We started this basement remodel from the ground up, literally… This basement was taking on water, the slab was crumbling and you had to duck to get down the stairs. That’s just a few of this houses many challenges.
First step was to get rid of the water issues. We worked with Terra Firma to replace the old crumbling slab and install a drainage and dry track system to ensure a moisture free living space.
Second step, protect the house from unforeseen natural disasters. For this we installed seismic (earthquake) retrofitting, which in simple terms means we fastened the house to the foundation.
Third on the list, address the head clearance issue with the stairs. When walking down the original set of stairs you had to duck. It was a hazard, plus the lack of clearance meant it was not up to todays code standards. We worked with Harka Architecture to come up with a structural solution to remove a section of joist to allow for the proper clearance. This meant we had to temporarily support a section of the house while installing a structural beam. Then we were able to remove a section of the problem joist.
Fourth step, we installed an egress window with a concrete well in the bedroom. This final preliminary step allowed us to move forward with the standard remodel. Framing, plumbing, design, finishes, etc.
Some of the main features of this new living space are the stained baltic birch ceilings installed by us and polished concrete floors throughout, done by Alternative Edge Custom Concrete. This truly made it a showpiece with contemporary feel.
Another hi-light is the bathroom. The bathroom features a 3×5 tile shower complete with two shower heads, a handheld wand, a shaving pedestal, and large heavy-duty glass door. Additional amenities include a bidet toilet and wall mounted vanity.
When DCR concluded this remodel, the client gained 750 square feet of contemporary living space and a second bathroom to their single bathroom home. This renovation increased the clients home value by approximately 33%.
