Basements are usually the most underrated space in our homes, with dampness and cracks taking over and making the space unfit for use. Basements or underground spaces remain underexposed to sunlight and air, which makes the space stinky and a breeding ground for microbes and mold. However, would you believe these basements could be renovated and remodeled into functional spaces? Well, that is true. To begin with, installing moisture-resistant paneling is one of the most effective ways of remodeling. 

A renovation project requires extreme precision and planning to meet aesthetic and functional requirements. However, by choosing the suitable materials and design layout, you can convert the damp and stinky basements into a visually appealing space. The urban space crisis has forced homeowners to utilize the basements for different activities. Investing in moisture-resistant wall panels for the interior paneling can enhance the efficiency of the space. Moreover, these panels can eliminate the chances of dampness and mold formation on the walls, ensuring a healthy and contamination-free environment. 

How to plan a basement remodel? 

Remodeling a basement is not a cakewalk and requires you to be extra cautious so you do not overlook anything while planning the space. Whether planning to remodel the basement for a relaxing space, a home gym, or a working space, you must indulge in thoughtful and careful planning. Let’s get started:

Evaluating the space: The first step toward remodeling the basement is to evaluate the existing space to understand what needs to be done and what requires your attention. Depending on the existing space, you will understand what elements you need to add to your space to renovate it into your dream space. 

To begin with, you need to eliminate the things you no longer want in the space. You can either throw them away or donate them and free the basement of the unwanted stuff. However, there are some items that you need to keep, like the heater/AC unit, water heater, electrical panel, etc. Additionally, you need to find a safer place to store these items during the renovation process to keep them in working condition. 

The beams and columns: Beams and columns are fixed items in your basement that cannot be moved or removed, so you must include them in your planning. Since the beams and columns support the structure’s weight, you need to find one way or another to include them in the remodeling design. However, certain design elements will help to work around the columns:

Solutions for Columns-

• You can box the columns to decorate them by incorporating trims and moldings. 
• Include the columns as part of the room’s design and mood.
• Create walls that include the columns in them. 

Solutions for Beams-

• You can use the beams’ bottom height to create a soffit height and use the soffit as visually appealing coffered ceilings.
• If the ceiling height permits, you can create a dropped bean pattern across the ceiling.
• Use the bottom height of the beam to adjust the ceiling to make the beams disappear.
• You can also create a wall to line up with the beam.

Designing a floor plan: Developing a floor plan is technically the most exciting and interesting step of remodeling the basement. While doing so, you need to address the stairwell and exterior walls and use the exterior walls as foundation walls to maximize the usable floor space. Likewise, you need to consider essential things like plumbing, electrical connections, etc., and the requirement of access panels when designing the walls. 

The next most important thing in the floor plan is the stairwell. Here are a few things you must answer when designing a stairwell. First, you must determine whether you want an open or an enclosed staircase. Next, you must find out what to do with the space under the stairs. You can create a closet in the space for storage and make intelligent use of the space.

Once the walls are done, it is time to step back and evaluate the space for the final interiors. However, it is recommended not to add any more walls to the space until very important, as it will further restrict and confine the space. You can utilize masking tape to create a layout for the interior design. However, the space’s interior will entirely depend on how you plan to use the space. 

Waterproofing the interior: As mentioned, a basement remains exposed to excessive moisture, and our neglectful attitude towards it results in a damp and stinky environment. So, it is important to invest in waterproofing the space to keep contamination and dampness at bay. One of the most feasible and practical choices for waterproofing the basement is installing moisture-resistant wall panels like PVC panels that are durable, versatile, customizable, and affordable. 

Some of the notable signs that indicate the need for urgent waterproofing in your basement space are:

• Cracks or peeling off of the walls, ceilings, or floors.
• There is a foul or moldy smell in the interior of the basement.
• Mold and mildew form on the walls or in the things stored in the basement. 
• Watermarks or damp patches on the walls. 

These signs in your basement indicate an unhealthy and unhygienic space that needs waterproofing. PVC paneling is one of the most reliable solutions as it is made from virgin vinyl and is exceptionally resistant to moisture, mold, and impacts. 

Get the most of your renovated basement by choosing Duramax PVC panels

In the urban space crisis, utilizing the basement is one of the smartest and most cost-effective moves for additional space. Thoughtful planning and efficient design can help you remodel your basement into a functional space that you can use for different purposes. 

However, to renovate your basement, you must look for moisture-resistant paneling solutions for waterproofing. Check out the high-quality PVC panels from Duramax, which have a shelf life of 100 years. Besides, the smooth and reflective surface of these panels helps enhance the lights’ efficiency and make the space energy-efficient. Ask for a free sample.