Basement FAQS

Here we address common concerns regarding basement refinishing and remodeling.

What should I consider when contemplating a wet bar vs. dry bar in my basement?

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The main challenge to consider is utility hookups, especially if you favor a wet bar. Bar areas and kitchenettes have many of the same plumbing complexities as the bathroom. The pump system can often be hidden under the sink in the cabinet, but depending on the layout sometimes we create a small closet to house the pump system to not steal cabinet space. Beverage fridges, ice makers, small dishwashers have all been more common requests in these areas as clients want all of the creature comforts of the main floor brought into the basement.

Can you finish a basement with low ceilings?

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With some creativity, a basement with low ceilings can be finished. Low ceiling heights in a basement in certain key areas are inevitable unless it is a new home construction with engineered joists and mechanicals were carefully considered to maximize ceiling heights. The trick in basements is to move the things you can and what makes sense in terms of electrical and plumbing, work around key ductwork and use light colors and good lighting to maximize the feeling of space.

Are basement egress windows required in New Jersey?

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Currently New Jersey building codes only require that egress windows be installed in basement bedrooms — so if you’re hoping to add an in-law suite or give your teen their own space, they’re a must.

Nonetheless, we consider egress window wells essential for any finished basement — not only for a safe route of egress (escape) in the event of an emergency, but also because they allow for natural light and ventilation that would be impossible to achieve otherwise. You can be assured of a quality install through our trade partner just down the road in Mullica Hill, Egress Solutions

Can you put a bathroom in a basement?

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Adding a bathroom to a basement living space is a frequent request but there are a couple of conditions to consider:

  • Septic Systems – Septic systems have specific requirements when adding a basement bathroom since the waste water is discharged with a pump and a separate dosing tank is required. There is often an additional requirement to enlarge the size of the septic field and both of these items combined can be extremely expensive and often take away this possibility.
  • Pump System – Most bathrooms create a significant amount of waste water and require the installation of a croc/pump system in the floor to handle the water, which is then eliminated by a specialty pump designed to handle the volume. The pump has to push the water up to the sewer line so that it can then run out to the street with the rest of the waste water. This also includes check valves so that water can’t come back into the system, dedicated circuits for the pump, and dedicated circuits for the alarm system so that the client is alerted to a failure. These pumps are laborious to install and require cutting up concrete and running all of the drain lines to the system below the concrete slab.
  • Exhaust Fans – Required by code, exhaust fans must be present for both powder rooms and full bathrooms alike. The size of the fan is critical to evacuate the air and the path to the exterior can also be challenging.

 

How can I prevent moisture and water issues from surfacing in a finished basement?

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Making sure the basement does not have any water issues before finishing is paramount. If there are signs of water in the basement, we’ll often make a referral to a local basement waterproofing company and recommend you get that work done a year in advance of your remodel to ensure that the problems have been properly remedied. An ounce of medicine is worth a pound of cure!

Because humidity can be a concern in the summer months, we’ll talk to you about considering steel stud framing over wood framing for added moisture resistance. Supplemented with proper insulation and ventilation, you can be assured your finished basement will stay dry for years to come.

How do you soundproof a basement ceiling and walls?

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To soundproof a basement ceiling, we often apply soundproofing insulation such as rockwool. For walls, we employ an alternating stud design to help decrease the transmission of sound through vibration. We’ll also take care to seal off all penetrations, including electrical outlet and switch locations. If air can pass through it, so can sounds. If this is a critical component for your basement design, then time will be spent to create a sound plan.

Do you need a permit to finish a basement in New Jersey?

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Yes, New Jersey requires a permit for finished basements — this is because the insulation, electrical work, and framing that goes into creating an enclosed living space creates the potential for a fire risk. One of the most misunderstood and often overlooked components which separates Ayars is our understanding of fire blocking and draft stopping parameters. There are specific requirements to ensure that air is blocked from feeding the flames if a fire were to start, and we take every precaution to make sure these are handled properly in order to pass inspection.

How much does a basement remodel cost, and what can be done to mitigate unforeseen expenses?

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The cost of a basement remodel varies widely, depending on how ambitious your goals are. That’s why budgeting and planning on the front end is everything. Ayars goes through the due diligence to create a budget range to make sure we are first in alignment. An extensive amount of work is done after the design agreement is signed to make sure that all of the details are clear prior to the final contract signing. This often requires a site visit from our electrician, plumber, and HVAC trade partners if there are noted complexities. Our goal is NOT to have change orders on all of our signed projects.

Wood studs or steel studs?

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Our preferred method of framing for basements is always steel studs. We believe minimizing the presence of wood can be beneficial in the event there are ever any water issues, as well as to limit the attraction of insects.

Is drywall in a basement OK? Do I need a drop ceiling?

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Drywall is installed in basements all the time. Ensuring the basement is dry and taking precautions to make sure it stays that way is key. The ceilings can also be drywalled as long as there are no mechanical access issues. It is no different than having wiring, plumbing, and HVAC on the first or second floors. The only components to take into consideration are clean-outs, shut-offs, or other important access points since they are typically located in the basement.

How might I use my finished basement?

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In most cases, basements are used for additional living space or recreational areas. Sometimes this may include a dry bar/wet bar, which can be custom-designed to fit your needs. Finished basements are often more attractive than additions due to the benefit of not expanding the home’s footprint and are usually less expensive per square foot.

Is my basement ready for a remodel?

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That depends on a few factors. First, you must ensure your basement does not have issues with water. Secondly, the foundation walls should be checked to ensure that there are not any structural issues. All mechanicals including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing need to be inspected to ensure that provisions can be made for access to key areas where necessary. Newly adopted New Jersey code requires an additional point of egress in addition to the stairway leading to the basement, and any bedroom in a basement requires a separate exitway. This is typically accomplished by installing an egress window with a window well.