Not only does the Labor Day weekend signal a little time off work, but it also indicates a close to the summer season, which means it’s time to get ready for colder weather Chantilly residents.
So get in the spirit of the end of summer and start planning for the Fall and Winter seasons by creating a cozy hideaway that your family can retreat to once the outdoors become too chilly.
One of the best places to create this snug space is to mimic hibernating animals and go under ground — to the basement.
Whether your lowest level needs a facelift or is completely unfinished, September is the perfect time to make a game plan and get started on remodeling your basement.
Step 1 – Obtain A Permit
Before you can just slap up insulation and drywall, you need to make sure your basement is even fit to dwell in.
Check with your area to ensure there aren’t any permits you need to obtain and that the space is up to code. If you don’t do it right, then this update could haunt you when it comes time to sell.
Step 2 – Get The Air Flowing
You’ll want this space to be warm in winter and cool in the summer. Contact a contractor to see if getting air to this lower level will be as easy as tapping into your current HVAC system and whether or not your existing appliance can handle the extra space.
Step 3 – Design And Frame
Now comes the fun part. Decide what you want down there! A bedroom or two, a man cave, or TV room; a blank slate provides all sorts of exciting options. Once you’ve got a plan, start framing it out.
Step 4 – Add Emergency Exits
This underground level needs exit points that go directly outside. So, install a back door or windows that someone could fit through in case of emergency. If there are bedrooms in the design, they also each need their own exit point.
Step 5 – Insulate And Drywall
While the ground surrounding your home provides some insulation, you’ll want to properly insulate around the perimeter and in between rooms to provide a noise barrier. Then put up the drywall.
Step 6 – Install Flooring
Pick out your flooring, such as wood, tile, carpet or vinyl. It mostly depends on what type of rooms you’re planning to create. Make sure your floors are level before you lay anything down. It’s especially common to find slanted floors in older homes.
Step 7 – Paint And Decorate
You’re almost finished! Pick out your paint colors, move in your furniture and enjoy your new cozy hideaway. Colder weather will be here before you know it, so use this month to get this project started.
And if you are preparing your home to sell, please know that The Kathy O’Neal Team is here for you!
Please feel free to contact us anytime! We have a section devoted to seller strategies on our website that may prove helpful!
