Michigan basements can be a drag. They can be dark, damp, and unwelcoming (and some are downright gross). But fear not… with just a few key steps, you can have an amazing space. So how can you finish your basement like a boss? If you want the best basement in Grand Rapids, read on…
1. Start with the Bones
First, understand that basements are their own animal. You often have to work with concrete, deal with moisture, manage varying temperatures, and tackle oddly shaped spaces. So begin with the bones of the house, and make sure you’re starting strong.
Make sure you have a solid foundation on your house, and that moisture can’t get in. If you can smell mold, see obvious cracks, or have dampness anywhere inside, take care of that first. Otherwise, all of your hard work to finish your basement will be wasted!
As you begin installing, make sure to install a vapor barrier between the foundation and drywall. You can also offset the wall from the foundation using furring strips, which will help with moisture. Installing good insulation will keep your space snug and warm.
So before you start designing the best basement in Grand Rapids, make sure the space is ready for it.
2. Plan your Dream Space
Go wild! Imagine your ideal basement space, and what it will look like. Is it a sports-themed man cave? An area for crafting? An art studio? A business space? A TV room? Don’t limit yourself. Carefully consider what you want, and dream up different layouts.
Start with rough sketches, and try to think well into the future. If you’re making a playroom for your kids, understand that they may not be into Dora the Explorer 10 years from now. Clever uses of unusual spaces can add great character to a house. Think creatively, and have fun.
3. Check the Code
Check with your local municipality, and make sure you (or your builder) understand the building codes. This is especially important if you plan to run electricity or plumbing to the area. The last thing you want is unsafe or unsanctioned construction… that leads to massive headaches down the road.
4. Have Great Lighting
Basements usually have poor natural lighting. Most have few (if any) windows, and whatever is there is typically small. As you finish your basement, make your space feel warm and inviting.
Quality lights, dimmer switches, and recessed lighting can be great choices for a smaller space. It creates a classy look and saves a lot of space compared to most other options. If you choose to use a drop ceiling, can lights are also easy to install.
5. Choose the Right Floor, Under the Floor
Basement floors (especially in Grand Rapids) are cold and hard. Don’t fall into this trap! Installing a wood subfloor, or at least including an excellent carpet pad, will be crucial to having a comfortable space. If you love the idea of a tile floor, seriously consider good, thick rugs. There’s not much point in making a beautiful space if you hate standing in it. Make the floor feel good on your toes!
You can install nearly any ‘surface’ flooring type in your basement. While engineered wood typically works better than true hardwood (due to expansion and contraction), you can comfortably choose between carpet, tile, and wood floors.
6. Use Paint to Your Advantage
Most basements are quirky. Many have a weird layout, odd dimensions, or windows that feel out of place. Use your paint to accent its best features. Painting the ceiling a bright color will make the room feel larger, and using different colors on your your ceiling, trim, and walls will give it more definition.
If you want to focus on a certain area, consider an accent wall with a bright pop of color or subtle design. This can make the space uniquely yours, and help it feel like a very special place.
So dive in. Finish your basement, and enjoy having the best one in Grand Rapids!