The hot, humid days of summer are passing and you’re emotionally gearing up for the frigid winter months ahead. It’s safe to say that you’ll soon be spending a majority of your time indoors.
If you’ve been waiting to pull the trigger on finishing your basement, here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t wait until snow falls or flowers bloom to do so.
Contractors’ schedules are more open
During the summer, contractors are busy building decks, patios, and sunrooms on the coattails of tax refunds or the vacancy of family vacations. Their schedules are usually packed from April to August.
Contractors welcome more work during the slower fall months and scheduling flexibility is typically greater. Because every home remodeling project has varying lead times, it’s important to schedule with your contractor months in advance to ensure your project isn’t pushed too far into the freezing weather.
Hibernation Station
The earth surrounding your basement acts as insulation, keeping it “cool” in the summer and “warm” in the winter. In reality, most stay a consistent 50-60℉ year-round remaining warmer or cooler than the outside temperature.
Finishing a basement with insulation and drywall adds to effect creating a naturally warm place for game rooms, home theaters, or bars without adding to your bills. Completing this before the wily winter weather provides you with extra space to spread out while the whole family is indoors.
Prepared for the holidays
Assuming you allow ample lead time for your project, finishing your basement in the fall increases the likelihood the project will be completed before the winter holiday season.
Though each project is different, the typical basement finish takes 4-6 weeks. If you begin in September or early November, you’ll have a new functional space for hosting family. Thanksgiving dinner at your place?
Moisture
Many homeowners are wary about finishing their basement due to excess moisture, worried it may damage new construction and furniture. Finishing your basement after the rainy days of late summer and before the threat of melting ice, gives contractors a chance to dry, seal, and dehumidify the space.
A reputable contractor will survey and counsel the moisture control of your space before construction begins.
Selling Your Home
If you’re preparing to sell your home next year, don’t wait until the weather is warm to start your basement refinish. According to a study synthesized by Forbes, the best month to sell your home is May. If you wait until May to begin your basement refinish, it will push your sale date later into the summer as the market is slowing down.
Finishing your basement in the fall gives you time to paint, furnish, and stage your space before buyers hit the market for their dream home. Not to mention, finished basements add value to your home with a 70 percent payback, making it one of the most financial savvy investments.
Don’t Fall Short
Between contractor availability, holiday hosting, and prime time selling, fall is the best time to finish your basement. Don’t wait for the chirping of birds to get started on your project.
