Cellar Conversion Portrush Northern Ireland (BT56): An effective way to generate useable living space in your property in Portrush without having to resort to converting a loft or building an extension, is to turn that inhospitable, dark space beneath your home into bright and airy room with a cellar conversion. Whether you would like to use the extra space as a study, games room, home gym or even turn it into a separate flat, a cellar conversion brings functional space nearer to the living area of your house than a loft conversion can do.
According to the property agents Savills, a converted basement (or cellar) can also add anywhere between 10-15% to the market price of your property. If you have already converted your loft to cope with your growing family, a basement conversion allows you to create much needed additional family living space.

Before you start any cellar conversion project, you need to ask yourself these questions: 1. What work is necessary to convert your cellar? 2. What precisely is your purpose for creating the additional space with the conversion? 3. How can you successfully pick out a building company that you can count on to do a top quality basement conversion in Portrush? 4. What kind of expense is involved and what positive advantages can be attained from a basement conversion?
Why Choose a Cellar Conversion in Portrush?
In contrast to building extensions and loft conversions, a basement conversion does not normally need planning permission if you are just turning it into a useable living area, but if you have to do any major construction works for instance lowering the level of the floor you need to ask your local authorities exactly what your options are. There are some different rules if your property shares a party wall with a neighbour, is listed or is in a conservation area, however in most cases you are free to utilise the area as a living area with few restrictions.

The ability to make full use of invaluable living space in their property is the number one reason many folks in Portrush aim to have a cellar or basement conversion. This is especially true where living space is restricted such as in some parts of Portrush. A basement conversion can also be employed as a way to earn extra income by turning that largely unused space into a self contained apartment and renting it out.
The truth is the things you can do with a cellar conversion are limited only by your imagination.....and your budget of course. In Portrush games rooms, instant pubs and home cinemas are favoured choices for the use of a cellar conversion, to provide a comfortable space for entertaining family and friends. If you happen to be a home worker a basement conversion can become the perfect home office by providing you with a custom-built area where you're much less inclined to be disturbed by kids and family.
What is Involved?
As already mentioned, planning permission may not be needed in many instances, however you will have to get Building Regulations consent. These Building Regulations, which have to be followed by your construction contractor, will ensure that the cellar conversion satisfies all the necessary construction guidelines and health and safety laws. These rules and regulations will be handled as an integral part of the construction process by your Portrush cellar conversion specialists.

It doesn't matter if your basement doesn't seem to be damp nor has any sign of mould; you'll still have to get an appropriate cementitious tanking or damp proof membrane put in to provide a dry, watertight area suitable for conversion. Any damp proofing technique that you elect to use must comply with the BS8102 recommendations which your Portrush cellar conversion specialist must follow. In the event that the membrane fails at some time down the road then a trusted contractor should be willing to offer an insurance backed guarantee of their work, and give you the peace of mind you require.
The lighting, floor coverings, electrical installations, water supply, ventilation, insulation and heating system will probably all need to be installed or upgraded. Growing in popularity is under-floor heating which distributes heat uniformly around the area and is really efficient in this setting. It requires very little upkeep once it is installed and is a hidden sort of heating, which is an extra space saving bonus.
Electrical rewiring should be done by a qualified electrician. Try to use recessed (sunken) lighting systems to reduce the worry about height problems, and with a variety of different low cost Led lamps avaiable for purchase, your basement can feel bright and airy even where natural light is lacking.
Insulation and ventilation are two vital issues that must be discussed from the design stage. Potential dampness and cold spots can occur if your basement conversion is not adequately insulated. In addition poor ventilation can lead to complications, not only from stale air, but also by encouraging increased humidity which also is a major concern where dampness is involved.
Picking a Cellar Conversion Company in Portrush
As with all major building projects, it is a good idea to get more than one estimate to allow you the chance to evaluate prices from different contractors in Portrush. Ask to see relevant trade membership and accreditation certificates, if you have any doubts about their expertise or workmanship.

An initial quote may be provided after a site survey for a basic cellar conversion with damp proofing, flooring and access measures being evaluated. Follow up discussions with the builders should look to provide clarification about your specific requirements, for instance increasing the height of your cellar by the excavating of the existing floor, or the installation of a kitchen or toilet in a separate room.
You will sign off on a final price with an exact quotation for all work to be undertaken including all of the appropriate documents pertaining to the Portrush area for the building regulation applications, planning laws and party wall agreements. It is also better if it is broken down into independent parts of the overall conversion project so you can get a better perception of the final price.
A decent contractor should be able to offer advice and guidance on all these matters and suggest ways to improve natural light to brighten the conversion by opening up staircases or the installation of light wells. This is also the best time to speak to a qualified electrician regarding the installation of extra wiring for lighting, sockets, computing and entertainment.
If your access to the basement is restricted it may have to be modified depending on what you have planned for your conversion. It is pointless to plan for a fully equipped bar, snooker room or gymnasium if you can just about manage to get down a narrow stairway whilst carrying a cup of coffee.

It is obvious that whatever you plan to convert your basement into, you will need it to remain warm and dry in winter and summer. For this to happen you need your conversion specialist to be certified and endorsed by accreditation and membership to professional trade associations.
Try to look for Portrush cellar conversion companies that are members of the FMB (Federation of Master Builders) and if you are at all doubtful you can ask the FMB to check if they are actually on their list of approved members. Another excellent way to check out a building company's reliability is to find out if it's included on the Trustmark website. TrustMark is a helpful scheme that enjoys the full support of the government and was created by Trading Standards.
Happily the overwhelming majority of building companies who undertake basement conversions in the Portrush area are highly qualified and trustworthy construction workers. However it takes only a tiny minority of unscrupulous companies to generate distrust, and a reputable building company will acknowledge your concerns and help to allay your worries in any way possible.
Cellar Tanking
Before tanking your cellar in Portrush, you should make sure that all joints, loose materials and cracks are removed. Then you can apply a coating of breathable render. After applying a second coat, check the tanking for signs of seepage and you should add a salt inhibitor if necessary. These steps are essential when tanking your cellar to prevent future damp patches.
Tanking your basement in Portrush can be quite expensive. The cost depends on the dimensions of your basement, the type of substrate, and the level of damp. A reliable damp proofing specialist in Portrush will visit your house and provide a personalised quote. If you're unsure of whether tanking is the right thing your cellar, ask a damp specialist to determine its suitability.
When selecting a cellar tanking system, you should consider the depth of your cellar. For example, if your cellar is five metres deep, the hydrostatic pressure head will be significantly higher than if it is only two meters deep. This is why you need to choose the right covering for the depth of your cellar. You should also check the manufacturer's usage guidelines to determine the right covering for your cellar.
Tanking is a process where waterproof cement is applied to basement walls, floors and ceilings. It prevents water from seeping into these surfaces and makes them watertight permanently. Because cellar walls are normally below ground level, water from the surrounding ground can pass through the walls and carry salts to the basement. Therefore, the tanking slurry is created especially to combat these problems and create a water-resistant barrier. (Tags: Cellar Tanking Portrush, Basement Water Proofing Portrush, Basement Tanking Portrush, Cemetitious Tanking Portrush)
Small Cellar Conversions
Build a unique new living area, even if your existing cellar or basement is fairly small, by using a reputable Portrush cellar conversion company to plan, design and build it. It could be turned into a utility area and a place to keep your tumble dryer and washing machine out of sight and free up valuable storage space in your kitchen.
Maybe an office where you can work from home would be beneficial; even a small room can be used efficiently with purpose built furniture made and fitted by a professional Portrush company. Your little cellar could be turned into an oasis of peace, where you life's stresses and listen to music or enjoy a decent book. All that you really need is lighting, a comfy armchair, and a place to store your books or music. The usage and design alternatives are varied even for the smallest cellar space in Portrush.
Design Consultation and Planning
In the conversion of a basement into a habitable living space, it is vital to undergo design consultation and planning. Working with a professional designer can help you optimize the available space when creating a guest room, home office, or cosy den.
Identifying your needs and goals for the space you are creating is the initial step in design consultation and planning. You'll want to consider factors such as insulation, lighting and ventilation, as well as any necessary plumbing or electrical work.
To determine the ideal layout for the space, a designer can take into account features like access points, windows and ceiling height. By aiding in the selection of furnishings, finishes and fixtures, a designer can help you achieve a cohesive look and feel.
It is essential, during the planning stage, to take into account the project's timeline, budget, and any necessary permits and approvals. Transforming your cellar into a stunning and practical living area that caters to your every need is achievable with meticulous planning and professional guidance.
What are the most significant planning and design elements of a basement conversion?
The specific design and planning considerations for a basement conversion can vary depending on the project's specific goals and requirements, but some critical aspects might include:
- Ventilation: Maintaining air quality and preventing problems with condensation and moisture necessitate proper ventilation.
- Access points: The limited access points in basements make it essential to consider how best to utilise them to create secure and convenient entrances and exits.
- Permits and approvals: Commencing work might need permits and approvals from local authorities, depending on the project's scope.
- Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for reducing energy bills and maintaining a comfortable temperature.
- Elecrical and plumbing work: The addition of electrical or plumbing work in a basement conversion requires careful planning and execution to ensure adherence to building regulations and safety.
- Lighting: Creating a bright and inviting living space in a cellar is vital, so proper lighting is essential as these areas can often be dreary and dark.
- Layout: The layout of the basement should be carefully considered to make the most of the available space and ensure that the living area is practical and functional.
- Waterproofing: Proper waterproofing of a basement is crucial in preventing issues such as dampness, mould and water damage due to its typical location below ground level.
Proper consideration of the design and planning aspects is crucial for a successful cellar conversion in Portrush.
The Installation of Sump Pumps
The installation of a sump pump is crucial for safeguarding a home against water damage. A device known as a sump pump is utilised to remove excess water from crawl spaces and cellars. This is vital since an accumulation of water can bring about structural damage, mould growth, and various other related complications. The installation process generally entails digging a hole in the crawl space or cellar's lowest point and placing the sump pump within the pit. Next, the pump is connected to a discharge pipe that channels the water away from the house. Householders might choose to install a battery backup system to make certain that the pump continues to function during power cuts or other emergencies. It is important to have a professional install a sump pump to ensure it is properly placed and configured to effectively manage water in the home. Overall, sump pump installation is a worthwhile investment in protecting a home from water damage.
Basement/Cellar Conversion Surveys

Many households in Portrush will think about converting their cellar or basement into additional living space at some time. You will need to have a professional survey completed to make sure your particular basement is suitable for conversion.
A below-ground constructions qualified surveyor will consider the planned usage of the new space while carrying out the survey. This will provide the surveyor with a perception of what systems must be put in place to accommodate your requirements.
There will be a detailed inspection of wall, floor and ceiling construction, as well as making an allowance for the demands for drainage, electricity and ventilation. Building regulations and British Standards requirements specifically target basement conversions, and your certified surveyor will deal with each stipulation that is relevant. These are going to include fire escapes, damp proofing and ceiling height, and if there are any party wall agreements that need consideration. If you need a cellar conversion survey in Portrush, there are several accredited surveyors in the region who'll be able to undertake this for you. (Tags: Cellar Conversion Surveys Portrush, Cellar Survey Portrush, Basement Conversion Surveys Portrush).
Planning Permission for Basement Conversions

If you already have a basement below your house in Portrush, and purely want to change it from a dark, damp storage room into a functional living space, you'll not need planning permission from your local authority, since it's considered as "change of use". If your current cellar space does not have enough head room to accomplish what you want with it, you'll need to excavate the floor, in which case planning permission will probably be required, as you're increasing the volume of the property. This type of planning application will in most cases be granted, assuming that you're not transforming your home's exterior to any significant extent. Your chosen basement conversion company in Portrush should be able to get this information for you, or you could speak to your local council planning office.
Waterproofing Basements Portrush

Waterproofing is by far the most critical thing to think about when you are planning to carry out a cellar conversion. You surely do not want to invest all that money remodeling your basement or cellar, only to find that the space created is damp and mouldy. This is precisely why you need to locate a reputable cellar conversion specialist in Portrush to carry out the work. When you're looking to waterproof an underground cellar, there are basically two ways that you can do it. The incursion of water into your cellar can either be redirected into a cavity through the use of waterproof membranes, whence it is silently pumped from the building, or it can be checked by cementitious tanking, applied in the form of a wet slurry. cellar waterproofing services are also available in Ballybogey, Mascosquin, Articlave, Downhill, Dunseverick, Bushmills, Dervock, Castlerock, Aghadowey, Portballintrae, and in Portrush itself. (Tags: Waterproofing Basements Portrush, Cellar Waterproofing Portrush, Basement Waterproofing Portrush)
Basement Excavation Portrush
The lower levels of a building are dug and expanded through basement excavation to extend an existing basement space or create a new one. Utilizing a complex construction procedure, property value is increased, and living or storage areas see expansion. Handling the excavation, competent specialists ensure structural integrity, effective support systems and waterproofing. Valuable opportunities arise from basement excavations offer, enabling the transformation of underutilised spaces into functional and habitable areas, ultimately enhancing the property's utility and appeal. A successful basement excavation project necessitates careful planning and the strict observance of safety standards. (96102)

Other Useful Services and Trades in Portrush Northern Ireland: Needless to say, whenever you are doing home renovations in Portrush, Northern Ireland, you'll probably need all sorts of different tradesmen and along with a basement conversion specialist in Portrush, Northern Ireland, you may additionally need cellar waterproofing in Portrush, a carpenter in Portrush, loft conversion in Portrush, cellar surveys in Portrush, a property extension in Portrush, a renderer in Portrush, SKIP HIRE in Portrush, damp proofing in Portrush, a plumber in Portrush, a bricklayer in Portrush, a handyman in Portrush, black mould removal in Portrush, timber preservation in Portrush, basement flooding solutions in Portrush, condensation control in Portrush, a painter & decorator in Portrush, an electrician in Portrush, a building contractor in Portrush, and other different Portrush tradesmen.
Cellar Conversion Near Portrush
Also find: Articlave cellar conversion, Mascosquin cellar conversion, Castlerock cellar conversion, Downhill cellar conversion, Bushmills cellar conversion, Dunseverick cellar conversion, Portballintrae cellar conversion, Ballybogey cellar conversion, Aghadowey cellar conversion, Dervock cellar conversion and more.
Cellar Conversion Tasks Portrush

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