Health and Safety Checklist for Basement Renovation

Health and Safety Checklist for Basement Renovation

Have you been wondering how you can give your basement a new purpose? Perhaps you are planning to transform it into a more functional and aesthetically pleasing room. Now that you have more time for home improvement projects because of the community quarantine and travel restrictions, you can finally turn your vision into reality.

But before you start your basement transformation project, you need to consider one important thing: safety. You must ensure that the project will be completed safely and on time. You also need to make sure the newly renovated basement will be safe for you and your family, or whoever will use it.

Here’s a checklist of the important things you need to consider when converting your basement:

Proper ventilation is key

Because your basement is in the lower part of the house, chances are it’s either too cold or too hot there. Proper ventilation is important to have a comfortable stay in the room. This is especially true if you are converting your basement into an extra bedroom. There should be enough supply of oxygen and the carbon dioxide should be able to escape from the room. That’s where a window well comes in.

If you plan to use your basement as a living space, you should consider adding a window. A window well allows the air to circulate inside the basement. But you need to secure it with a high-quality window well cover so that you can prevent accidental falls. The cover will also protect your basement window against the elements, acting like a storm door and keeping the window well from collapsing.

Keep excess moisture and humidity away

airconditionerMold thrives in moist and humid environments. To prevent mold infestation in your newly transformed basement, be sure to keep the humidity level at bay. You can invest in a dehumidifier or install an exhaust fan or an HVAC system. Make sure there is proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of moisture or water vapor in the air. Damp or humid indoor air can also cause health problems.

Mind the plumbing system

Most houses have plumbing pipes located in the basement. If your home is one of them, you need to maintain those pipes regularly to prevent leaks that can cause flooding and water damage in your basement. Installing a ceiling to serve as a cover for the overhead pipes is a good option. If you notice signs of plumbing problems in your basement, contact a reputable plumber right away. Having an experienced plumber on-site during the renovation period is also ideal.

Observe electrical safety

Electrical connections in the basement should be secure and properly installed. Ask your contractor to make sure the electrical system is safe from short circuits and other problems that can cause electrocution or a fire breakout. This will keep you and your family away from danger.

Safety is a priority in every home construction and improvement project. Keep these things in mind if you are planning to convert your basement into something more useful. You won’t regret it.

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