From a comfortable living space to a place for storage and laundry, your basement is a versatile area that needs your attention. While basements are generally safe places to be, steps should be taken to keep them safe for the home’s occupants. Just because it’s out of sight doesn’t mean it should be out of mind.
Here are five tips to make your basement a safer place:
Make Sure Everything Is Up To Code
Get your basement inspected to ensure everything is up to code, including any egress windows, ductwork, electricity, and equipment like water heaters. These building codes are essential to a safe basement as they dictate the minimum design and construction requirement to create resilient structures to prevent things like faulty wiring and poor waterproofing. If you plan on converting your unfinished basement to finished, you will need a building permit to meet these codes.
Have Egress Windows
If your basement is finished, ensure that you have installed egress windows. These windows not only help add value to your home but are a safe means of escape in an emergency. Egress windows also require a window well, which prevents debris and earth from blocking the exit.
Get Your Basement Waterproofed
No one likes musty, moist basements. If your basement is experiencing leaks, cracks, and other visible moisture, it’s time to call in the professionals to get it waterproofed. If needed, install dehumidifiers and update your vapor barrier to control humidity.
A waterproofed basement means a healthier home environment, helps prevent structural damage and reduces insurance claims.
Have Alarms Installed
Have alarms like fire, carbon monoxide, and water alarms in your basement. Having these installed will keep you, your family, and your home safe by alerting you to emergency events like a fire.
Check For Radon And Other Problems
Whether or not you’ll be using your basement as a living space, get it tested for radon and other problems like mold and mildew. A basement health check each year will help you catch and fix any potential problems early.
At Missouri Basement, our team of experts provides each homeowner with the best solutions for a safe basement you’ll want to spend time in.