Expert Basement and Cellar Conversion Advice
Basements and cellars are not very common in the UK. But if you are lucky enough to have one, you may wish to convert it for many reasons. There is the obvious reason of adding more space and value to your home. But had you considered the positive environmental implications? By building down rather than building on more land, you gain more floor area but don’t create a bigger footprint. You can also save on your energy costs with a basement. This is due to fewer exposed outside walls and the
wall and
floor insulation you will add to your extra room. This adds up to a building which regulates its temperature more efficiently.
In order to convert the cellar, building regulations will be required and in some cases so will planning permission. Before starting the project submit a pre-application form to your local planning authority or visit their website for further guidance. Four important things to consider with basements are access, lighting, water-proofing and water. We can help with these at Jewson.
Access
We have a wide number of bespoke staircase options to create a statement piece in your basement. Plus, all the finishing touches, such as spindles and newel posts. Our high-quality stairs and accessories are from trusted brands, such as JELD-WEN.
Lighting
Natural lighting may not always be an option with basements. There might be a possibility to funnel light into the room with sky tunnels. If not, we have a great choice of artificial lighting solutions to create the perfect level of light.
Water-proofing
Another factor that is particular to a basement renovation is the question of tanking. This ensures that the cellar is completely free of damp and water ingress prior to being fitted out and decorated. Jewson supply all the materials required to do this including
waterproof membranes, specialist cement and plasterboard. If you need to dry the space out, you can also hire an industrial dehumidifier with our tool hire service.
Water
If you want running water in your basement, you’ll need to consider how the waste will connect to the sewer. We have a great range of solutions for this, including water pump systems. The Saniplus Macerator Pump can connect to water fixtures for efficient water movement.
