of this might be hard floors for the great room, and carpet for the bedrooms or family room.

Pair floor function to the room

As you’re thinking about the best tile to match with your hardwood, make sure it will suit the room. A floor that isn’t moisture resistant in a kitchen, for example, isn’t a great choice since the risk of water damage and spills are higher. Before you choose what material to transition with, first pick what rooms you have in mind. Kitchens and dining rooms will pair well, or a master bedroom with the master bathroom. Once you know the rooms, start to match materials to suit those areas. Also, think of what pairings will look attractive together.

Choose complementary colours

There’s no limit when it comes to blending textures with your floors, but there is when it comes to colours. Instead of creating an attractive design, contrasting floor colours creates a jarring sight. When you choose different colours, find tones that will either match or complement the other. Tile and hardwood, for example, can pair together with shades of earthy browns. For something more striking, a lighter colour will also work with its darker counterpart. A cream carpet, for example, will look stunning against a dark, hardwood floor. Take a look at some online pictures, to get more ideas for beautiful traditional flooring designs.

Don’t forget the colour scheme of the room as well. Your transitional floor will make a great feature, but don’t make it too different from the overall design of the room. If you have pastel walls, dark coloured floors will pair nicely. On the other hand, for darker walls, either choose a light floor or a colour that will match.

Flooring Companies in Edmonton

In everything they do, Quality Red Tag Floors believes in dedicating themselves to quality service and satisfaction. With many years of expertise, they can help you find the right flooring for your home. They offer everything from tile, hardwood, vinyl, laminate, carpet, and more. So, any floor you need or want, Quality Red Tag Floors is readily available to help and provide.

Contact them today and install a new quality floor in your home!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Are you tired of your monochromatic interiors? It’s time to jazz up your place, then. Perhaps your all-white home looked great when you first bought it, but now doesn’t bring you any joy? Maybe you want to add some pops of colour into your rental flat that won’t make you lose your deposit? We’ve put together some ideas to add some vibrance into your home with options to paint or to ditch the paintbrush.

Create a picture gallery.

Add picture frames with bold and colourful art to any room in your home or group together different shaped bright photo frames for a visually appealing wall décor. Maybe choose one sizeable vibrant art piece for a quick wall refresh. If you need some help to hang large pictures or rearrange your extensive collection of frames, the Handy Squad can give you an extra pair of hands.

Add some greenery.

Flowers and plants are perfect to add a small dose of colour and life to any part of your home – bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens. Plus, plenty of plants can also improve the air quality in your home, so it’s a win-win situation.

Related: How to display indoor plants.

Change the lightning.

Lighting will have a large impact on the overall décor of your home. You can choose to go for a colourful statement pendant light to add a splash of colour or you can easily change the mood by choosing colour changing lights. Need to relax? Change your lighting to blue. Having a romantic dinner? It’s time for some soft red lighting. Our London electricians will be able to replace lighting fixtures, change lightbulbs and install LED colour changing lights on your gaming room walls for a futuristic feel.

Get the paintbrush out.

The easiest way to give your home a colour update is by painting it in a different colour. However, don’t just stick to painting all your walls the same tone or painting an accent wall one colour, why not play around with colour? Choose a few contrasting colours and be creative with tape to create a unique graphic pattern.

If painting your walls is out of the question because you’re renting or because it seems like too much of a permanent solution, perhaps giving a coat of paint to forgotten spaces of your home, such as the back of bookcases or skirting boards, could be a good idea. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty with paint, our decorators in London can paint rooms, repaint kitchen cabinets and even paint stairs.

For a quick fix, why not go for a colourful peel and stick wallpaper? It’s easy to install compared to traditional wallpaper and, if you get bored of your current wallpaper, it can be easily removed and replaced. Get the Squad to come by and install a beautiful tropical leaves wallpaper to your living room wall to feel like you’re away on an island adventure.

Add colour to your windows.

Who said that curtains and blinds need to be in neutral tones? Forget about light grey curtains and warm-white blinds, go for colourful curtains and blinds instead. These will add a fresh new tone to your interiors and can tie-in the rest of your colourful living room accessories.

Tile it up.

Give your bathroom an upgrade with colourful tiling or, if that’s too daring, why not choose some colourful grout instead? For your kitchen, add bright and dazzling splashback to make your walls stand out. At the Handy Squad, our team can tile bathrooms and kitchens or simply change the tile grout. Request a free quote by filling our online booking form.

The post Easy ways to add colour into your home appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Canada’s weather is unpredictable, and if your home is not prepared for it, it could cause some damage before spring arrives. Some cleaning or repairs are ideally done before the snowfall, otherwise, it’ll be more challenging with the snow and cold. AdelCo Home Services in Vancouver share how you can get your home’s exterior ready for winter. They focus on three areas: window cleaning, gutters, and general repairs.

Gutter cleaning and repair

Having a clean gutter is crucial to avoid flooding or water build-up around your home. Especially in autumn, there’s likely plenty of leaves up there waiting to cause problems. Having them properly cleaned out before winter will prevent flooding from occurring and causing future damage to your home. These damages can include leaks, foundation issues, staining, rotting, and your gutter may even fall off from the extra weight. Gutter cleaning is a great and necessary option to keep your home safe through the rainy winter, and all year-round. The cleaners will also be able to inform you of any necessary repairs your gutters may need during the cleaning process. Adelco Home Services offers gutter repair, so your home will be in tip-top shape for the wet season ahead.

Window cleaning

The cleaners at AdelCo Home Services rely on the traditional way of cleaning windows. Your windows will get a great quality wash with no streaks or spots. With the use of pure water and the proper cleaning tools, your windows are in great hands. Cleaning your windows is a time-consuming task. If your home is multiple levels, it can be dangerous as you’ll have to climb up onto ladders and possibly the roof. It’s a job best left for the professionals. You’ll be happy to be looking through crystal clear windows as you spend time indoors during the colder months.

Pressure washing

Going further than windows, it may not be a bad idea to get the remainder of your house looking great too. Not only will dirt, stains, and other debris be removed in the process, but you’ll be able to look for any cracks or damages to your home’s exterior. Pressure washing works great for brick and stone, but you shouldn’t pressure wash vinyl siding unless you know what you’re doing. Its possible water can get between the slats and cause some issues. Consider a pressure wash for your home’s exterior to improve the look and find unknown damages.

While you’re at it, have AdelCo Home Services pressure wash other areas of your property. Your driveway, walkways, patio, and swimming pool can all be cleaned and inspected this fall.

Window Cleaning in Vancouver

AdelCo Home Services is a registered Cleaning Company in British Columbia. They are an owner-operated business providing professional and reliable cleaning services for residential and commercial customers. Their excellent services come highly recommended around their service areas because they operate with attention to detail than any other exterior cleaning company to give you the best quality results.

Interested? Check out AdelCo Home Services today!

Click to Find >>>> Window Cleaning in Vancouver

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Whether increasing square footage, adding a new family room or just boosting value, basement renovations have a lot to offer. Still, before you can enjoy all the benefits of one, there’s a lot to consider and factor in first. Unlike most other renovations, basements have many more steps and preparations involved to ensure the overall value and safety of the space. Being aware of humidity, budgets, finishing costs, and design ideas are just a few things to consider.

Following this guide will help breakdown all the steps, tips, and guidelines for basement renovations.

Start with the purpose 

Before you delve into the costs and planning for a renovation, decide how you want to use the basement. Renovating the basement alone will recoup some of your investment, so don’t focus on the ROI aspect to start. Instead, decide what is missing from your home that could be added to improve it, like more bedrooms or a living room. Alternatively, choose a feature that would benefit your own lifestyle, like a home theatre or personal gym.

Bedroom and flex room 

Adding one or more bedrooms to a basement is popular, even if they are just as guest bedrooms. This also opens the future possibility of transforming the basement into a new suite, either for tenants or in-laws. Just be sure to check for any basement renovation regulations or codes if you add a bedroom. For example, proper heating and ventilation, finished features such as walls, floors, lighting, and an egress window are typically required. According to the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC), an egress window must have an area that is no smaller than 3.8 ft. around the window and be large enough to use as an escape.

A flex room or bonus room is another great way to give the basement a multi-purpose design. On its own, a flex room can double as a living room, family room or entertainment space for friends and family. If paired with basement bedrooms, then it can act as a suite addition. Use the space as a TV room, playroom, storage and laundry, or even a home office. There are plenty of ways to use a flex room, and just like a bedroom, it can be included in future plans for a full basement suite.

Bathroom 

Basement bathrooms are convenient, if not a must-have for most homeowners. If you have a bedroom already planned, then a bathroom is a must-have addition. Even just a simple powder room with a toilet and sink is enough to add to a basement. However, to really get value out of the bathroom, make sure to design it to suit the basement’s needs. A living room or playroom, for example, likely doesn’t need a full bathroom with a shower and tub. A home gym or suite, in comparison, would benefit from a bathroom with at least a shower, if not a bathtub. You can save time and money by adding a new bathroom beneath an existing upstairs one. That way, you can use the same plumbing without the extra cost to install new pipes.

Home gym 

For those tired of the commute to the gym, basements are the perfect space for a home fitness area. The basement will have plenty of space to accommodate various workout equipment and to customize the layout. Different types of flooring, like rubber for heavy equipment or luxury vinyl plank for yoga, are easy and cost-effective to install. Keep in mind that gym equipment may have different electrical needs, so bring in an electrician to help. That way, you can maximize the layout and prevent any circuit panel overloads and costly electrical repairs.

Home theatre 

Another of the most popular choices to consider is transforming part of the basement into a home theatre. Not all basements have large windows either, making the darker space a perfect setting for movies. Invest in the right features, like recessed lights, a projector, and a skilled electrician for the sound system. The transformation will be a well worthwhile lifestyle boost, plus it can benefit resale down the road. While not everyone may want a home theatre, the recessed lights and installed electrical system will appeal to many buyers. Who is making the popcorn?

Legal secondary suite 

If you want a way to have some added income after your basement renovation, then a secondary suite is a perfect means. Any money that you invest in a homey suite will have an excellent payback by attracting potential renters and rental revenue. Installing a kitchenette is the ideal way to add a kitchen with all the right appliances, without taking up too much space. Kitchenettes are likewise much more cost-effective, making them ideal in a legal suite transformation. Maximize the open layout design to blend the living room and kitchen area, and then decide how many bedrooms you want. Don’t forget to build a full bathroom as well to complete the suite. Even if you don’t rent right away, you can also use the space for relatives, guests or rent to your college kids.

Basement dangers to look for 

Basement renovations are different from other renovations because the space is below grade. As a result, this brings some unique risks and restrictions for materials that other rooms don’t have. Before you begin renovating, it’s important to make sure your basement is ready and safe to work in. It’ll also make the renovation process easier by knowing what materials are safe to use and how to avoid costly damage.

Moisture 

Moisture is the biggest problem and potential risk that basements face. Not only is it an issue during renovations, but moisture can easily lead to health issues if mould develops. Spotting signs of moisture isn’t always a noticeable puddle of water on the floor, so knowing how to find it is key.

Moisture can get in from both exterior and interior leaks or as a result of poor ventilation. Other causes can be from leaky pipes, cracks in the foundation wall, or humid air from outside seeping into the basement. Since the temperatures in a basement are cooler, the humid air condenses once inside.

Signs: damp, humid air, condensation on the walls and floors, strange odours like mildew, or blistering walls, are all warning signs.

Preventative tips: basement dehumidifiers are a great way to keep the air quality and moisture at optimal levels. Waterproofing the walls and sealing foundation cracks will also help lessen the issue. Make sure exterior gutters and downspouts direct water well away from the home’s foundation. The best solution is a combination of preventative steps to ensure there are no missed areas or ways for moisture to get in.

Mould 

If there is severe moisture in your basement, then there is a likely risk that mould may be growing somewhere. Dark, humid environments are the perfect setting for mould to grow and flourish. If it does, there is a risk of it leading to severe health issues, such as asthma or respiratory illnesses. If you have mould exposure symptoms––difficulty breathing, throat irritation, or your basement has a musky smell––have a professional come in. While there are DIY mould testing kits, a professional is far more experienced and skilled at testing for and locating mould. They’ll also safely remove what is found and help offer tips or plans to prevent any more from growing back.

Material factors to consider 

With the issue of moisture and mould in basements, there are certain materials that are just not recommended to use. Porous materials, especially, risk absorbing any water and becoming damaged. Other materials, such as mould-resistant drywall, are recommended to help keep your basement safe and make the investment into it worthwhile.

Flooring 

Hardwood flooring may look beautiful and attractive upstairs, but it’s an unnecessary risk to use in a basement reno. If it comes into contact with water or even moisture, the wood will expand and crack and become damaged beyond repair. Instead of an attractive investment, you’ll have to pay even more to replace the hardwood floors. Laminate is another floor that should be avoided, which, while low-cost, is just as absorbent.

Best floors: The best floors for basements are resistant to moisture, water, and durable. These include ceramic tile, vinyl floors, carpet, and, as an alternative to hardwood, luxury vinyl plank. Each of these floors can easily last for 20+ years, plus with ceramic tiles, you can install heated flooring.

Drywall 

The great thing about using drywall is it’s convenient, cost-effective, and very flexible in its design. It can be used for walls, ceilings, or archways for some decorative touches. Once installed, it can be painted any colour or given a texture and painted white for a classic finish.

When used to renovate basements, there are some factors to consider. First, make sure the basement is free of any moisture; otherwise, the finished drywall risks becoming warped or developing rot or mould. Also, use moisture and rot-resistant drywall sheets, just like when drywalling a bathroom. Another factor to consider is whether you want to DIY or not. Generally, basement drywalling is best left to a professional. With all the work involved, safety steps to follow, and building codes, an experienced contractor may be a better investment.

HVAC 

If you plan to convert your basement into a suite, be aware there are specific HVAC codes in place that must be followed. If you own a pre-existing legal suite, you can use the heating and ventilation from the main house to save on costs. New suites, however, sometimes require a separate HVAC system installed in them. The same consideration will be a factor even if a legal suite is not in question. Living rooms, home theatres, or gyms will need comfortable temperatures to spend time in. If a new HVAC system is needed, it’s important to know right away so you can plan it into the renovations. The best way to handle this is to hire a contractor to discuss where to house the new system and what size is necessary for the basement.

Cost breakdown 

According to Remodeling Magazine, basement remodels can easily recoup upwards of 70% of the cost, making it a great investment. Before homeowners can enjoy that return, there is first the cost of finishing the basement reno to consider. Finishing work includes waterproofing, framing, drywalling, installing wiring and windows, and possibly more. By knowing what to expect from the cost and work involved, you’ll be able to better budget and plan for your basement reno.

Average cost: $20,000 – $60,000 (These costs are per finishing a 400 to 1,500 square foot basement.)

High-end cost: $100,000 +

Per square foot 

Generally, expect to pay between $35 and $70 per square foot when finishing a basement. These costs may also vary depending on the contractor and quality of materials used in the renovation.

400 square feet: $14,000 – $28,000

800 square feet: $28,000 – $56,000

1200 square feet: $42,000 – $84,000

1500 square feet: $52,500 – $105,000

Finishing costs 

All finishing costs are taken from HomeAdvisor from various basement renovation reports.

These will vary depending on what your basement needs and the overall size, but are generally priced as such:

Waterproofing: $4,500

Framing: $1,795

Insulation: $1,650

Drywall: $1,750

Electrical: $1,325 – $2,880 (Electrical work includes new wiring, outlets, and lighting. Depending on the basement’s use, whether a home theatre or legal suite, the electrical work involved and the final price will vary.)

Permits: $1,160

Other finishing work includes flooring and painting. These can be handled by a professional, but it can just as easily be DIYed to save a bit on overall expenses.

Basement legal suite 

Legal suites are a bigger investment, but also offer big paybacks thanks to the potential for added income. The costs will largely depend on the quality of appliances, how many bedrooms are included, the size of the kitchenette, and the involved work for a new bathroom.

Average cost: $61,000

High end cost: $110,000

Permits 

Basements will need their own permits before you can renovate. The cost for permits varies depending on location, the amount of work involved, and the basement’s size. Besides a building permit, additional permits may be needed for electrical work, plumbing, or a new HVAC system.

Average cost: $1,350

DIY or professional help 

As with any renovation project, the question of whether or not to DIY will come up. The decision will ultimately come down to a matter of skill, budget, and overall value. A professional can always guarantee that the project’s value will go up and appeal to potential buyers if you plan to sell. DIY can save money, but it also invites the risk of making costly mistakes that a contractor could help prevent. As for the cost factor, it typically comes down to the size of the basement.

Professional vs DIY cost 

The bulk of a professional’s cost comes from the labour, which accounts for up to 25% of the total cost to renovate basements. Before you hire a contractor, make sure to get several estimates to find the right fit for your budget.

While hiring a professional is more expensive, think about the long-term value and ROI. A contractor will have the right skills, tools, and expertise to guarantee a quality basement renovation.

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This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com