The Benefits of Having a Walkout Basement in Your Home

In Toronto’s competitive real estate market, homeowners constantly look for innovative ways to maximize their living space without sacrificing yard area or dramatically altering their home’s footprint. With the average cost of detached homes in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) continuing to rise, many property owners are turning their attention downward—to their basements. A walkout basement created through professional underpinning services offers a unique solution that can transform an underutilized space into a valuable extension of your home. This renovation not only enhances your living experience but can significantly increase your property’s value in Toronto’s dynamic housing market.

Understanding Walkout Basements and Underpinning

A walkout basement is exactly what it sounds like—a basement with direct access to the outdoors, typically through a full-sized door that leads to the backyard or side of the property. Unlike traditional basements that are fully underground, walkout basements are partially above ground on at least one side, allowing for natural light and easy exterior access.

Underpinning (also known as basement lowering) is the foundation strengthening process that often makes walkout basements possible in existing homes. This structural technique involves extending the foundation depth to create more headroom in the basement while simultaneously reinforcing the existing foundation. In Toronto’s older neighborhoods where many homes have shallow foundations and low basement ceilings, underpinning is frequently necessary before converting a standard basement into a walkout space.

The Toronto Housing Market: Making the Most of Limited Space

Toronto’s housing landscape presents unique challenges for homeowners. With limited lot sizes in desirable neighborhoods and skyrocketing property values, expanding outward is often not an option—either due to space constraints or prohibitive costs.

The average residential lot in Toronto is considerably smaller than in many other North American cities, making vertical expansion (adding floors) or basement development increasingly attractive. Creating a walkout basement through underpinning allows homeowners to gain substantial living space without encroaching on precious yard areas or altering the home’s street-facing appearance.

For families who love their neighborhood but need more space, a walkout basement offers a practical solution that avoids the significant costs and disruption of moving to a larger home in the same area. With Toronto’s real estate prices continuing to challenge affordability, maximizing existing property through basement development has become a savvy investment strategy.

Finished-Basement-With-Musty-Odour-Toronto-800x600

Benefits of Walkout Basements Created Through Underpinning

1. Increased Living Space Without Sacrificing Yard Area

One of the most compelling advantages of creating a walkout basement is the ability to expand your home’s livable area without reducing outdoor space. In Toronto’s urban environment, where green space is at a premium, preserving yard area while gaining interior square footage represents the best of both worlds. Through proper underpinning techniques, you can transform a previously cramped, underutilized basement into a comfortable living area with full ceiling height and proper accessibility.

2. Natural Light and Improved Air Quality

Traditional basements often suffer from limited natural light and poor ventilation, making them less desirable as living spaces. A walkout basement fundamentally changes this dynamic. By incorporating full-sized windows and doors on the exposed wall, these spaces receive significantly more natural light than conventional basements. The direct outdoor access also improves air circulation, creating a healthier environment that feels more like an above-grade living space than a basement.

3. Versatile Usage Options

The additional headroom, natural light, and separate entrance make walkout basements exceptionally versatile. Homeowners in the GTA are converting these spaces into:

  • Legal secondary suites or income-generating rental apartments
  • Home offices with professional, separate entrances
  • Entertainment spaces or recreation rooms
  • Guest accommodations for extended family
  • Home gyms or wellness areas
  • Creative studios or workshops
  • Teenage retreats or multigenerational living solutions

This versatility allows the space to adapt to your changing needs over time, providing long-term value beyond the initial investment.

4. Substantial Return on Investment

In Toronto’s competitive real estate market, a properly executed walkout basement can significantly increase your property’s value. Real estate professionals estimate that finished walkout basements can recoup 70-75% of their cost immediately upon completion, with full value realization when selling the property.

The income potential from a legal secondary suite can also offset the renovation costs over time. With Toronto’s rental market experiencing consistent demand, a well-designed basement apartment can generate substantial monthly income while providing affordable housing options in desirable neighborhoods.

5. Energy Efficiency Considerations

When properly waterproofed and insulated during the underpinning process, walkout basements can contribute to your home’s overall energy efficiency. The earth surrounding the below-grade portions provides natural insulation, while the renovation process offers an opportunity to incorporate modern insulation materials and energy-efficient windows and doors. These improvements can lead to lower heating and cooling costs throughout the year.

Toronto Climate Considerations for Walkout Basements

The GTA’s variable climate presents specific challenges that must be addressed when creating a walkout basement:

Winter Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Toronto experiences significant freeze-thaw cycles that can stress foundation walls and create pathways for water infiltration. Professional waterproofing is essential to protect your investment and prevent moisture issues.

Spring Flooding Risks: Seasonal rainfall and snowmelt can create elevated groundwater levels in many Toronto neighborhoods. Proper drainage systems, including interior and exterior waterproofing, weeping tiles, and possibly sump pump installation, are critical components of any walkout basement project.

Humidity Management: Toronto’s humid summers can create condensation issues in below-grade spaces. Effective ventilation systems and appropriate dehumidification solutions should be incorporated into the design to maintain comfort and prevent mold growth.

Working with experienced local contractors who understand these regional challenges is crucial for creating a walkout basement that remains dry and comfortable throughout Toronto’s seasonal changes.

Understanding Local Regulations and Building Codes

Creating a walkout basement in Toronto requires navigating specific local regulations:

Building Permits: Any underpinning project requires proper permits from the City of Toronto. Working with knowledgeable contractors who can help manage this process is essential.

Secondary Suite Requirements: If you plan to use the space as a rental unit, additional requirements apply regarding separate entrances, fire safety, ceiling height, and egress windows. The City of Toronto has specific bylaws governing secondary suites that must be followed.

Lot Grading Considerations: Altering your property’s grade to accommodate a walkout entrance may require additional approvals, especially if it affects drainage patterns that could impact neighboring properties.

Professional foundation contractors with experience in Toronto’s regulatory environment can help you navigate these requirements while ensuring your project meets all applicable codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical underpinning and walkout basement project take in the GTA?

The timeline varies depending on the project’s scope, but most residential underpinning projects to create walkout basements take between 6-12 weeks. Factors affecting the timeline include the home’s size, soil conditions, weather during construction, and any unexpected structural issues discovered during excavation.

What is the average cost of creating a walkout basement with underpinning in Toronto?

While costs vary significantly based on specific requirements, homeowners should typically budget between $150-$250 per square foot for comprehensive underpinning and basement finishing. This includes foundation work, waterproofing, exterior excavation, window and door installation, and interior finishing. Additional factors like premium finishes, custom features, or challenging site conditions can increase this estimate.

Will underpinning disrupt my daily life during construction?

There will be some disruption during the project, but experienced contractors implement strategies to minimize impact on your daily routine. Most underpinning work can be completed in sections, allowing you to maintain occupancy of your home throughout the process. The most disruptive phases typically occur during initial excavation and concrete pouring.

How can I ensure my walkout basement stays dry in Toronto’s climate?

Comprehensive waterproofing is essential and should include interior and exterior membrane applications, proper drainage systems, sump pump installation when necessary, and appropriate landscaping to direct water away from the foundation. Working with contractors specialized in Toronto foundation waterproofing ensures solutions appropriate for local soil and climate conditions.

Creating a Walkout Basement in Toronto

Creating a walkout basement through professional underpinning represents one of the most effective ways to expand your living space while enhancing your Toronto home’s functionality and value. In a real estate market where every square foot counts, this renovation strategy delivers exceptional returns both in quality of life and potential property appreciation.

At Nusite Group, our 30+ years of experience in the Greater Toronto Area have equipped us with the expertise to handle every aspect of walkout basement creation—from structural underpinning and waterproofing to ensuring compliance with local building codes. Our comprehensive approach addresses Toronto’s unique climate challenges while delivering beautiful, functional spaces that transform how you experience your home.

If you’re considering a walkout basement for your Toronto property, contact our expert team for a consultation. We’ll help you evaluate your home’s potential and develop a customized solution that maximizes both living space and property value without sacrificing your outdoor areas.

8 Great Reasons You Should Finish Your Basement

Finishing your basement is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home. Not only does it expand your living space, but it also adds value, improves energy efficiency, and enhances the overall functionality of your home. If your basement currently has low ceilings or limited usability, basement lowering is a crucial step to unlock the full potential of this area. By lowering the floor, you can create a comfortable and spacious living environment that suits your family’s needs.

There are many benefits to having a finished basement, but it can often be one of the most forgotten rooms in the house. If you are thinking about finishing your basement, consider that a finished basement can add value to your house, increase your usable space, and be a fun and flexible room for family gathering, crafting, or even just better organized storage.

In a city like Toronto, real estate is a premium, so adding living space on your existing land is more economical and saves you from expanding into your already small backyard. Look at your basement and think of all the possibilities that it holds –a finished basement give you many benefits as a homeowner, from increased sales value to a higher quality of life at home.  And if you don’t have a full height basement, you can consider a basement lowering project to turn your unfinished basement into a wonderful living space.

Basement Lowering Toronto Finished Basement

1. Add More Living Space

One of the most immediate benefits of finishing your basement is the addition of significant living space. This area can be transformed into anything from a cozy family room to a dedicated hobby space. For those seeking more comfort, basement lowering can make a significant difference by increasing the height of the ceiling, offering a more open and airy feel. With this added height, you can create entertainment areas like a home theater or gaming room, where both comfort and style are prioritized. Alternatively, use the space for a guest bedroom, providing a private area for visiting friends or family.

2. Increase Home Value

Finishing your basement has a direct impact on your home’s market value. This additional square footage makes your property more appealing to potential buyers, especially in competitive real estate markets. With basement lowering, you can enhance this even further by offering a more functional and spacious lower level. For instance, a basement that has been lowered and converted into a modern living area can be used for a variety of purposes, whether it’s a luxurious lounge or a personal gym. This not only sets your home apart but could result in a higher resale value, especially in urban areas where space is at a premium.

3. Create a Rental Unit

Basements are perfect for creating separate rental units, especially in cities where housing demand is high. However, local regulations often require a minimum ceiling height for legal basement apartments. Basement lowering can help you meet these requirements, ensuring you can rent out the space while adhering to building codes. After lowering the basement, consider turning it into a one-bedroom rental with a full kitchen and bathroom, offering tenants a comfortable and affordable place to live. The added bonus is long-term income potential without compromising on your own living space.

4. Energy Efficiency

Finishing a basement can also enhance your home’s energy efficiency. By adding insulation to the walls and floors, you help to reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer during the colder months. When combined with basement lowering, you can ensure that the space stays better insulated. For example, after lowering the basement, you could install energy-efficient windows or heated flooring, which not only improves comfort but also saves on utility bills. This energy efficiency extends to the whole house, reducing overall heating and cooling costs.

5. Better Storage

If you need more storage, a finished basement is an ideal solution. Rather than cluttering attics or garages, your basement can be outfitted with organized storage systems, including shelving units, closets, and even custom cabinetry. Basement lowering further enhances this functionality by increasing usable space, making it easier to store larger items like seasonal decorations or sports equipment. With the added height, you can also create a more visually appealing storage room that seamlessly integrates with the rest of your finished basement, keeping your home neat and organized.

6. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Basements are notorious for dampness and poor air quality, but finishing this space provides the opportunity to address those issues. Modern construction methods like improved insulation, vapor barriers, and proper ventilation can drastically improve air circulation. Basement lowering can make room for a more advanced ventilation system that effectively reduces moisture buildup, preventing mold and mildew from forming. By investing in basement lowering, you can create a healthier living environment, improving the overall air quality for the entire house.

7. Expand Home’s Functionality

Finishing your basement allows for multi-purpose rooms that can evolve with your family’s needs over time. For example, you might start with a playroom for young children that can later transform into a home office or study space. Basement lowering allows for more flexibility, giving you the opportunity to create rooms that serve multiple functions without feeling cramped. Imagine designing a space that can be both a workout room and a media room, offering versatility in a single area of your home.

8. Boost Curb Appeal

While curb appeal typically refers to the exterior of your home, a finished basement can still play a role in how your property is perceived. Potential buyers will be impressed by the extra space, which gives the entire home a more cohesive and complete feel. Basement lowering can also contribute to curb appeal by allowing for larger windows that increase natural light, making the basement space feel more inviting. Additionally, modern finishes in the basement, combined with structural improvements, can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home.

Finish Your Toronto Basement

A finished basement offers endless possibilities, from increased living space to better storage, and even a potential income-generating rental unit. When combined with basement lowering, you can maximize these benefits by ensuring your basement is not only usable but comfortable and stylish. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value or create a versatile space for your family, the advantages of finishing and lowering your basement are clear. It’s a home improvement project that pays off in both the short and long term.

How Serious is Radon in a Home?

Radon in Toronto Home Graphic

Many Toronto area homeowners have heard of radon, but aren’t exactly sure what it is and how serious of a health problem it may pose. Radon is a natural radioactive gas which can be found in the ground when radium and uranium  decays. On average, there may be up to 50 pounds of uranium in the ground in an acre of land and it decays into radium, which in turn naturally decays into radon. Radon by itself doesn’t pose any health hazards since it’s an inert gas. However, the gas can decay into lead and polonium articles which are both radioactive and chemically active. The radioactive particles can then be breathed into your body and lodge in your trachea, bronchi, and lungs. Human cells can be disrupted and mutated by the radiation and this can eventually cause lung cancer. In fact, it’s estimated that radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in America.

Radon Systems Toronto

Radon is odourless and invisible can find its way into a home by creeping through small spaces in the rock and soil which the house sits on. It can also seep into a building through floor drains, dirt floors and sump pits as well as any cracks in the basement floor, foundation, and foundation walls. A level of 70,000 atoms in each liter of air can be a cause for concern as it represents approximately two million atoms of radon in a cubic foot of air. Even though this is a low concentration of atoms in the air radon is dangerous because it’s radioactive. Humans breathe approximately 20 litres of air into their lungs per minute which results in about 10,000 atoms of radioactive radon each minute. This exposure to the gas can then lead to lung cancer.

CDC Stata Radon Deaths

Testing for Radon
The best way to find out if there’s radon present in your home is to have a professional contractor conduct a test. Short-term tests take between two and seven days with a charcoal accumulator system while long-term tests can take between three and 12 months and are carried out with an electrets or by alpha track. First time testing is usually the short-term option. It’s important that you have a qualified technician conduct the test so the proper mitigation system can be installed if the radon level is too high.

If there’s too much radon in your home there are several ways to alleviate the problem. One of the most common is known as a sub-slab depressurization system which includes the installation of fans and pipes. This system is designed to prevent the radon gas from seeping into the building below the foundation and concrete floor. Other methods can be used to rid the home of radon and these will typically depend on the design of the building. Also, radon can creep into homes of any age and also those which don’t have a basement.

Dangerous levels of radon in a home mean it’s time to take action. Having a home tested is easy and relatively inexpensive. While you may be able to find do-it-yourself test kits you may feel more confident by hiring a professional contractor to carry out the test with specialized equipment. A qualified technician will advise you on the most effective way of ridding your home from its specific level of radon. You may also want to have a professional contractor test for radon before buying a home to make sure level is acceptable. In addition, some new homes are being built with radon-resistant features.

Unfinished Basement: Turn It Into A Useful Space

Finished Basement in Toronto

Most homeowners don’t make very good use of their basement.  If it’s an unfinished basement, it’s probably a laundry room and a very big storage space.  As a waterproofing company here in Toronto, the two biggest reasons people do not finish their basements are finances and chronic water leaks in their basement.

It’s hard to have a bright and airy basement when it feels and smells like you’re in a dungeon.  Chronic dampness and mold will do that.  If you have the budget, finishing your basement, or even creating a walkout basement can do wonders for ventilation and lighting.  Often times, finances don’t allow for a fully finished basement, though stopping the water leaks is probably a pre-requisite if you want to use the space, finished or unfinished.

Even in you don’t finish your basement, there are lots of creative ways you can make use of the space, and you won’t have to spend a fortune to do it.  Some ideas are:

 

Children’s Play Space

Create a safe and open space for you children to play.  It gets them out of the main living areas, reduces the traffic and cleanup for you, and creates a nice out of the way space for your little ones to play.  If they’re little, it can be a great downstairs play area while you take care of the laundry!

Kids Basement Playroom Toronto

Home Office

Need some peace and quiet so you can get some work done?  Find a cozy corner of the basement to concentrate on your work.  Often times, it may be simply running a cable line or power cord from the first floor so you can have your internet and power for you electronics and lighting.

Basement Home Office Toronto

Fitness Room

With some floor mats, a heavy bag, and some music, you can turn your dark basement into your own training center.  Exercise equipment can be loud and heavy, making it disruptive if there is living space below so the basement is a perfect place.

Basement Family Room

Family Room

A couple of couches, an area rug and a TV….and you have a great place to host family night!

Basement Family Room


Step 1: Make Sure It’s Waterproof

As you can see, there are lots of great ideas for turning that unused space into something you can enjoy.  Before you start, here are some ideas to keep in mind.

While a little moisture in an unfinished basement may seem unimportant, it matters a great deal when you’re investing money to build it out. Consider this. Damp is going to stain your new finishes and eventually ruin the job. You’re also going to have to rip them out to make repairs.

Moisture and lack of ventilation will ruin your basement fun if left untreated.  If you do have a water leak in your basement, find the source and call in a waterproofing company to fix it before you start.  Adding ventilation in the form of fans and possibly a dehumidifier will also help keep the air dry and circulating.

Step 2: Have a Proper Plan

Do you have electrical outlets?  Will you need them?  Is the space away from your utilities, especially if it’s a children’s play area.  Making sure the area is safe and that you have the proper resources before selecting the section of the basement for your new space.  Remove any clutter in the area and move it to a remote part of the basement.

Step 3: Lighting

One of the things that make an unfinished basement somewhat depressing is that lack of lighting.  If it’s going to be a space where you’re going o be spending any sort of time in, be sure to brighten the place up.  Ikea can give you some great, low-cost ideas for track lighting as well as floor and table lamps.

Step 5: Apply Finishes

Your choice of colors can make a big impact on the look and feel of your space.  There are several options for painting bare concrete walls and floors that can turn your basement into a bright and happy atmosphere without spending alot of money.  Also consider area rugs and child/gym mat flooring options that are also inexpensive.

Step 6: Install the Furniture and Fittings

Once the lighting, walls and flooring are in place, it’s time to move your furnishings in.  If you’ll be using furniture, consider using it in a way that sections off that part of your basement to give it it’s own unique space.

It’s easy to get more use out of your basement creatively. As long as your basement is dry, it’s not expensive to turn it into a space you can enjoy.    If you’re looking for ideas, check out there Pinterest images for some inspiration!

Nusite Group is a Toronto based basement waterproofing and foundation specialty company, we help get your basement ready so it can be finished for years of family enjoyment.  Contact us today to learn more about how we can help create get your damp, cramped basement into a fully functional living space.

 

Can I Install Radiant Heating In My Basement?

 

If you’re thinking about renovating your basement and are thinking about adding radiant heating to your flooring, then read on.  Not only is radiant heat possible for your basement floor, it can turn a cold, damp basement into the main gathering place for your home.

We’ve been renovating basements in Toronto and the surrounding GTA for over 30 years.  We’ve also installed several radiant heating floor systems as part of converting damp basements into full height, finished basements.

In-floor radiant basement heating is based on the principle that the amount of energy required to maintain the existing temperature is low, when compared to that required to raise it. In a nutshell, the system comprises two main components. The first part is a network of flexible tubing around which the concrete slab is poured. The second is a hydronic pump that forces heated liquid through this piping to create a warming effect.

 

When to Install Basement Radiant Heating

A hydronic basement heater is an efficient way to keep a basement comfortably warm, especially as heat eventually transfers to the entire structure if it is left ticking over. However, it is not recommended for drying out a damp basement despite what some salespeople may say. This is because it does not prevent moisture entering the structure, and gradually degrading it.

Manifestly, the preferred solution is to cast the radiant piping into the slab at the time of original construction. Should you decide to retrofit the system, there are two possibilities, though not as ideal as installing it with a new floor:

  • Chop up the floor slab, compact the rubble, cover it with a layer of sand and cast a fresh reinforced concrete floor with integral, radiant system.

 

  • Add an above-floor grid covered over by a false floor. However, this option is not integral with the structure and consequently less energy-effective.

Convenient Energy Sources

Almost any energy source can be used to heat the liquid and power the pump that circulates it. Common solutions include coal, electricity, a heat pump, natural gas, oil, propane, solar energy, and wood. Factors influencing the final choice incorporate local building codes, general safety considerations, architectural constraints, the level of ambient temperature desired, and, of course, the homeowner’s budget.

 

Why You Should Consider Radiant Heating in Your Basement

Assuming that you have in mind to keep your basement warm – as opposed to drying it out which is counterproductive for reasons mentioned – then in-floor radiant heating has a number of significant advantages as follows:

  • It is economic to install and operate, especially when fitted during the construction phase.

 

  • It is gentle to the environment as it produces less greenhouse gases and can be fired by renewable energy.

 

  • It is unusually quiet as does not rely on electric fans, rattling ductwork and hammering pipes.

 

  • It is exceptionally clean and healthy as it is totally concealed and releases no pollutants to the air.

 

  • Being ideally integrated with the floor slab, it does not rob your basement of precious headroom.

In Conclusion, is Radiant Heating a Good Idea?

Anything that adds value to your home in a cost-effective manner is an investment worth considering. This is especially true if it converts a chilly basement into useful living space. If you plan on creating a finished basement that will be a hub for the family, then consider adding radiant heating during your renovations.

 

Beware Of Dangers That Lurk In Your Basement

Finished Basement Family Room Toronto

With the housing market boom going on in Toronto, homeowners are trying to make the most of the living space they have.  One of the biggest opportunities for additional living space is down in the basement.

Most basements in Toronto were not originally designed to be used as living space and can be dark, wet and cramped with the utilities that service the home.

Unfortunately, a home’s basement can often be a breeding ground for problems such as mold, radon, carbon monoxide from faulty HVACs, water-borne bacteria, and hazards caused by electrical wires being exposed to water. Most homeowners may be familiar with most of these problems, but radon could be something they aren’t too familiar with.

Below is a list of some common basement issues we come across, which should all be inspected before considering turning your basement into a living space.

Radon
Radon is basically a type of dangerous as which is caused by radiation. Radon is tasteless, colourless and odourless, making it hard to detect. It’s created by the decay of radioactive minerals or uranium which can be found in the earth’s crust. It’s harmless if it is able to disperse into the atmosphere, but creates a problem if there’s a home or some other type of structure in the way. In this case, the radon can enter a basement through the soil and will begin to accumulate. A cement basement floor will help fight it off as long as it doesn’t have any cracks and is nonporous and solid. But radon can enter through a drainage system or water sump hole and then rise through a home via the heating ducts.

Radon can also possibly be emitted through things such as fireplaces, stone foundations, wood, concrete, wallboard and even water supplies via deep wells. Radon gas is a health risk if breathed in since it can damage the lungs and cause cancer. This is the reason homeowners should have a radon-detection-kit in their house or have a professional contractor inspect the home. The kit consists of a charcoal-filled canister which positioned in the home’s lowest living level or basement and in a still area, away from windows and doors. After a specified period of time the test kit is delivered to the manufacturer and it will be evaluated for the results.

Radon levels in a home can be lowered via a variety of methods and costs. The method used will depend on the type of soil around the home, the design of the building and level of radon in the air. The best solution is to seal entrance points to keep radon out. This means caulking floor cracks, sealing drains, waterproofing basement floors and walls, covering up bare crawlspace floors and capping sump-pump holes. Basically, any type of method which is used to lower the level of moisture in a basement can be effective when trying to lower the levels of radon.

Mold, Mildew and Fungus
Most homeowners are aware of the damage that mold and fungus can do to a home as well as the health risks they present. Most molds aren’t toxic, but can produce mycotoxins which can cause health and respiratory problems if you’re exposed to them. Mold spores are often absorbed through the skin or inhaled while fungal infections can originate inside the lungs or on the skin. The elderly and infants are typically more susceptible to mold, mildew and fungus health risks. Some types of mold found in basements care more dangerous and toxic such as black molds and these can cause pulmonary hemosiderosis, which is a rare lung disease which causes internal bleeding.

Mold is typically caused by flooding, moisture or condensation in the basement along with high humidity and can often go unnoticed. It usually starts in the insulation, carpeting, piping, floor, vents, ducts, furniture, the ceiling, wallpaper, wood or drywall. If your basement has been flooded it’s recommended that you contact a professional waterproofing company to have it inspected. You may need to have any wet materials removed such as drywall. Moisture can also enter a basement through leaking pipes and cracks in the floor or walls. You may realize you have mold in the basement as it usually smells musty and stagnant. If you suspect you have mold, but can’t find a sign of it, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a waterproofing company.

Carbon Monoxide
Another odourless, tasteless, and colorless gas is carbon monoxide, and this can prove to be fatal if it gets into your home. This is why it’s imperative you have carbon monoxide alarms installed. In fact, in many areas of the world it’s the law. Carbon monoxide is a by-product of fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil, propane, and wood and is created in appliances such as stoves, furnaces, and gas fireplaces (electric fireplaces are a good alternative). It can cause flu-like symptoms, but be deadly if it escapes into your home while you’re sleeping. Make sure a carbon monoxide alarm isn’t placed next to a basement furnace.

The alarms should be located in the living areas and close to bedrooms since the gas travels through vents and ductwork. It’s important to have your gas appliances inspected regularly by a licensed HVAC company to make sure they aren’t faulty and leaking carbon monoxide. They need to be vented properly and unblocked. Chimneys and fireplaces also need to be free of any blockage so the air can escape. Also, don’t forget to test your alarms on a regular basis too.

Electrical Wiring
It’s important that all electrical wiring in the basement and anywhere else for that matter be protected from water. Electricity and water don’t mix and can result in fire and other damage. If your home has ever been flooded or subject to any type of water damage you should have all of the electrical wiring and equipment in those locations properly inspected. Any water-damaged wiring and/or equipment should be repaired or replaced immediately. One way to make sure you aren’t subject to any electrical damage is to have your basement properly waterproofed.

Nusite Group is a Toronto waterproofing and foundation repair company that has been serving Toronto for over 30 years.  We provide free, in-home inspections and estimates, schedule your today.

Creating a Livable Basement in Toronto

Turning your unused basement into a livable space is a popular way to improve the value of your home. It lets you create more living space without expanding and can even be a good way to generate a passive income if it is professionally done.

If you do not want to leave your home, you can’t expand out or you face other building or zoning restrictions, a basement development is a good option.

Multiple Uses

A basement renovation can include an in-law suite for an aging family member or a completely separate apartment that you can rent out for extra revenue. Fixing up that musty basement may seem like a no brainer it is important that it is done correctly. The lower level of your home is one that is the most susceptible to moisture so water and moisture management are vital when you are planning your basement finish. Professionals estimate basement renovations will fetch no less than 70% and as much as 120% on your money. A proper refit includes a mold-free, fire rated and waterproof basement system.

Starting Basement Renovations

Renovating your basement makes a lot of sense. Insulating with a high R-value material makes your home more energy efficient. All of the water piping, heating ducts and electrical conduit already exists. Plus, you don’t have to evacuate your home because of dust and construction as it is all on the lower level.

Major Basement Renovations May Require Professional Help

An experienced contractor in the industry decides whether the foundation needs reinforcement and how much time is realistic for the project if you decide to lower your basement. Do-it-yourself planners often underestimate how much time a lower level renovation will take or the extent of the work. Renovations that require excavation and an underpinning of the foundation require engineering plans. Clearly, mussing with the structure that supports your home is not a good idea unless you want to see cracks in plaster and door frames out of alignment. Read the fine print in your contract and be certain that you know what your homeowner’s insurance covers if there are problems.

Despite the inconvenience of any renovation, many homeowners find it is worth it. Once completed, you have a fresh, clean, bright usable space and a property worth more than when you began. If you are in a situation where every square inch counts, basement development is a good investment. You can use it for yourself and then use it for resale. That area with raw concrete floors and poor lighting that you never used is transformed into a nice space that is used a lot.

You should make a list of your “must-haves” and talk out your ideas before you ask for quotes. Be sure you use certified professional basement contractors with a long track record in the industry. Get multiple quotes, but don’t always look at the ones with the lowest price tag, especially if you will be making structural changes.

When it comes to renovations, paying a little more often means you are getting quality work. Ask for references and talk to others who have used the contractor’s services, check with the Better Business Bureau and search the internet for reviews. Home renovations can be stressful at the best of times. Reduce the chance of problems by using a professional who can get the job done quickly and correctly.