If you have a growing family, you may want to add a new bedroom to your home. Adding a bedroom can also add more value to your home. If you have space in your basement, you should first consider adding the bedroom there. Adding a bedroom to the basement is much less expensive and more time consuming than adding a bedroom to the house. Still, like any other remodeling project, adding a bedroom to the foundation takes time and planning. Well planned, a basement bedroom can be a cozy and comfortable place.

What are the important steps to add a bedroom to my basement?

1. When planning a bedroom, you’ll want to keep a few safety factors in mind. These factors include an alternate exit from the bedroom, in case the stairwell is blocked by fire. With this in mind, it is very smart to have a window that opens (an egress window) or other means of escape from the basement room.

2. You’ll also want to consider the humidity in the basement itself. This moisture can cause all sorts of problems if you’re not careful, so it’s wise to make sure your basement is dry before proceeding to the next step.

3. Be sure to clear the basement area where you plan to add your room. Remove all items, such as sports equipment, boxes, and furniture, so you have space to work.

4. If a new floor covering is to be applied, be sure to sweep the existing floor and mop the floor surface with a commercial or consumer floor cleaner.

5. Plan your walls. Some people add paneling to the walls, while others add drywall. With a little extra effort, drywall provides a thicker wall that offers extra protection, as well as holding picture frames and other wall art that drywall might not.

6. If you plan to hang drywall, frame the bedroom with 2x4s. Be sure to cut holes for plugs and phone connections in the drywall. Be sure to insulate the walls and ceiling in accordance with building regulations.

7. Since lighting is a major issue in foundations due to the lack of natural light, you will need to choose a lighting fixture or scheme for the space.

8. Apply paint to the newly formed walls by first applying a coat of primer followed by two coats of paint. Be sure to let each coat of paint dry completely (preferably overnight), before adding the next coat of paint.

9. Since the bases usually have a cold concrete floor, it would be preferable and much more comfortable to add floors or perhaps carpets. Although natural hardwood floors are popular, carpet tiles and area rugs are just as popular for that comfortable, homey feel.

10. Move the bedroom furniture into your new room and arrange it to your liking

11. Enjoy your new room for years to come.