According to Remodeling Magazine, the top ten home improvements that offer more than a 50-percent return on your investment are kitchen, bath and basement remodels. Here's a rundown on what you should consider when you decide to beautify your basement:
- If you're planning to install a bathroom or a wet bar, plumbing needs to be the first priority since pipes may need to be installed beneath the cement floor.
- If your basement is not already equipped with glass block windows, install them now.
- Once the plumbing system is in place, be sure to install a sufficient number of electrical outlets and telephone lines to accomodate TVs, cable, lamps and computers.
- Drywalling is the easiest way to cover cement and cinder block walls. Don't forget baseboards to protect the drywall from dents or scratches.
- When it comes to ceiling choices, acoustical tiles are a safe bet. Not only are these tiles esthetically pleasing, but they also provide easy access to utilities for the rest of the house.
- Since the floor of the basement is in direct contact with the ground, it is going to be cold. Installing a subfloor between the concrete and flooring surface (carpet, tile) will provide a warmer, dryer environment.
- Replace existing door on the main floor leading to the basement stairs with a French door. More light will reach the basement, and you won't swing open a door in someone's face.
- Use horizontal design elements to emphasize the width and length of the room rather than its lack of height. Set floor tiles in a diagonal pattern to make the room feel wider.
Source: www.absoluteremodeling.com and www.homeandgarden.makeover.com
