Basement Conversion – For Effective Utilization of Space in the House

Space crunch is the biggest problem faced by people at most places. Many people try to make space in their properties by extending the house either upwards or downwards. When space in the rooms becomes insufficient, roofs/basement in the house is converted as living areas. Basement conversion is the most happening among people and people are ready to invest in it for many reasons. Earlier basements were meant as storage space, utility area or for storing wine. With changing lifestyle the needs and requirements change and basements are considered as affordable and comfortable living space. Basement conversions add value to the property and the worthiness of the property increases manifolds. Basements conversion can be done to create more space in the living room or extra space in the bedrooms or basements can be used as guest rooms, swimming pool, recreation room or gymnasium or as a large bathroom. The options are many. Basements can be converted to create more living space within the property. The procedure is simple, cost effective and worth the money.

 Before going in for the basement conversion one has to make sure the changes made will be according to the building norms. The safety aspect has to be taken care such that the connectivity to the basement - the stairs are safe and the entrance or the exit to the basement is in good shape and the support for the upper floor structure is not altered in the reconstruction. The minimum requisite for the height of the basement is 2.4m or more. The width of the basement can be any number. Moisture is another aspect that has to be taken care in the basement. The walls have to be water proofed so that moisture or ground water doesn’t seep in and alternate drainage channels are created so that water finds a way out safely without affecting the walls. Plumbing and electricity work needs to be done to make sure the wires are all concealed and are safe for use. The lightings in the basement have to be reworked incase it is converted into a living area or children’s bedroom. It is important to make sure the basement is well ventilated and it adheres to the building norms. For natural ventilation, windows can be created flat on the ground or cylindrical tubes can be inserted on the ground such that the light gets reflected from the surface to the basement. Heating/insulation system must also be in place to provide warmth within the basement. After all these works have been completed, basement can be decorated with suitable color walls, flooring, and furniture.

Basement conversions are relatively simpler than creating a new basement. It requires good planning, execution and proper permission from the authorities. Hiring an expert for basement conversions is a good option as there is guarantee for the work done for over ten years and more. Experts in basement conversions can be chosen based on the customer feedback, the quality of work done and completion of projects within a stipulated time.

Damp Proof Membrane for Walls – Protective Layers for Years to Come

One of the first things that make buildings look old and old buildings look ugly is the presence of dampness on the walls and ceilings. The permeation of water and moisture from natural factors such as rain lead to puffing and swelling of the inside plasters of walls and ceilings with an incongruous effect on the painted walls as well. A damp proof membrane for walls will prevent this water permeation and even restrict the dampness of a certain wall to extend further to other parts of the walls and ceilings. Besides the odd looks the presence of dampness can create on the walls of your house, this is also a potent cause of weakening of the foundations of a building. 

How Does A Membrane Work?  

Sometimes preventive materials are not used adequately while constructing a new building which is why dampness and moisture may be seen within a few years. However there is now an easier solution available with damp proof membrane for walls. These can be fitted to affected areas of walls and ceilings to prevent the moisture from further damaging the area. This will also prevent the dampness to spread in other parts of the wall.

The materials used for the damp control and prevention is made from plastic. The usual thickness of the material is 0.5 mm. there are small patterns created on the surface that look like raised motifs; these have a depth of 3mm to 5mm approximately. The designs are faced towards the walled surface that helps to create a gap between the membrane and the wall. It is more like a breathing space for the walls which is important.

Where Can You Avail Good Quality Membranes?

You can consult a building construction company or a building contractor and they will help you with detailed information about it. They can also carry out the installation of dampproof membrane for walls. For more information about products available, you can look online. Manufacturing companies of various types of this material are available with all relevant information on the array of their product designs and their individual advantages.

Company websites and online stores are also a great way to educate yourself about the way damp proof membranes are installed and the kind of protection it provides. The membrane material is available in different designs which will be suited for the affected walls of your home. Most companies have a helpline number where you can talk to a helpful executive about the nature of your building dampness problem and the product that would be best suited for you. Necessary advice on the selection of appropriate damp proof membrane material will be given to you.