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How to Upgrade Your Basement on a Budget

With its cold concrete floor, exposed plumbing and electrical, and lack of conditioned air and natural sunlight, your basement probably isn’t a place you want to spend a lot of time in. Yet the cost of finishing a basement, complete with drywall and recessed lighting, may be prohibitive.

Does that mean this extra space should go unused? We think not. Read on for tips on how to turn your basement from dark, dreary, and cold into a space the whole family can enjoy.

Clean and Dry

Before you begin, take steps to ensure the basement is clean and free of debris and junk. Consider sealing the concrete floor and filling cracks in the foundation if needed. If dampness is an issue, invest in a good quality dehumidifier or two to keep mold at bay.

Inspiration

Tap into the already existing industrial look of the space. Think of the exposed beams, plumbing pipes, and concrete as a jumping-off point for décor rather than an obstacle. Then add character and warmth with fabrics, area rugs, and décor.

Paint Exposed Beams

If installing a drop ceiling isn’t an option, paint exposed beams to make the area feel a little more finished. Consider black, grey, or navy for a modern, moody vibe or a crisp, light color to brighten up the space.

Lighting

In most cases, a basement isn’t the best lit part of a home. So, add lighting and ambiance by hanging string lights across the ceiling. Choose those rated indoor/outdoor as they will better stand up to temperature fluctuations.

Create a Canopy

If leaving beams and rafters exposed is a little too industrial for you, hang swaths of flowy fabric from the ceiling to create a soft, pillowy canopy.

Paint the Floor

A coat of paint can go a long way toward dressing things up, especially when applied to a cold concrete floor. Make sure the floor is clean and dry, filling in any cracks or gaps. Choose the right paint for the job. Start with two coats of primer, apply two coats of epoxy paint, and a few coats of masonry sealer (allowing the floor to dry completely between applications).

Soften the Floor

Once the floor is painted, throw down a couple of area rugs to warm up the space and add a little cushion under foot. Foam mats are another easy, low-cost solution, perfect to define a play area or workout space.

Divide and Conquer

If the area you’re working with shares space with the washer/dryer, furnace, or water heater, use inexpensive curtains to divide the two “rooms” without the need for construction. Install a track or curtain rods on the ceiling, or simply stretch picture wire taut from one wall to the next. You can also purchase a privacy screen or two. Just be sure to keep an appropriate clearance around mechanicals.

Or let’s say you want to take your basement upgrade a step or two further and add things like a half bath, a spare bedroom, etc. That’s where Messmer Mechanical can help. We provide all the required plumbing, heating, and cooling services you’ll need to create the kind of space you have in mind. Contact us today for a free project evaluation and proposal.