Often, homeowners think basements should look like dark, damp dungeons.
But you don’t have to waste all that space.
You can utilize your basement fully by completing a basement finishing project. Before you start the project, you’ll need to consider your heating and air conditioning needs. Basements often house HVAC components such as furnaces and air handlers. If you plan to finish your basement, you need to think about these things. It’s a good idea to hide these components for aesthetic reasons while keeping them easily accessible for repairs and maintenance. You should also work with your contractor to ensure adequate ventilation. This is because you’ll be creating a rather confined space for your gas furnace as well as other gas appliances. Local building codes may stipulate that air conditioning and heating components be accessible for future inspections. Building codes can vary. That’s why you need to decide what you can and cannot do right away. For your own health and safety, you may have to install a mechanical ventilation system if no windows provide natural ventilation. It’s likely that unfinished basements lack ductwork since they’re not typically conditioned. It may be necessary to provide a detailed plan showing equipment locations. If you plan to expand your current heating and cooling systems, such as installing a new heat pump or furnace, your local municipality may also require a permit. If you wish to cool or heat your home, you will need the assistance of a qualified heating and air conditioning contractor. Make sure to include the additional space you will gain after finishing your basement. They will do this by performing a load calculation to determine the BTUs needed to heat and cool your home. You will also need to determine if your existing HVAC system will function after finishing your basement. When you finish the project, you’ll add significant floor space. In case your current system proves inadequate, decide whether to upgrade it or simply add a secondary system. Make sure you cover all your bases by consulting your technician.