Basements are one of the most diverse parts of a home, and they can be an extension of your living area, a place to do laundry or storage spaces. However, in Oregon, the climate can be damp and humid, increasing the risk of water damage and mold growth in homes. Heavy rainfall and flooding can also cause water damage to homes and buildings. So, if you are a homeowner in Oregon, you might be wondering if you need to worry about renovating your basement. Here are the main reasons why you should prioritize renovating your basement:

1. Prevent Health Issues

According to This Old House, wet basements occur in 60% of U.S. homes and 38% of basements run the risk of developing mold. If your basement is damp, it can affect the air quality throughout the entire home. Dampness can lead to a musty odor and aggravate respiratory problems like allergies and asthma. Furthermore, mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions, cause eye irritation, and lead to coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory symptoms. Prolonged exposure can also lead to more severe health issues, including lung infections and neurological problems. A basement renovation can improve the air quality in your home by addressing any dampness, improving ventilation, and adding air purifiers.

Water damage can have devastating consequences for a home. It weakens the structural integrity of the building, which can lead to more safety hazards. It damages the foundation of the house by causing cracks or other structural issues and can even cause electrical problems, which are extremely dangerous. Since the rest of your home rests upon your basement, any structural damage exposes you to major risks.

Following water damage, mold takes around 24–48 hours to form. If your basement has water damage, you must act quickly to prevent mold growth. A basement renovation can address the water damage, improve ventilation, and help prevent mold growth.

2. Increase Your Living Space

A renovation can transform your basement into an extra living space, where you can create a playroom, a home gym, a movie theater, or a guest bedroom. By expanding your space, you increase your home value and make it more appealing to potential home buyers, while also giving yourself extra space to enjoy your home. Once you decide to renovate your basements, the opportunities are endless. You’re guaranteed to find a use for the space that will benefit the whole family.

3. Boost Energy Efficiency

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, almost 90% of homes used air conditioning during the 2020 pandemic. If your basement isn’t properly insulated, it can cause heat to escape through your basement, making your air conditioning system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A renovation can address these issues and, in doing so, make your home more energy efficient. You’re sure to notice the difference on your next utility bill.

4. Create More Storage Space

If your basement serves as a storage space, a basement renovation can help you make the most of that space. With proper planning and organization, you can create functional storage that is easy to navigate and use. By improving your storage space, you can reduce clutter in the rest of your home and create a more organized living space.

When you prioritize a basement renovation, you also prioritize your overall health and well-being. It ensures you are safe from harmful bacteria or mold growing in your home, helps you save money on energy bills, and can even increase your home’s overall value.