Add space and value with a basement renovation e ective R20 R-value. Finally, nish with a smart membrane vapour control layer, tuck tape and moisture-resistant drywall. Don't forget to insulate basement header for maximum energy e ciency. 35 | Stouffville Sun-Tribune | Thursday, November 17, 2016 SOUNDPROOF I am a big proponent of soundproofing. It's easier to add during construction than realizing it's needed afterward and trying to remedy noise issues. Soundproo ng is the ultimate solution to maximize your basement's peace, quiet and privacy. Look for a product called Safe `n' Sound, also by Roxul. I like it because it's easy to install and adds important re and moisture resistance. One layer should su ce. Simply press into place between the studs or joists. Use resilient channels before adding dry wall. With the most important elements addressed to ensure proper performance, indoor air quality, and energy e ciency, you can start planning the nishes ooring, paint, furniture, décor and accessories. These will show o your personality and really make the space feel like home. You spend more time indoors during the winter months, so it's inevitable that you might start to feel a little cramped, especially if you live in a smaller home. If that's the case, you may consider nishing your basement to increase your square footage. It can de nitely add value and increase comfort, but there are a few things you'll want to do to ensure it's a sure re success: By Scott McGillivray Soundproo ng is the ultimate solution to maximize your basement's peace, quiet and privacy. ADDRESS MOISTURE I've seen a lot of poorly executed basement renos, where the contractor comes in, throws up some studs, tosses in some breglass batts and vapour barrier, then slaps on some drywall. Often, problems arise down the road. Inspecting the interior foundation and oors for moisture issues, water damage or mould problems and addressing areas of concern are vital to prevent the development of mold and mildew. Ensure that your job speci es moisture-resistant building materials for performance and durability of the living space. INSULATE WISELY First, you'll want to select a moistureresistant and vapour permeable insulation that can dry if exposed to moisture and retain its full R-value over time. I prefer stone wool insulation over breglass just for that reason. Canadian manufacturer Roxul makes a few products that are ideal for the job. I recommend installing Roxul Comfortboard 80 against the interior walls, before installing the studs. This continuous layer of insulation will prevent thermal bridging, reducing your energy consumption and heating costs. Build your studs against the Comfortboard 80, preferably with treated lumber, and ll the studs will R14 Comfortbatt to achieve a basement wall with an Scott McGillivray is host of the hit TV series Income Property on HGTV Canada, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Look for Scott in the upcoming series Moving the McGillivrays this fall on HGTV Canada or follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray. -- www.newscanada.com This Weekend Sat. & Sun., Nov. 19th & 20th · 2:00 - 4:00 pm Saturday 2:00 - 4:00 pm · Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 pm Interested in Advertising on this Page? Call your Sales Representative and book your ad today! 905-943-6100 Watch the deer in the woods at evening. Stunning Lebovic 4 br 3 bth. SS Appliances, stone tiles in hall & kitchen, hrdwd thru-out. Backs on to conservation & pond 2 walk-outs fresh paint, unspoiled bsmnt. Awaits your touch. 418 Hoover Park Mike Marsden mmars@rogers.com 416-917-0890 Sales Representative 261 Hoover park dr. You won't believe your eyes, total makeover open concept, 8' ft. island in kit, 4+1 br, 5 bath, new hrdwood thru-out, Spa baths 2 f.p. new stainless steel appliances far too much to list. Mike Marsden Sales Representative mmars@rogers.com yorkregion.com 416-917-0890