The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

How To Remodel Basements And Attics

Is Remodeling Worthwhile?

BECAUSE BASEMENT REMODELING is such an interesting and easy-to-accomplish project, and because such remodeling promises to solve many of your space, storage and other household problems, your enthusiasm could, possibly, race ahead of one important consideration. Will the remodeling be worthwhile?

This question requires two answers. The first answer was settled when you set forth the purpose of the project (see Chapter 2). The second answer cannot be settled until you read this chapter. It isn't likely that this answer will have much, if any, effect on your remodeling hopes. However, to be on the safe side, you should carefully consider all of the following aspects.

The second answer consists of five major parts: (1) the structural condition of your house; (2) the location of your house; (3) the economics of remodeling; (4) the architectural style of your house, and (5) the effect on real-estate taxes.

STRUCTURAL CONDITION

Most old houses, as well as all the newer ones, are structurally sound. Thus, they can be depended upon to last and serve their purpose for a great many years. On the other hand, an old house, and even some of the newer ones, could possibly be a poor risk so far as any remodeling is concerned. The following check list is suggested for your use.

Wood beams

See A in Fig. 1. Check the condition of such beams in your house. Here are the items to look for:

1. Cracks and splits. If the beams are cracked or split to any appreciable extent along their lower edges they are probably overloaded and would have to be replaced or reinforced in order to make them perfectly safe.

2. Sagging. If the beams sag or bend down between the posts that support them, they need reinforcing to make them safe.

3. Rot. If you find "punky" or soft sections in the beams you can be sure that some form of rot has started. Rotted beams are not safe.