Best Modifications When Finishing Your Basement

We don’t like to admit it, but sometimes with age comes the need to adapt to new circumstances. This is especially important for homeowners who want to enjoy a renovated basement. But there are ways to remain independent, ways that can allow us to enjoy the comforts of our home without being limited by our age-related developments. Whether you’re planning to turn your basement into a movie entertainment center, a large bedroom, or whatever you desire, it all requires one other thing: safety modifications. Here are some of the best modifications you can do for finishing your basement!

Preparing Space for Medical Conditions

Whether you need to make room for the passage of a wheelchair, or you want to be able to easily move a medical bed, consider making space in your finished basement project.

If doors are involved, consider using double doors to create that extra space. This can be useful even if you don’t have medical equipment that may need to be moved—it will make it easier for you to move furniture or equipment, such as a new flatscreen TV for your renovated basement.

Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Basement

Whether it’s for wheelchair considerations or for reducing fall risks, choosing the right kind of flooring can make all the difference in your finished basement. Consider low-pile carpeting—it not only allows wheelchairs and other mobility-assistance devices to move easier, but it will also reduce fall risk. Hard floorings like hardwood and tile can present higher fall risks—they should be avoided.

A Stairway to Safety and Comfort

Your basement stairs are just as important when it comes to preparing your finished basement. Non-slip treads should be installed to make the stairs safer.

Consider finding a specialist to help install a stairlift if possible.

It is also recommended to change the stairway lighting with better options such as smart lights.

Lighten Things Up!

From painting the walls with brighter colors to improving the lighting of the basement, these measures can both brighten your daily mood and provide less strain if your eyes have low vision.

Light switches should be equipped with wide rocker switches and dimmer switches—these make for easier operation of the basement lights.

For the lighting in the basement, consider having those light sources tucked into recesses so that they do not create as much direct glare. This will help prevent eye strain while still providing that needed extra lighting.

Take a Break

Creating designated break areas both in the basement and the basement stairway will give you the means to stop and take a breather when needed.

Modifications for Your Basement Bathroom

Your basement bathroom will need modifications as well. Grab bars should be located near both the toilet as well as the bath/shower. Lever-style faucets for the sink and shower would be ideal, especially if arthritis is a concern. Check and make sure the bathroom counters are also installed at a height that’s easy to access and use.

Protecting Your Finished Basement with Basement Waterproofing

While planning your basement modifications, there is one other measure that you will want to consider: basement waterproofing. Water in the basement is a common problem that happens in many homes. Whether it’s from leaky plumbing or from groundwater seeping through a crack in your foundation, it can lead to problems like wet basement carpet, mold, and even pests like termites.

In a renovated basement, water in the basement can lead to mold-infested drywall and carpet, and wood rots in your basement’s wooden supports. Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, agitate asthma symptoms, and cause illness in those with weakened immune systems.

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