A basement renovation is one of the best ways to add usable space and increase your property value. But without the right planning and experience, it can quickly turn into a costly headache.
At Mile High Renovation, we’ve helped countless Colorado homeowners avoid common basement remodeling mistakes. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent issues we see.
The mistake: Some homeowners try to save time or money by skipping the permit process.
Why it’s a problem: Unpermitted work can lead to fines, safety issues, failed inspections, and problems when selling your home. It might even void your homeowner’s insurance if something goes wrong.
How to avoid it: Always check with your city or county before starting. Whether you're in Denver, Aurora, or Littleton, most basement remodels require permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural changes. Or let your contractor handle it , we take care of permitting for all Mile High Renovation projects.
The mistake: Renovating without properly addressing moisture or waterproofing issues.
Why it’s a problem: Colorado basements are prone to moisture, especially after snowmelt or heavy rains. Skipping waterproofing can lead to mold, mildew, and long-term damage to your investment.
How to avoid it: Always check for signs of leaks or water intrusion before remodeling. Install proper drainage, sump pumps, or vapor barriers if needed. A moisture test is always worth it.
The mistake: Basements are naturally darker, and many homeowners don’t plan adequate lighting.
Why it’s a problem: A dim, shadowy basement feels small and unwelcoming, even if it’s beautifully finished.
How to avoid it: Use a mix of recessed lighting, floor and table lamps, and natural light if available (like egress windows). Light-colored paint, ceilings, and flooring also help brighten the space.
The mistake: Underestimating how much power you’ll need.
Why it’s a problem: You might end up with extension cords all over, or even trip your breakers when using multiple devices.
How to avoid it: Work with a licensed electrician to design a layout that matches your usage, especially if you're adding a home theater, home office, or gym to your basement.
The mistake: Adding a bedroom without an egress window.
Why it’s a problem: Colorado building code requires a legal egress (a window large enough for emergency exit) in all basement bedrooms. Skipping this makes the room illegal and unsafe.
How to avoid it: Plan for egress from the start. We help homeowners design safe, code-compliant basement bedrooms with beautiful, functional egress windows.
The mistake: Forgetting to factor in ceiling height, ductwork, or structural beams.
Why it’s a problem: The space may feel cramped, or you might lose valuable headroom to utilities and vents.
How to avoid it: Design the layout carefully. Drop ceilings, strategic framing, or rerouting ductwork can all help you maximize space and comfort.
The mistake: Using standard drywall or carpet not made for below-grade conditions.
Why it’s a problem: Basements require materials that resist moisture and mold. Regular materials may warp or break down quickly.
How to avoid it: Use mold-resistant drywall, waterproof flooring (like vinyl planks), and moisture-tolerant insulation. Our team only uses materials made to last in basement environments.
The mistake: Tackling everything yourself without the right skills or tools.
Why it’s a problem: DIY jobs often lead to hidden issues that are expensive to fix later, especially with electrical, plumbing, or structural changes.
How to avoid it: Hire licensed professionals or consult with a trusted contractor like Mile High Renovation. We help you avoid costly mistakes and save time.
We’ve seen it all, and fixed it all. Our team helps Colorado homeowners design smart, durable, and beautiful basement spaces while avoiding the pitfalls that ruin so many remodels.
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