If the first few items on your honey-do list involve your unfinished basement, you’re not alone. Many modern homes come with an unfinished basement because that’s what you paid for, right? Some people choose to leave the basement as is, but others want to enjoy their basement and make it a livable space. If you’re in the latter group, we put together a few tips for making an unfinished basement livable; read on if you want to learn more.
Add plenty of lighting
One of the worst parts about basements is the light. You don’t want a single light bulb hanging from the ceiling for two reasons. First of all, it simply won’t be enough light. Secondly, and most importantly, your basement will look more like a scene from a horror movie, especially when the bulb starts flickering and swaying. Instead, invest in some basic light fixtures or use string lighting to add a cool millennial flair to your concrete box.
Get some area rugs and furniture
What livable space doesn’t have a rug and some furniture? Even if you only have one sofa, it’s better than nothing. You could easily make the basement into an entertainment room, a gym, or even a workspace. Adding an area rug will take your eye away from the concrete floor, too—that is, unless you want to install polished or stained concrete floors.
Consider painting
Whether your basement has cinder block or poured concrete walls, why not consider painting them? Not only will a fresh coat of paint get rid of that basement smell, but it’ll also brighten it up. Of course, painting might not be the best decision if you’re planning to finish the basement in the future. But if you’re not going to finish the basement, make it more livable with some paint. Pro tip: Make sure the paint you use adheres well to concrete or use a separate primer first. Otherwise, the concrete will soak up all your paint, and you’ll get stuck doing a few coats.
Take care of any leaks and reduce moisture
Arguably, the worst thing about a basement is the moisture and leaks. If you’ve had a basement before, you know what we mean. Depending on the severity of the moisture, placing a dehumidifier in the basement might be all you need. On the other hand, you might need hydraulic cement or a professional waterproofing service.
Having a basement was probably one of the reasons you wanted a home—and rightfully so. They provide additional space, storage, and a safe place during dangerous storms. Unfortunately, most builders never finish the basement, which makes them less than ideal until you make them livable. We hope our tips for making an unfinished basement livable help you enjoy your basement, avoid water-related problems, and, most importantly, keep it from looking like a horror movie scene.
