Diephuis Builders, Inc.
Basement Remodeling
Converting your unused basement into a livable space is a complex affair that needs an expert contractor handling the basement finishing. There are various pre-finishing steps that have to be taken. The basement has to be made waterproof to discourage the growth of mold, mildew and musty odors. Once your basement is dry enough, the walls have to be prepared to enhance the water proofing. And only when this has been taken care of, can you look into the choice and colors of paints, furniture and furnishings, floor coverings and the other design elements of your Grand Rapids, MI area basement renovation.
The first step towards a beautifully finished basement is waterproofing. Moisture problems in your basement can quickly lead to icky mold and mildew growing on the walls, peeling paint, musty odors, and cracked and crumbling walls. Even if your basement looks perfectly dry, it is advisable to take care of water proofing before basement finishing to avoid damage from flooding or leaks later.
The flooring too may have to be reinforced by laying a sub floor over the concrete basement floor. This provides a base for your other floor coverings. Use light colored paints on your walls to create an illusion of brightness. For finished basement that will have multiple uses, don't clutter the entire area with furniture and equipment. Instead, section off the basement into separate areas by using partitions, or putting up walls.
Before you begin on your basement remodeling project, plant out your floor space to visualize what your finished basement will look like. Changing minds mid way through the project will result in loss of money and time. Also, consider the age of the people who will use the basement most often. For instance, if you are finishing your basement to use as an extra bedroom for your parents when they come to town, you will need a fully outfitted bathroom with a bath tub. If your local building quotes call for an emergency exit for all bedrooms, you will have to provide for this too. Once you have a floor plan for your finished basement, it's easy to design the new space to reflect your tastes.
Recent Requests
We own an old home (1942) near downtown / heights area, around 1110 sq. ft. We have plenty of room on our lot to add a master suite in the place of our second driveway, we would also like to add on the utility to have it inside the home instead of out in the garage. I have plans drawn up but need blueprints done, I am an interior designer so I have a pretty good idea of what I want but am definitely open to idea's / changes. We are excited about making this addition to our home sometime in the next year, we'll have to before we have a second child. I feel that I need to get the ball rolling now so we know what we're talking about time wise and money wise. Please call / contact me with any questions. thank you.
M. M.
I would like to convert my garage into an office. I would like to raise the floor so that it matches the house. The garage has a bathroom that also needs to be raised. Inside the garage is AC, and gas water heater. Gaage has already been enclosed by previous owner. Would prefer someone with references in garage conversions, so I can see your work.
Javier L