Cellar Conversion Dover Kent (CT16): Turning a dark, dusty and unwelcome basement into an airy, bright living space is a great option for those folks looking to generate more space in their home without having to build an extension. Whether you wish to use the additional space as a games room, bar, home gym or even change it into a separate apartment, a cellar conversion brings functional living space nearer to the main areas of your home than a loft conversion can do.
It's also a relatively straightforward means by which to add extra value to your house; the property specialists Savills say that it can increase the value by up to around 15% to comparable properties in your neighbourhood. If you've already converted your loft to cope with your ever growing family, a basement conversion gives you an effective way to create much needed extra family living space.

Should you be considering doing a basement conversion make sure that you have asked yourself these important questions before commencing: 1. What precisely is your purpose for creating the added space with the conversion? 2. What work is necessary to do a conversion on your cellar or basement? 3. How do you locate a local Dover basement conversion company that's efficient and trustworthy? 4. Are the advantages of a basement conversion worth the costs that are associated with accomplishing it?
Why a Cellar Conversion in Dover?
Unlike building extensions and loft conversions, a basement conversion doesn't usually require planning permission if you are merely turning it into a useable living space, but if you have to do any major construction works for instance lowering the floor you should ask the local authorities exactly what is required. You will however have to check with the local authorities if you share a party wall (requires different regulations), if your building is listed or if you live in a conservation area.

One of the main reasons provided by householders in Dover for renovating an existing cellar or basement is to change the underused space into something practical. If like lots of other people in Dover you find space is restricted, this will be a top priority. If you do not really need the additional living space for you own use, a cellar conversion can easily be changed into a self contained flat to bring in welcome extra cash.
In truth the things you can do with a basement conversion are limited only by your own imagination.....and your budget. In Dover home cinemas, games rooms and bars are favourite choices for the use of a cellar conversion, to provide a welcome space to entertain family and mates. Another firm favourite, and perhaps more appealing given recent developments, is the building of a home office or study where you'll be able to break away from the stressful daily commute and benefit from a space in your house where you are much less liable to be interrupted while you work.
What is Involved?
Even if your cellar conversion doesn't require any planning permissions, there are a number of certificates and approvals needed from the Building Regulation authorities, to make sure everything is legal. This will ensure that your newly built living area follows all the Health & Safety laws and recommendations for ventilation, minimum ceiling heights, fire escapes, water sources, electrical wiring and damp proofing. Fortunately your Dover cellar conversion company will be able to take care of all of these regulations as part of the build process.

Even if there are no visible indications of damp or mould in your existing cellar, it will still need some form of damp proof membrane or cementitious tanking so that it stays dry and make it suitable for conversion. Any damp proofing that you choose to use should conform to the BS8102 guidelines which your Dover cellar conversion specialist is required to follow. A respectable builder will be able to offer an insurance supported guarantee for their workmanship, should the membrane ever fail.
The lights, electrical installations, insulation, heating system, water sources, flooring and ventilation will most likely all need to be upgraded or installed. Increasing in popularity for cellar and basement conversions in Dover is under-floor heating which spreads warmth uniformly around the area and is really efficient. This space saving heating method is hidden beneath your basement floor and requires little maintenance once it is installed.
Any sort of electrical installations must always be carried out by a competent electrician. Try to make use of sunken lighting fixtures to reduce concerns about height problems, and with a wide range of inexpensive LED light fittings currently available, your basement can feel bright and airy even in settings which are devoid of natural light.
Two crucial issues that your building contractor will will want to discuss with you are the best ways to provide adequate ventilation and insulation. Inadequate insulation can leave your cellar conversion with cold spots which can increase the potential for damp. Substandard ventilation can also result in a gradual increase in humidity which is likely to cause issues with damp and mould.
Choosing a Basement Conversion Company in Dover
The judicious approach is to acquire a minimum of 3 quotes from different contractors in Dover, to compare prices, service and guarantees for your basement conversion project. Ask to see relevant building trade membership and accreditation certificates, if you have any doubts about their experience.

An initial quote may be provided after a site survey for a standard cellar conversion with flooring, waterproofing and access considerations being evaluated. During discussions with your building contractor you will be able to add your personal specifications, i.e. you might require an area to be split up, have a bathroom or kitchen installed or to increase the ceiling height by excavating the pre-existing floor.
The final quotation should contain all required building regulation, party wall agreement and planning application paperwork relevant to the Dover area before any work is able to start. So as to have a better idea of the costs involved in each phase of the work, you should ensure that the final quote also gives a complete task-by-task breakdown of each element of the conversion projects.
A reputable company can offer recommendations to resolve all of your concerns including ways in which to introduce more natural daylight to your cellar conversion by opening up stairs or the use of light wells. This is also the time to confer with a fully qualified electrician regarding the installation of additional electrical wiring for plug sockets, lighting, computing and home entertainment.
If your access to the cellar has limitations it may have to be adapted subject to what uses you have in mind for your conversion. It is pointless planning for a fully equipped bar, gym or snooker room if you can barely manage to get down a flight of narrow stairs whilst carrying a cup of coffee.

Whatever you choose to do with your basement conversion you will need it to stay warm and dry in all weather conditions. Employing a professional cellar conversion contractor with membership, accreditation and guarantees from the construction and building trade associations will allow this to be accomplished and put your mind at rest.
Try to find Dover cellar conversion companies who are signed up members of the Federation of Master Builders and if you're in any doubt you can always ask the FMB if they're actually on their approved members list. You can verify how effectively a building company has performed in past times by visiting the highly respected TrustMark website and seeing the credibility figures it has accomplished. This is a Trading Standards run scheme and it's endorsed by the government.
There are plenty of honest, legitimate building companies in Dover who can help you convert a cellar or basement with the assistance of highly trained and qualified individuals within the building trade. A reliable conversion company understands the doubts of the general public, caused by a small minority of unethical "cowboys", and will do anything they can to confirm their trustworthiness in a friendly and responsible way.
Of course, these basement conversion services are not just aimed at homeowners who live in Dover itself, but may also be accessed by anyone from nearby places like River, Shepherdswell, Maxton, Swingate, St Margarets at Cliffe, Temple Ewell, Whitfield, West Hougham, Buckland, Capel le Ferne, Farthingloe, Guston, Church Hougham, Ringwould, Alkham, Tower Hamlets. Local Dover basement conversion specialists will most likely have the postcode CT16 and the phone code 01304. Checking this out can ensure you access locally based providers of cellar conversion. Dover homeowners can utilise these and many other building related services.
Home Cinema Conversions Dover
The notion of turning a cellar into a home cinema is a choice that's been growing more popular recently. If you love spending hours watching movies, soaps or box sets this might be the perfect choice for you. Since basements are typically dark due to the deficiency of natural daylight they are an ideal setting for a cinema. What's more, this will create some extra social space to your home and be a useful area where friends and family can gather together and hang out. (Tags: Home Entertainment Conversions Dover, Home Cinema Conversion Dover, Basement Home Cinemas Dover)
Small Cellar Conversions Dover
Even a small basement or cellar can be converted into a unique living area by a skilled designer, and an experienced Dover cellar conversion company will create the perfect room for your needs. Perhaps it could become a utility room and a place to keep your washing machine and tumble dryer hidden away and create valuable extra space in your kitchen.
Perhaps you could do with an area where you can work from home; even a little room can be used effectively as an office with custom-built furniture built and installed by a specialist company. A modest cellar could also be transformed into an oasis of tranquillity, where you can escape from the worry of work and daily life, enjoying a good book or listening to some relaxing music. With the addition of subtle lighting, comfortable seating and a storage unit you'll have everything you need to chill out and while away the hours. The options for a small cellar conversion in Dover are only limited by the extent of your imagination. (Tags: Small Basement Conversion Ideas Dover, Small Basement Conversions Dover, Small Basement Conversion Dover).
Cellar Tanking Dover
Before tanking your cellar in Dover, you should make sure that all loose material, mortar joints and cracks are removed. Then, apply a layer of breathable render. After applying a second coat, check the tanking for signs of seepage and add a salt inhibitor if necessary. These steps are essential to tank your cellar and prevent future damp patches.
Tanking your cellar in Dover can be expensive. The cost depends on the size of your cellar, the type of substrate, and the extent of damp. A professional damp expert in Dover will visit your property and provide a bespoke quote. If you're unsure of whether tanking is right for your cellar, ask a damp expert to assess its suitability.
Cellar tanking usually costs around £60 per square metre (2022). However, you can get materials at low prices and do the tanking yourself. It's important to get several quotes for the job to make sure you're getting the best deal. A good place to get a few quotes is through job comparison sites.
Tanking is a process where waterproof cement is applied to cellar ceilings, floors and walls. It prevents water from seeping into these surfaces and makes them permanently watertight. Because basement walls are frequently below ground level, water from the surrounding ground can permeate the walls and carry salts to the cellar. Therefore, the tanking slurry is created specifically to combat these problems and create a waterproof barrier. (Tags: Cemetitious Tanking Dover, Basement Tanking Dover, Cellar Tanking Dover, Cellar Water Proofing Dover)
Basement Conversion Tasks Dover

Your selected Dover basement conversion specialist should be able to help with most conversion related work, such as cellar surveys, basement damp proofing in Dover, basement surveys, damp proofing in Dover, cellar refurbishment, cellar plumbing, cellar conversion ideas Dover, basement remodeling, cellar remodeling, basement waterproofing, low ceiling basement conversion Dover, black mould removal in Dover, sump pumps, cellar waterproofing, condensation control, sprayed concrete, budget cellar conversion Dover, positive input ventilation (PIV), cementitious tanking, cellar conversion quotes Dover, cellar rendering Dover, budget basement conversion Dover, structural waterproofing, commercial basement conversions, basement electrics, woodworm treaments, cellar underpinning Dover and more. Listed are just some of the tasks that are performed by those doing cellar conversion. Dover specialists will keep you informed about their whole range of services.
More Advice and Guidance

To see how cellar refurbishment companies are marketing themselves on social websites, check this out. Watch a basic YouTube guide on basic waterproofing solutions for a basement conversion here. You should really visit Trustmark or the Federation of Master Builders, if you wish to conduct a search of trusted local cellar conversion companies in Dover. If you happen to be interested in reading up on basement conversion - our pick of the finest click here. If you'd like to read more on basements, you'll uncover details about drainage issues, basement culture and finishings, the different kinds of basement, the usage of cellars and basements and structural & design criteria, by visiting Wikipedia.
Basement Conversion Near Dover
Also find: Swingate basement conversion, Shepherdswell basement conversion, Alkham basement conversion, Capel le Ferne basement conversion, Farthingloe basement conversion, Maxton basement conversion, Whitfield basement conversion, Guston basement conversion, Buckland basement conversion, St Margarets at Cliffe basement conversion, Church Hougham basement conversion, West Hougham basement conversion, River basement conversion, Tower Hamlets basement conversion, Ringwould basement conversion, Temple Ewell cellar conversions and more. All of these places are served by companies doing cellar conversion. Dover home and property owners can get price quotes by going here.
Cellar Conversion Services Dover
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Cellar Conversion Around Dover: In Bewsbury Crescent, Station Road, Church Hill, Beech Green Close, St Giles Road, St Patricks Road, Cranleigh Drive, Byllan Road, Castle Hill Road, The Drove, The Droveway, Danes Court, Target Firs, Cannon Street, Crabble Lane, Downs Close, Adrian Street, Ash Close, Townwall Street, Siberts Close, Dour Street, Corunna Place, Bay Hill, Courtwood Villas, Chapel Lane, Channel View Road, Bowling Green Terrace, Buckland Avenue, as well as these local Dover postcodes: CT16 1RB, CT16 1RS, CT16 1AL, CT16 1LG, CT16 1PF, CT16 1AJ, CT16 1LZ, CT16 1HH, CT16 1GN, CT16 1EQ. people have just recently needed basement conversion work. These locations recently saw activity by experts in cellar conversion. Dover householders enjoyed reliable and top notch building services in every case.



More Kent Basement Conversion Experts: More Kent cellar conversion specialists: Herne Bay, Deal, Minster, Margate, Aylesford, Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone, Birchington-on-Sea, Canterbury, Sittingbourne, Cranbrook, Sandwich, Northfleet, Staplehurst, Sturry, East Malling, Broadstairs, Kingsnorth, Edenbridge, Folkestone, Wilmington, Westerham, New Romney, Gillingham, Lydd, Sheerness, Ramsgate, Meopham, Faversham, Dover, Southborough, Bearsted, Boxley, Pembury, Dartford, Hartley, Chatham, Gravesend, Biggin Hill, Sevenoaks, Paddock Wood, Ashford, Swanscombe, Snodland, Tenterden, Whitstable, Westgate-on-Sea, Tonbridge, Strood, West Kingsdown, Swanley and Rochester.
Dover Kent: Information about Dover, Kent can be seen here
Basement conversions in CT16 area, and dialling code 01304.
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