Caring for Your Newly Finished Basement:  Maintain Your Investment

Whether you’ve transformed your basement into a cozy family room, a home office, or an entertainment space, there are a few steps you can take to keep your investment looking its best for years to come. We’ve put together a few expert tips to help you care for your new space to keep it as beautiful as the day it was finished.

1. Controlling Humidity

Basements are naturally moist environments, so controlling the humidity is crucial to protecting them. Although our basement finishing products are inorganic and will not mold or mildew, the same may not be true for wood furniture you place in your basement. For the sake of keeping your furniture clean and dry, aim to keep the humidity level between 30-50%. Many homeowners choose to include a SaniDry XP system in their projects, a powerful dehumidifier designed specially for the basement. Even if you don’t use this system, any powerful dehumidifier, especially in the warmer months, can help prevent issues like mold, mildew, and furniture warping.

2. Protect Your Floors

We use ElitePlank flooring, a strong Luxury Vinyl Plank, in most basement projects. Although it looks like wood, it isn’t easily damaged, warped, or dinged. This makes it much easier to protect your floors. However, if they do experience any kind of damage, each plank can be easily removed and replaced. 

8. Mind the Moisture in Storage Areas

If you finished part of your basement, leaving the rest for storage, it’s especially important that you watch the moisture levels in these areas. Mildew in your basement can travel through the air into the upper levels of your home, making those with allergies sick. In addition to the effect this has on your air quality, it can also harm the items you're storing. For example, if you’re keeping documents, books, or clothing in these spaces, excessive moisture could destroy them. If you choose not to use a dehumidifier in these areas, you can use sealed plastic bins rather than boxes to keep moisture out and protect your belongings.

9. Watch for Pests

Depending on the layout of your new space, pests can still be a problem, even in a finished environment. If you have an exterior door leading to a patio or below your deck, you may have to take extra precautions to keep insects out. Shaded areas can attract mosquitos, flies, and spiders, making it difficult to keep them from getting inside when walking through. Using bug repellents outside of exterior doors and cleaning them regularly can help to limit this problem.

10. Enjoy Your Space

Finally, the best way to care for your newly finished basement is to use it! Enjoy the newly expanded space in your home with your family and friends. By using your basement, you’ll notice any potential problems as they arise. The quicker you can address these problems, the less trouble they cause.

Your finished basement is an extension of your home, giving you extra living space and value. With regular maintenance, you can keep it looking and functioning at its best for years to come. If you have any questions or need help caring for your basement, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at blackdogbasements.com. We’re here to help you make the most of your new space!