A basement doesn’t have to be a dark, cobwebby storage space for your out-of-season holiday decorations. A modern basement finishing can transform the area into an attractive hangout space, a home gym, movie theater, or even a stylish wet bar! Revamping your basement into an eco-friendly new space is a great way to add value to your home. Use these tips to help you get started!
Basement Finishing Tips
If you’re in the market for a remodel, take a look at our ideas for a classy basement finishing that won’t send your carbon footprint skyrocketing.
Start with an Energy Audit
An energy audit gives you some starting information about how much energy your home currently uses and where the energy is being used up the most. This baseline will let you know which areas of your home, if any, are in need of an eco-friendly remodel.
Green Flooring
Some basement flooring options contain VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, that are a less eco-friendly option when released into the air. Durable flooring alternatives that are free of toxic VOCs are reclaimed wood, ceramic tile, bamboo, natural stone, cork-recycled linoleum, and natural fiber carpeting. These beautiful options are earthy and attractive. Add in a few throw rugs to retain the heat, and your basement is instantly cozier.
Earth-Friendly Insulation
Basements tend to be chilly, but insulation keeps heat in and cold out, so finally you can enjoy spending time in your basement (rather than popping downstairs a few times a year to grab random storage items). Unfortunately, some foam and fiberglass insulation contain ozone-damaging hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). If you’re looking for eco-friendly options, avoid such chemicals by choosing natural alternatives like sheep’s wool (flame resistant and easy to work with), cotton made from recycled blue jeans, recycled plastic, or cork.
Add an Antique Statement Piece
Before hitting the furniture stores, take stock of what you already have that you may be able to repurpose for your basement finishing. If you’re lucky, your local antique shop might have some interesting, one-of-a-kind pieces you can incorporate into an upscale look. It’s also fun to explore designs from the past.
Insulated Windows
We’ve already mentioned the importance of insulation in this article, but it’s a good message to drive home. Insulated windows prevent precious heat from escaping so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. With double or triple-pane options, high-quality windows can lower your energy bills and keep your basement warm.
Get Creative
There are so many earth-friendly ways to refresh a space. VOC-free paint can add a splash of color to the walls, transforming your basement. Low-light plants, or plants that can survive off of only fluorescent lighting, add life and an earthy decorative element. Low-voltage lighting fixtures brighten your space. Even low-cost beeswax candles offer a cozy ambience and a light honey scent.
Professional Basement Finishing
These eco-friendly basement finishing ideas can work to revitalize and greenify any space! Here at Total Home Remodeling, we can make your remodel ideas a reality. Contact us for inquiries about our basement finishing services. We love to hear your ideas!
