Established 2006
Benefits of Basement Conversions Edinburgh
Enhance your living space
Converting a basement or cellar is a fantastic way of increasing both living space within your home and the value of your property. Utilising the maximum available land space is often much more cost effective, and convenient, than moving home. Imagine being able to enhance your familys lifestyle by creating that space you have always wanted for a new kitchen or utility room or maybe even a games room or gym. It is possible with a professional basement conversion and the room you create will be close to your current living areas which will make it a great deal more flexible than converting another space such as an attic. Contact us to discuss basement conversions Edinburgh.
Improve thermal efficiency of your home
There are many benefits to converting your basement and as well as providing more room it can also help to keep your house more thermally efficient. Properties with a suitable basement can be up to 10% more efficient due to the insulating qualities provided during conversion and the stable temperatures found in an underground or partially submerged space.
Let natural light into your basement
Wherever possible, and required, natural light can be incorporated onto the design of your conversion by installing windows to any area that is above ground level or even glass doors to any outside access points. The use of natural light should be considered during the planning stages and will depend on the location as well as the future use for the area. If you are hoping to create a new kitchen or reception space then this may be of great importance however if a home cinema, gym or sauna is to be installed then maximising natural light might not be as significant.
Increase market value of your home
One of the main benefits of a professional basement conversion is the possibility to increase the market value of your property. Making the greatest use of the available land attached to your property by converting underground without compromising on available outside space such as a garden, yard or parking facilities would almost certainly add to the value of your home. This is especially advantageous within inner city locations where outside space can be limited and yet is highly desirable. Any increase will be dependant on factors such as the location of your property and the surrounding areas current market limitations as well as the variety of properties available in the district and their relevant costs.
Increasing the value of your property is not the only financial benefit to a basement conversion and you could choose to generate extra income by renting the new space. For this purpose, and if it is feasible, you can create a separate entrance which could enhance any potential profits from the rental by allowing you to advertise a self-contained studio apartment. Alternatively, you could rent the room only and allow the lodger to have access to the kitchen if the costs for a separate entrance are too high and any issues regarding planning permission arose, which would still provide an additional income.
Converting Edinburgh basements
Almost all buildings which currently have underground space can be converted although older properties such as Victorian or Edwardian, of which there is a high supply in Edinburgh, are often the most suitable as they typically have timber suspended floors as opposed to concrete. Despite the properties often having relatively shallow foundations an under-pinning process can be carried out to secure the extension and also to lower the floors to increase head height, which could lead to additional costs outside of the original design and build.
Design and build your basement
Whatever the size or condition of your basement, conversion can be made possible by thorough design and planning. Planning Permission may be required depending on the size of the space and whether the basement will be expanded to match the floor area of the entire building. The location and age of your property may also be a factor and this is an area which we can research and progress on your behalf. If windows or doors are to be added to the property then this may require planning permission. If your property if terraced or semi-detached then permission may be required due to the sharing of party walls which are also attached to your neighbours property. Any changes to a listed property would require planning permission even if the changes are internal only and do not effect the external facade.
Convert your basement with us
Polish Home Renovations comply with all current British Standard building regulations concerning waterproofing, damp proofing, ventilation, electrical wiring, access and fire escape and ceiling height to ensure that your conversion offers the maximum possible increase in the value of your home.
Waterproofing basements
There are a number of waterproofing techniques and systems that we use and the suitability of each will depend on the current condition of the structure and its original materials. Keeping your basement water tight and damp proof is incredibly important both for the building and expanding process as well as the future use of the space and overall strength and longevity of the property. If your basement is affected by ground water or similar issues then a pump pit and pump may need to be installed to ensure that the building remains water tight.
Basement ventilation
Ventilation is also incredibly important and to comply with current building regulations at least one ventilator is required to meet standards. The appropriate level and form of ventilation should be considered at the design and planning stage of your build. The addition of windows and or doors can dramatically improve both ventilation and the causes and effects of damp to the vicinity.
Extending services
In the majority of cases, current electrical and plumbing services can be utilised and extended to be installed within the new room and so having a definite use for the area at the design stage would be beneficial. The proposed usage will have an effect on the number of electrical sockets, TV points, telephone points and plumbing features required and so it will prove more cost effective to decide on the requirements at the earliest possible phase.
Contact us now
Therefore, if you are thinking about extending your property and are looking for a cost-effective and space saving solution then why not contact us to discuss a possible basement conversion in Edinburgh. Polish Home Renovations can offer professional service at competitive prices and assist you in every stage of your development.
