How to make a new home even better

Buying a new home can be a stressful time. There are so many things to consider from the safety of the neighbourhood, to the size of the backyard to the number of bathrooms in your home. One other important thing you need to consider is whether there is room to upgrade or even finish any rooms such as the basement.

The basement has huge potential. Before you turn your new space into a family room, game room, bedroom or creative workshop, you need to first assess the rooms insulation needs. And don't forget, the best time to transform your basement into a living area is when your new home is being built. It's less disruptive and more cost-effective to insulate prior to moving in. You can then plan and create a space that suits your needs perfectly.

Whether your basement is a do-it yourself project or if you're working with a builder, the project begins with insulation. Here are four easy steps to completing your basement renovation:

MOISTURE BARRIER

o Place a moisture barrier against the inside of the concrete wall from the floor to finished grade level

STUD WALL

o Build a standard wall frame wall using 2x6 wood studs and place it in front of the concrete wall

INSULATE

o Install R-20 PINK Fiberglas batt insulation between the studs and ensure the inner surface of the batts are flush with the inside surfaces of the studs and are up tight against the concrete foundation wall, creating a solid thermal barrier between studs which can conserve energy to help reduce heating costs.

VAPOUR RETARDER

o Staple the polyethylene sheet (an insulating plastic ) over the entire wall on the warm in winter side of the wall

After you're finished framing and insulating, you may finish the wall to suit your tastes - whether its drywall or wood paneling. No matter if the basement is used to play, work or relax, this additional living space can accommodate any growing family. For more information on basement insulation, visit www.owenscorning.ca.

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

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