5 Things To Consider Before Tackling A Basement Remodel, According To Builders

Add value to your basement with these tips.

When remodeling a basement, there are a few things to keep in mind that will increase the value of your home, especially when turning an unfinished basement into a finished one. “As a custom home builder, I see remodeling as an opportunity to correct problems that are deeper than cosmetic upgrades like high humidity and natural lighting," says residential building expert Will King of High Cotton Homes.

Three of the most important items to address are lighting, dehumidification, and the overall comfort of the space. “Whether you are adding bedrooms, an entertainment space, or craft room, you want to make sure that at the end, you have created a comfortable space that truly gives you more valuable square footage,” says King. While these upgrades might not be as visually rewarding as a new couch or built-in bar, their value add will be well worth the investment.

Meet The Experts

• Will King is a licensed residential home builder, Southern Living Custom Builder Program member, and President of High Cotton Homes in Florence, Alabama

• Gabe Chatham is a long time Southern Living Custom Builder Program member, builder and real estate expert, and Vice-President of Chathambilt Homes in Alpharetta, Georgia

Bring Light In

For Southern homes not built on a grade that allows for natural light and exterior access, basements can easily be dark and damp. “If you have a basement with poor lighting and moisture problems, it is going to be a deterrent no matter what you create in the finished space," says King. "People enjoy bright and open spaces and most basements lack natural light, so while things are under construction, there’s no better time to wire for additional lighting.” The expert suggests adding disc lights, overhead lights, and more outlets for lamps to brighten up the space during your remodel process.

If your basement has a window or sliding door, be sure not to block that light flow. “Allowing as much natural light to shine from the daylight portion of the basement is important so that you don’t feel like you’re in a cave,” adds custom home builder Gabe Chatham of Chathambilt Homes.

Related: 14 Finished Basement Ideas That Are Anything But Dark

Combat Humidity

Whether for personal comfort or avoiding mold, it’s important to have humidity control. “People also want to hang out in spaces that are comfortable, and humidity plays a big role in how the environment feels,” explains King. He suggests a whole home dehumidifier to help condition the basement and keep the area dry year-round—even in the extra humid summer months in the South. “If you lack head room but need to add HVAC, consider using mini split heat pumps,” he adds.

Related: HVAC Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know, According To Professionals

Add Insulation

Think about insulation for more than just temperature control, it also helps with isolating sound. “We soundproof the ceiling with cellulose insulation or rock wool so that the party can still be going downstairs while others can go to sleep on the upper floor,” says Chatham. “We often need to frame out the walls against a concrete foundation and isolate that space when we finish a basement.”

Consider Water-Resistant Flooring

Don't let your basement floor get ruined by wet feet or unexpected flooding. "If you have a pool, make sure to use waterproof flooring between the exterior access and the bathroom,” suggests Chatham, who recommends tile or luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP).

Check Permit Requirements

Depending on the scope of your remodel, you might need a proper permit. “Most any municipality will require a permit although there are plenty of cases where permits aren’t needed for a basement,” says Chatham.

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