If you’re thinking about remodeling your basement yourself, get ready to roll up your sleeves because you have your work cut out for you. While many homeowners love the idea of turning their basement into a fun-filled recreation room, man cave, or cozy den for the whole family, many of them don’t realize how much work and expertise goes into remodeling a basement. Learn about four common mistakes people tend to make when renovating underground and why you should avoid them.

1. Using Organic Building Materials in the Basement

Do you love the idea of putting wood columns or hardwood floors in your newly finished basement? You might want to think again. Using organic building materials underground, such as wood and fiberglass, is like putting the welcome mat out for toxic mold. Moisture comes with the territory when you’re renovating underground, and the cellulose in wood or fiberglass insulation can lead to the spread of mold. Stick with inorganic materials like concrete, mortar, and synthetic polymers. Basements are also prone to flooding and water damage, making synthetic options better suited for flooring

2. Not Having Insurance for Your Basement

Check your homeowner’s insurance policy before you start renovating and filling your basement with all kinds of valuable furniture and equipment. While flooding tends to be less of an issue in Canada, major rain storms can easily impact homes in low-lying regions or those next to a large body of water. Even flood insurance can run thin when it comes to basements, so you might want to double down on your flood insurance before the work begins. Otherwise a major storm surge or groundwater can wreak havoc on your remodeling plans. A flooded basement costs an average of $42,000 in major cities.

3. Not Having an Emergency Sump Pump

Water runs downwards, and in many cases, this means running straight down into your basement. That’s why you need to have a sump pump close by in case your newly finished basement starts flooding But, what happens if the power goes out? Your home will fill with water, ruining all that expensive furniture and equipment, and there won’t be anything you can do about it. Having an emergency sump pump that runs on batteries can take care of this issue. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for a flood, even if it’s in the middle of a blackout during one of Calgary’s downpours.

4. Not Soundproofing Your Basement

Regardless of what you plan on doing in your basement, don’t forget about all the noise that’s going to come from the floors above. Most basements are within earshot of all kinds of noisy equipment, including your home’s furnace or air conditioner, as well as heavy-duty appliances like your refrigerator or washer and dryer. Unless you want to hear a constant rumbling every time you sit down to watch a movie or hang out with your family, make sure you soundproof the ceiling. This is also important if you plan on blasting music or your favorite movie while other people are trying to enjoy some quiet time on the main floor.

The truth is, you shouldn’t remodel your basement yourself unless you have extensive construction experience. At Basement Builders, we’ve seen countless homeowners make critical mistakes throughout the remodeling process, which can lead to expensive repairs and damage down the line. Get the peace of mind in knowing that you’re working with the best industry. Call the remodeling professionals at Basement Builders and let’s work together to make your basement renovation plans a reality.