Apr
2
Should A Home Fire Sprinkler System Be A Part Of Your Basement Remodel?
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If you are in the process of remodeling or finishing your basement, you’ve already started weighing in on the costs. Finishing work, carpet and flooring materials, paint colors, decorating options – it all takes time and money. But what about protecting your investment from its inception? What about installing a home fire sprinkler system as a part of your finishing process?
The average hardware costs of a home fire sprinkler system runs anywhere from $2 to $10 per square foot, or about the same cost as hardwood or carpeting for your floors. Yet because laws do not require the use of residential sprinkler systems, very few homes have it installed. Even though most fatalities occur in single family residences.
Also, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) continually shows that average loss is considerably less in buildings with sprinkler systems – almost 5 times less as a national average. A sprinkler system can begin putting out the fire almost as soon as it starts, which helps contain the damage to one location. Compare that to waiting minutes for a call to be placed to the fire station, and fire personnel to respond to the fire and begin procedures.
So, if you’re planning a remodel, what are your thoughts? Is a home fire sprinkler system worth the price to help you protect your investment?
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Jan
7
Many people here in Denver are putting off buying a new home, and instead are looking into improving the space they already have. If you are on that track for 2010, where do you start? How do you
find top basement remodel contractors here in Denver, especially when it’s easy to hear about the horror stories on television and through your friends?
Step One. Make a plan.
Start by gathering your ideas. Do you want a home theater, a game room, or maybe a wine cellar? Put your ideas together, and start finding sample ideas in books and magazines.
Step Two. Build your budget.
Chances are you probably have some idea of what you are willing to spend. Even so, create an outline of what you’re willing to spend, and how much you can go over that amount do to unexpected costs. Your true bottom line should be used as a ballpark when finalizing any plans with a contractor.
Step Three. Start The Interviews.
Look for experienced basement remodel contractors who have worked in the Denver area for years, and have completed projects similar to yours. Interview several to find a short list of those you are comfortable with and truly understand the job you are trying to accomplish.
Step Four. Head online.
Chances are you’ve found several of your companies by searching online, and have had the chance to browse through their websites. Also look at the amount of content they are willing to share with you, and how connected they are online. Can you find reviews?
Then select the basement remodel contractor who most fits your needs, and provides the comfort level you need. Taking the time upfront to select the right person means you’ll enjoy the process along the way – and have a great new basement too.
Jul
31
Thinking of remodeling your basement? Here’s a list of 12 ideas that will get you started on your plans
1. Start with a plan in mind. Visit the bookstore or library and
page through magazines to get ideas. It’s easier to work with a contractor when you have likes and desires in mind. Don’t ignore your dislikes – they can also help a contractor avoid things you don’t like.
2. Plan for your basement. Have you had water issues in the past? Don’t ignore them because they haven’t show up in a few years. Let your contractor no ahead of time to solve the problem before it happens again.
3. Decide what type of living space is most important. How will your family use the space? Is a game room the most important feature? Or would you prefer bedrooms and bath?
Apr
17
Basement Remodeling With A Twist: Prevent Basement Flooding Before It Happens
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Most homes here in the Denver metro area have basements. And chances are you’ve thought about finishing off an unfinished basement, or
remodeling it to add some of the newest features on the market today, like a cozy home theater or a custom wine cellar.
Whether your basement is currently unfinished, or needs updating, one thing holding you back may be the chance for flooding and water damage. Who wants to put thousands of dollars into new basement design, only to have water damage a short time later?
While nothing can ever guarantee your house will not experience flooding or water damage, there are some practical steps to take to ensure low risk.
