Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

When installing new carpet, start by taking accurate measurements of the room. Measure the length and width of the room. Multiply these measurements together to find the square footage.

Carpet is measured in square yards. One square yard is 9 square feet. To convert square feet to square yards, divide the square footage by 9. Example: 90 square feet/9 = 10 square yards

If the room isnt a perfect rectangle, measure the room's square footage in sections. Then, add them together to find the total square footage. This guide covers how to put carpet down in a room thats square or rectangular.

Once you have measured your room, order the carpet. Order 10 to 20 percent more carpet than you need to be sure you have more than enough to cover the floor. You'll also need to get tools and flooring supplies, like tack strips, adhesives and edging, for your carpet installation project.

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How to Install Carpet - The Home Depot

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Top 10 Best Carpet Installation in Indianapolis, IN | Angi

Apartment building destroyed after fire in Southeast Fresno  KMPH Fox 26

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Apartment building destroyed after fire in Southeast Fresno - KMPH Fox 26

Regular maintenance will make your gutters last longer. At some point, they will need to be repaired or replaced to help protect your home from water damage. Here are a few signs that will help you determine if your gutters need to be repaired or replaced.

Cracks or splits

Even small cracks will grow, allowing water to seep into the fascia boards behind the gutters, the shingles above the gutter and the foundation below. Replace any split or crack sections of gutter.

Paint damage and rust

The paint on your gutters is weather resistant. Peeling paint or rust indicates that water is present on the surface on a continuous basis. Look for clogs and remove debris to get the water flowing. Replace or touch up the paint on the damaged section of the gutter.

Pools of water and mold

If you see standing water or mildew near the foundation, it can indicate that the gutters are clogged or there could be a defect in the gutter system. Remove the clog. If the problem persists, replace that section of gutter and downspout.

Water damage or water marks

Inspect directly beneath the gutters on a dry, sunny day for any evidence of water damage. Water damage underneath gutters can indicate that they are leaking or overflowing with water. Look for possible blockages in the area. If there are none, this indicates that the section has a crack or a leak which will need to be repaired or replaced.

Sagging gutters

Gutter sag is a definite sign that its time to replace gutters. Gutters should never sag or pull away from the house. Sagging gutters means that it is no longer draining properly and needs to be replaced. This may be a good time to look into upgrading your old ones with gutter guards or screens or with seamless gutters.

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How to Clean Gutters - The Home Depot

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Of all the necessary evils that make up a comprehensive fall yard maintenance routine, cleaning the gutters may be the most dreaded of all. Tedious though this task is, homeowners are wise not to neglect it. Properly functioning gutters, after all, ensure that storm water does not find its way indoors.

Learning how to clean gutters isnt difficult and with proper precautions in place, is safe. There is a variety of ways to get those leaves out of the gutters before they clog and lead to gutter damage, and theres no one best way for every homeowner. Some folks dont like using power washers, and others dont want their feet to leave the ground in the process. The best way to clean gutters is to use a safe, effective method youre comfortable with.

Gutters serve the vital purpose of collecting the rain that falls on the roof and diverting it through downspouts away from the homes foundation. Without gutters, water that falls near the foundation could leaks through windows, or seep into a basement or crawlspace.

Rain gutters typically require very little upkeep to function well, other than keeping them free of debris. Gutters that are filled with leaves can lead to clogged downspouts, which cause water to spill out over the top of the gutter channel and fall to the ground below. Worse, winters melt and freeze cycles can cause snow on the roof to melt into the gutter and freeze there. These ice-filled gutters are sometimes so heavy that they detach from the roof.

RELATED: How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams

Teetering on a telescoping ladder while trying to scoop leaves out of a gutter isnt the safest way to get the job done. The good news is that there are several gutter-cleaning tools that allow homeowners to clean the debris while keeping both feet on the ground.

If you have to climb a ladder clean the gutters, dont use a stepladder, which is prone to tipping if you get off balance. Instead, use a sturdy extension ladder and have a helper stand at the base to stabilize the ladder.

For all homes over a single story in height, its best to hire a gutter-cleaning service to do the work for you. These companies have the proper equipment to access high gutters safely. Dont attempt climbing on your roof to clean guttersits not worth the risk.

RELATED: What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Homes Rain Gutters

Cleaning gutters from the ground is effective and is by far the safest gutter cleaning method. You will need to proceed slowly and systematically because you cant really see what youre doing, and yes, it will probably take you a little longer than it would if you were standing on a ladder. The most common ways to clean gutters from the ground require either a garden hose or a shop-type wet/dry vacuum, plus a couple of handy attachments. Here are the two best gutter-cleaning techniques for those who prefer to work with their feet planted firmly on the ground.

As long as they are not thoroughly clogged, its relatively easy to clean your gutters from the ground using a garden hose equipped with an attachment such as the GutterMaster Telescopic Water Fed Pole, or another such water-fed tube with a curved end that can be aimed inside the gutter. Start at the end nearest the downspout, spray out the entire channel length, and then work your way back to the downspout. Water, leaves, and small twigs are likely to spray over the sides of the gutter, so dress appropriately.

RELATED: Are Gutters Actually Necessary?

Another way to remove debris from your gutters is to use a wet/dry vacuum equipped with the hoses and curved attachments you need to reach the obstructed gutters from ground level. Home improvement stores and online retailers carry these gutter-cleaning kits (one to consider is the Craftsman Gutter Cleaning Kit for Shop Vacuums). Once youve removed most of the debris from the gutters, flush the gutters and downspout with water from a garden hose.

Climbing on a ladder to clean the gutters isnt as safe as cleaning them from the ground since theres always a risk of falling. To reduce this risk, its essential to use the right ladder. Avoid using a step ladder, which can tip over.

A safer bet is to use a sturdy extension ladder that has been fitted with stabilizer arms. These arms, such as the Werner True Grip Stabilizer, brace the ladder against the siding and keep it from slipping to the side. Its also always a good idea to have an assistant on the ground who can hold the ladder, and hand up the tools as you need them. Before you climb up high and get ready to clean, decide which of the following methods best suits your situation.

RELATED: Never Make These 13 Mistakes With a Ladder

Many leaf blowers come with a nozzle attachment designed to release a powerful air stream, and its perfect for blasting leaves and twigs out of the gutter. Position your ladder so that you can work from one end of the channel to the other, blowing out obstructions as you go. Block the downspout first with a rag or old towel to keep from blowing leaves into it. When youre done with the blower, flush out any lingering leaves or twigs with a hose.

Has it been a while since you last cleaned your gutters? If it has, be ready for a layer of dirt and debris that has probably built up in the meanwhile. Blast it away with the fine-spray nozzle of your power washer. (This type of cleaning can get messy: You may have to rinse the roof and siding afterward.) For clogged gutters and downspouts, in particular, theres no better recourse than a pressure washer. Simply point the nozzle down the hole and rinse the shaft until water can run freely through it.

RELATED: How to Pressure Wash a House

To clean gutters manually, youll need a ladder, bucket, gutter scoop (or garden trowel), and heavy-duty work gloves. Remove leaves and debris by the handful, depositing what you remove into the bucket. When youre done, flush the gutters and downspout with water until you are certain both are clear and functioning correctly. Tip: If your downspouts are clogged and you dont have a power washer, try busting through the obstruction with a plumbers snake, then rinse with a hose.

An ounce of gutter-clogging prevention saves a lot of time and goes a long way toward keeping gutters clean and free from debris. To reduce the frequency of cleaning guttersor keep from having to do it altogetherconsider installing a screen like the Raptor Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard. It allows water to drain through the screen while blocking leaves and twigs.

Other types of gutter guards, such as the LeafGuard gutter system, direct running water into the gutter but keep leaves and debris out. This type of system requires professional installation and is extruded on-site to fit the length of the roof edge so there are no splices in the guttering. A seamless run of gutter means little to no leaking and dripping.

Though weve outlined various methods for cleaning gutters, you may still have some questions about the process. The following frequently asked questions may clarify certain points about this outdoor chore.

Once per year is usually sufficient, after leaves fall in autumn. This is when gutters are full of leaves that should be removed before winter.

The best gutter cleaner depends on the amount of leaves that accumulate and how easy it is to access the gutter. If youre cleaning from a ladder, a scoop is handy. If you prefer to clean the gutter while remaining firmly on the ground, a telescoping wand is a better choice.

It isnt safe. While some professional gutter cleaners may walk on the roof, the average homeowner shouldnt try it. Follow some of the methods listed above for safer gutter cleaning.

Hate cleaning your gutters?

Hire a pro to do the dirty work for you. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from gutter experts today.

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How to Clean Gutters: The 5 Best Ways to Get the Job Done - Bob Vila

The Troy Lighting collection at Lighting New York brings exceptional design and high-quality craftsmanship to your home. Browse this collection for indoor and outdoor options in a wide range of styles, materials and finishes that add character and charm to your everyday spaces.

Indoor Lighting Options

Find a wide selection of indoor chandeliers, pendants, island lights, bathroom vanity lights, sconces, and flush and semi-flush mount ceiling lights in our Troy Lighting collection. Styles cover a broad range from rustic to contemporary, vintage-inspired to modern, traditional to transitional. Shop a variety of materials, finishes and colors to suit your tastes with nature-inspired details, unique designs and surprising color combinations adding interest. A selection of table and floor lamps rounds out this collection.

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Enhance your outdoor living spaces with high-quality lighting from this collection. Browse outdoor chandeliers and pendants with stately character, post lights with a modern update on traditional style, wall sconces that range from historic to sleekly contemporary, and outdoor ceiling lights with vintage, nautical or traditional appeal.

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The Right Lights the First Time at Lighting New York

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Troy Lighting, Indoor, Outdoor - Lighting New York

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With the high cost of new construction, some homeowners are looking to their basements for additional living space. While the average cost of basement remodeling is about $21,541 nationwide, that figure varies widely depending on the quality of the materials used and the type of remodeling.

Still, finishing a basement is often a much more affordable way of expanding a homes living space than building a new addition to the house because the floors and walls are already in place. While some basement remodeling projects are in the DIY realm, many require the services of licensed contractors, and the final basement remodel cost will typically range from $30 to $75 per square foot.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

Many use the words remodel and renovate interchangeably. Still, remodeling typically involves changing the spaces layout or adding or replacing finish materials (installing new tile flooring, painting the walls, or replacing the panels in a drop ceiling). Remodeling is often a part of a basement makeover. Remodeling can also mean changing the purpose of the space, such as installing a kitchen in the basement, which is among the more pricey projects and could run as much as $30,000.

Renovation involves making some type of repairs. The most common basement renovation projects are the restorations necessary after a house suffers flood or fire damage. Renovating to correct water damage can run $1,200 to $5,100, while basement renovation cost after a fire can run anywhere from $3,000 to $33,000 just to repair smoke damage. Renovating doesnt change the spaces purpose; instead, it usually restores the area to like-new condition.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

The overall cost of a basement remodel averages $12,232 to $33,173, yet it can be as little as $4,000 on the low end and as much as $50,000 on the high end. Why so much price variation? The answer lies in the unique properties of basements, what condition theyre currently in, and the going rate of labor in the community.

Two of the main factors determining the cost to finish basement spaces are the basements size and current condition. A partial basement remodel of an area less than 700 square feet could run from $9,000 to $52,500, while the complete remodel of a basement with 4,000 square feet could top out around $300,000. A basement with leaks or moisture problems will cost more to remodel since waterproofing should be done first and could run as much as $7,000.

No two houses are alike, so no two basements are alike. This means that different subcontractors are necessary for various remodels. Hiring a designer could add $2,000 to $13,000 to the basement remodel cost, while a licensed electrician will typically charge between $500 and $2,500 to wire the basement. A plumbing subcontractor will typically charge between $400 and $1,800 to install new bathroom fixtures.

If the remodeling project includes adding walls and installing plumbing or wiring, the local building authority may require a permit before starting the project. Permit and inspection fees vary from community to community and may be a percentage of the projects estimated cost or a flat fee. Typical permit fees range from $100 to $2,000 or more, and the contractor will usually pull the permit and then include the cost in their charges.

The average cost to finish a basement depends on multiple factors. For example, when calculating an accurate estimate, a contractor must determine whether repairs should be done first and whether moisture issues are a concern.

If the basement has mold or water damage, cleanup could add anywhere from $1,200 to $5,100 to the overall cost of the basement remodel. If professional mold remediation is necessary and wallboard and flooring have to be replaced, the price could start around $10,000 and go up from there. On the flip side, a simple flooring replacement and a new coat of paint could cost less than $3,000.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

The difference between above-grade walls and basement walls is that basement walls directly contact the soil. This makes basements prone to moisture problems and leaking. Before finishing a basement, any moisture problems should be addressed. Waterproofing a basement will add an estimated $2,000 to $7,000 to the bill.

When it comes to basements, finishing means to transform the basement (no matter what shape its currently in) into a living space thats similar in quality to the above-ground living spaces. The cost to finish basement living spaces will vary based on all the factors covered, but a general estimate is between $30 and $75 per square foot.

Incorporating new rooms into a basement is standard for many remodeling projects. The cost will vary by the type of room and the quality of the materials and fixtures. Adding a bathroom ranges from $6,600 to $16,500, while adding a master suite can run as much as $25,000, especially if egress (escape) windows have to be installed. Other popular basement remodel projects include:

For many, the most significant benefit of finishing a basement is the increased family living space that can alleviate crowding on the main floors. A finished basement is also a selling point, and it makes a home more energy efficient as well.

Most remodeling projects are expensive, and remodeling a basement is no exception. Remodeling Magazine estimates that a basement remodels return on investment (ROI) averages about 70 percent. So, remodel with the intent of enjoying the space, not just for resale purposes.

A basement remodeling project offers the homeowner a range of living solutions. A basement with a separate entrance can become a rental apartment or provide additional family space. The project can include adding new bedrooms, a playroom, a recreation area with a bathroom, or a craft room. The basement can be one of the most versatile spaces in the home.

Finishing a basement often improves a homes energy efficiency. During remodeling, the basement is often insulateda project that typically adds around $500 to $1,500, depending on the size of the basement and the type of insulation. This reduces heat transfer through the main floor and, as a bonus, also reduces drafts. The result is a more energy-efficient house.

Homeowners can save a substantial amount of money by tackling remodeling projects, but the key is in knowing when to attempt DIY basement finishing and when its better left to the pros. A general rule is to call licensed professionals for new wiring projects. Electricians charge between $50 to $100 per hour for their services, and, in some communities, homeowners are not permitted to do their own electrical wiring.

While plumbing is less dangerous than wiring, it requires working knowledge of making plumbing connections, and faulty plumbing can leak, leading to significant water damage down the road.Some DIY tasks a homeowner can take on include clearing away trash, painting, and sometimes installing flooring.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

When DIY-ing some or all of a basement remodeling project isnt feasible, homeowners may still be able to save some money. Keep in mind that many costs are negotiable, and by compromising on materials, a basement remodel doesnt have to break the bank. The following tips can save money without sacrificing overall quality or the ability to enjoy the basement.

The oft-recommended advice is to get bids from a minimum of three contractors before choosing one to do the remodeling. While thats sage advice, ask the following questions to ensure the best contractor is selected for the job.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

Basement remodeling and renovating are expensive, but theyre investments in the home when done tastefully and with good workmanship. For those thinking about a basement remodeling project, some questions are likely.

On average, basement remodeling costs $30 to $75 per square foot, so the cost to remodel a 1,000-square-foot basement would range from $30,000 to $75,000, depending on the material and fixture costs.

At an average of $30 to $75 per square foot, remodeling a 1,200-square-foot basement would cost between $36,000 and $90,000.

Do plenty of research before starting to ensure youre getting what you want at a price you can afford. Because a basement remodel is an investment in the home, your lender may give you a home equity loan to pay for the project, and you can pay the loan back in installments.

The resale value of a house depends on many factors. In general, homeowners can recoup 70 percent of the cost of a basement remodel when they sell. For example, if the current house is valued at $250,000 and the homeowner spends $50,000 on the basement remodel, it would potentially increase the houses value by 70 percent of $50,000, which is $35,000. That would boost the homes valuewhen the project is completeto $285,000.

Adding bathrooms, home theaters, and wet bars are among the most expensive basement remodeling projects. Bathrooms cost an average of $6,000 to $15,000, and wet bars range from about $6,000 to $22,500. Home theaters can run as much as $300 per square foot.

Remodeling your basement?

Find local basement remodeling contractors in your area and get free, no-commitment estimates for your project today.

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How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? (2023) - Bob Vila

Basement stairs need protection from foot traffic and moisture. When deciding how to finish your basement stairs, you've got plenty of great options.

The quality of a basement stairway usually matches the quality of the basement itself. An unfinished basement used primarily for storage likely has a straight, steep stairway with open treads, or perhaps a spiral staircase. A finished basement usually features a more sophisticated staircase with closed treads, and maybe even a landing.

A basement staircase is almost always more functional than decorative. That means its typically made from wood or plywood, without ornate details or extra-long treads. Though its basic, it still needs to be finished to avoid ending up stained, slippery and bug-infested, like the one I rebuilt for my neighbor several years ago.

The climate in a typical basement eliminates one finishing option common for upper-story staircases natural fiber carpet. But you can use synthetic carpet.

Most people will choose a paintable finish, however, because its easy and inexpensive. Paint or a clear finish can also look great, but both are slippery. For safetys sake, its worth it to put extra energy into addressing this issue.

When youre pondering your basement staircase finishing project, think about the following:

If you only use your unfinished basement occasionally, you might be tempted to leave the staircase unfinished. You might even get away with it. But if youre down there with any regularity, finishing the staircase is a must to protect it from foot traffic, and the improvement in appearance is a bonus.

If youre planning to finish your basement stairway, here are some things to think about:

For a wooden basement staircase, painting is your best finishing option. Use a good quality porch and floor enamel for the treads and risers and acrylic enamel for the railings.

Painting is DIY-friendly, color choices give you design flexibility, and paint provides good resistance to moisture, mold and foot traffic. When the paint wears out or you get tired of the color, simply repaint. If the treads or railing are oak or fir, two or three coats of clear polyurethane offer good protection and highlight the natural wood tones.

Other finishing techniques arent quite as easy, but most are still DIY-friendly:

The possibilities for basement stairways are as varied as the people who use them. Here are a few examples:

The treads are painted light gray to match the tile on the basement floor, and the railing coated with a clear finish to bring out the natural wood element.

Protected by a wall on both sides, this staircase features the same carpet as the basement floor, providing a comfy trip between floors for bare feet.

No need for anything fancy for this utility basement. All parts of the staircase are painted to protect the wood from moisture.

Hardwood on basement stairs? Why not? Just make sure you use an engineered product rated for below-grade installations.

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What To Know About Finishing Basement Stairs

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Need a few ideas to inspire your upcoming basement remodel? Weve put together eight of our favorites (with the caveat that when it comes to designing your dream basement, your options are truly limitless).

NOTE:The beginning half of 2021 has seen an unprecedented labor shortage as a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. In conjunctionwith this, demand for materials and construction jobs has skyrocketed. As a result, material prices may be higher than those reported in this article, and lead times may be longer than usual for both labor and materials.

Maybe you are dreaming of creating your own home fitness studio, complete with a ballet barre, a rowing machine and a complete set of free weights. Or, maybe you need an extra bedroom or a home office. No matter what, avoid dark colors and fixtures, says Kirsten Gable, a designer with Anthony Wilder Design/Build Inc., in Cable John, Maryland.

This is key when you are designing a basement, Gable says. Nobody wants to go into a space that feels like a dungeon.

Fortunately, the light-and-bright feel isnt hard to achieveeven in a space that was previously adorned with dark paneling on the walls and few, if any, sources of natural light.

All you have to do is select lighter paint colors, lighter flooring (Pro tip: Never use wood flooring in a basement due to its propensity to warp) and plenty of, well, lighting. This could be in the form of strategically placed recessed lighting, decorative lamps or even windows (if the structure allows for windows).

Do you already have a media room or sufficient home office space upstairs? If so, no need to be redundant in your remodeled basement. This is your chance to add something else to your home that doesnt already exist.

You arent going to spend time in your basement if you have it elsewhere, says Gable.

If you are not sure what exactly this new space is, make a list of what might be missing. A place for out-of-town guests to stay? A playroom? A game room? The project is a blank space, so you can take it in any direction you like.

OK, but how many of us truly have enough dedicated office space these days? A basement is a perfect place for a quiet work area because it is most likely removed from the homes primary activity zones (meaning you can escape from all the noise and dive into that big work project).

This is also your chance to really home in on your preferences when it comes to the sort of workspace that fosters your own brand of productivity. Quirky? Corporate chic? Minimalist? It is up to you.

Soon, it will once again be feasible for friends and family to come over for more than just a socially distanced driveway visittheyll actually be able to spend the weekend. If you would rather offer accommodations more appealing than the living room floor or your twins bunk beds, adding a guest room to your basement will accomplish the goal.

If you have the space, you might even consider making it a guest suitecomplete with a private bathroom and all the little extras that will truly make them feel at home throughout their stay.

Tired of exercising in the garage (especially in extreme temperatures)? Your soon-to-be-remodeled basement is just begging you to turn at least a small section of it into a home workout studio.

All your equipment will be tucked away in its very own space (no more tripping over the treadmill in the middle of your bedroom), and you wont have to worry so much about damaging that beautiful wood floor with your free weights.

The ground level is much more accommodating to the impact, and you can also install flooring that is engineered specifically for home gyms (without worrying that it will clash with any of your home dcor).

The mere existence of a basement doesnt necessarily mean you have the luxury of adding guest suites and workout rooms thoughmaybe your upstairs is smaller and you need the space downstairs for actual living?

If this sounds like you, you can easily transform your basement into a versatile living space, with a play/school area for kids, a family gathering space (a couch and a coffee table for playing board games will accomplish this), some extra storage and maybe even a cozy reading nook.

The key with this type of design, says Gable, is to create a cohesive look while also providing some separation between the various areas (room dividers, tall furniture or a partial wall will all do the trick).

Are you a wine connoisseur, or a collector of vintage teacups? Basements often provide the perfect backdrop to store or display your favorite things, especially if the upper level of your home lacks the space needed. You can dedicate a certain corner or design a walk-in/temperature-controlled room, depending on the size and content of your collection.

Kitchen tables often double as sewing or craft stations, and living rooms are used for everything from practicing music to drawing to folding origami.

If you would like to reclaim your kitchen table for actual dining, or if the concept of sitting in your living room watching Netflix without hearing the sound of your 10-year-olds squeaky violin, the time to turn your basement into a music, craft or hobby room is now.

These ideas just the very tip of the icebergthe options for your basement remodel are vast, Gable says. The main thing to do when creating your basement renovation plan is to determine what you truly need to make your basement work for you and your other household members.

You can create a really cool basement, but if it doesnt function for (you) on a day-to-day basis (you) are never going to go down there, she adds.

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Originally posted here:
Basement Remodel Ideas You Should Try Forbes Home

Finishing a basement is an ideal way to add extra living space to your home. You dont need to build out or build up to create more usable square footage. You can work with your existing footprint and remodel a dark, cluttered basement which is probably only being used for storage or as a makeshift laundry room and turn it into a finished room or rooms for a variety of uses. Or, maybe, you already have a finished basement, but it is dated and needs some freshening up or reconfiguration to work better for your needs. Whichever type basement you have, there is always room for improvement through a remodel.

Many homeowners look at their basements and see a daunting renovation task. We see a basement as a blank slate. The potential for new living space is amazing. Walls can be built to create multiple rooms and storage areas, or can be moved to enable the space to better fit your wish list.

The lowest level of your home can provide ample space for:

Original post:
Basement Remodeling Ideas | Before and After Photos