With the winter season in full effect, you’re probably looking for projects to do around your home. Finishing your basement can be the perfect project for the long, cold months. The National Association of Home Builders shows that over the past two decades, finished basements have become one of the most popular home remodeling projects. With added usable space, it’s easy to see why basement finishing is so desirable. So if you’re considering basement remodeling, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do…

Basement finishing is one of the biggest home remodeling projects. This is why it’s important to plan out the project as well as possible. You should begin by thinking about what kind of features and designs you want to be included in your new basement. A big open-concept design for a family room, a home theater installation, or a workspace are all great options. You should also research local residential contractors. Home remodeling projects like basement remodeling should be done mostly by professionals to ensure everything is done right. And lastly, you should focus on providing ample lighting in the basement. Since natural light may be minimal make sure there is plenty of lighting to make the space feel welcoming.

Don’t…

While home remodeling may seem pretty straight-forward, there is actually a lot of work that goes into these projects. One of the most important things to remember is to check building codes for your home. If you fail to meet building codes, you could not only end up in legal trouble, but your home may be unsafe. This is especially important with electrical work, which is why it’s best to bring in a professional. Additionally, you should never ignore signs of water or moisture in the basement. If you continue remodeling while ignoring signs of water, all of your hard work could be ruined. So make sure your basement is completely dry and water-proof before you begin any work. And lastly, don’t stress! If you hire a reputable contractor and take your time planning the project, you’ll have a beautiful new basement in no time.

Basement remodeling can add functional space and increase the resale value of your home too. So if you’re thinking about finishing your basement this winter, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind to ensure your project goes smoothly.