What to Do After the Basement Waterproofing: Ideas for Lower Level Remodeling

Lower levels are becoming more important for homeowners these days. As the housing market remains pulseless, moving to a new house is not an option for many. Still, life changes happen, and new living space is often needed. The solution? Basement waterproofing.

Basement waterproofing is the process by which the homeowner takes steps to get the moisture out of their downstairs level and keep it out permanently. Sometimes, this can be a small job that just requires some basement sealing. Other times, it could be a major job involving calling in a professional to for things like mold removal. Whatever the extent of the work required, it can be very worthwhile once completed, because it allows homeowners to move forward with a basement remodeling project.

Toward that end, here are a few ideas for how to transform a lower level after the basement waterproofing is complete:

A New Entertainment Room

Mega-sized televisions and other entertainment devices all the rage these days. But many families have no place to put a massive 60" flat screen tv. Basement waterproofing can solve this problem by opening up a few hundred (or more) square feet downstairs to set up a new entertainment room for watching movies with the family or having the guys over for the big game. And with the lower level being fairly secluded from the rest of the house, it is a perfect place for a room like this.

A Home Office

One of the fastest growing trends in the 21st Century is telecommuting. Even if you don't have your own home business, many companies offer the opportunity for employees to work from home at least part of the time. The challenge is that working from home among all the distractions of the spouse and kids is much easier said than done. Creating an office in the basement can solve this problem by giving you a nice area all to yourself that is separated from the rest of the house. And when you are down in your home office, your family knows that you are not to be disturbed.

A New Bedroom

Many families that have a new addition don't have the space available to accommodate them. Creating a new bedroom downstairs after the basement waterproofing is done can help address this dilemma. If you have a new baby, it's best to keep them close to you. But maybe your oldest would be willing to give up their room next to yours in exchange for more privacy downstairs. It could be a 'win-win' for everyone involved.

An Arts & Crafts Room

Perhaps watching movies and sports aren't your thing and you are a more artistic type. Basements can be a perfect place to put in a new arts and crafts room that again is separated from the rest of the house and allows you to work on your favorite projects in peace.

Whatever remodeling dream you have for your lower level, it is no longer out of your reach. With basement waterproofing, you can put that square footage to use in the way that best pleases your family, increasing your quality of life and raising the value of your home.