One of the biggest problems a homeowner can have is flooding in the basement. Some use the basement as an extra room while others use it for storage. When heavy rains come and flood it, it can cause a major headache, not to mention a lot of money and time to have the water in the basement removed. Frequent flooding can weaken the structure of the house and even cause health problems for those who are living there. A sump pump will automatically pump this water out and away...
Mold and mildew refer to tiny microscopic fungi that exist nearly everywhere. Fungi do not require light to survive, since they do not perform photosynthesis. Rather, they reproduce through microscopic spores. Mold and mildew often appear as brown, green or black spots, and usually cause a musty smell. Mold and mildew typically grow in damp locations, like basements and showers. Some common indoor molds include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus and Penicillium. Mold Health Effects Fungus causes respiratory symptoms in some people, including coughing and wheezing. Other symptoms of exposure can include eye...
No matter how well you clean, if the basement smells musty, the house seems unclean. Molds thrive in damp, dark places and may be the source of the problem. Often times they occur in places that are visited less frequently like roofs and basements, or they stars from the roof and then spread to the rest of the house. Molds thrive in warm, moist, or humid environments. A basement can be a perfect place for molds to grow. Molds are most likely to appear during warm damp months in...
Creating a basement home office can provide a comfortable working space that isn't constantly interrupted. Here's how to set one up properly. With the state of the economy, people are looking more and more into working at home. In fact, millions of people are now working from their homes and the numbers are rising as the people are cutting out the daily commute more and more. When working at home, it is important that people have a place at home where they can work comfortably and quietly. In the northern...
After a long day at work, it would be great to come home to a relaxing in home basement spa to get some serious relaxation in. But relaxation is hard when the spa turns into a burden for you and your family. The disadvantages of a basement spa can be a major deterrent and should be considered before doing a project of this magnitude. Extra Plumbing Costs Installing a spa does not have to be expensive, but in basements, the plumbing costs can be as much as the equipment for...
The basement represents an opportunity to use all the square footage in your home to make a game room or craft shop. Begin by framing the walls. How to Frame a Basement Wall If your home has a basement that's unfinished, why not turn it into an entertainment room, family hangout room, workout area, home office, basement spa or a wood shop. First, ensure that your basement is fully waterproofed and mold free. You must be sure that there's no water entering your basement through the floors or the walls. You...
Basement remodeling can make a home more comfortable, along with adding hundreds of usable square feet to a home. This is especially advantageous for families that need room to expand and do not have the money or yard room for an addition to their home. This home improvement project is more cost effective and easier than most home additions; an unfinished basement already has a floor, walls, and roof. Remodeling Ideas: Suggestions for Use The following are a few ideas for basement remodeling projects: Home Theater – is one of...
