Toucan Basement Conversion in Rotherham Barn.
Recently the team here at Toucan Property Maintenance have been working on a stunning basement conversion in Kimberworth, close to Rotherham in South Yorkshire. From the originally unusable, damp and dark cellar the property owners now have a fully functioning and cosy playroom which has expanded the living space within their home.
Property extension below ground is now becoming an increasingly popular trend among home owners to add another floor to their living accommodation. Data recorded by Halifax claims planning applications for basement conversions increased by 183% between 2012 – 2016. This figure has increased further since. With the increasing costs associated with moving up the housing ladder these type of conversions have become more popular as a means to make more of the space available for families. Not only do the home owners benefit from a larger living space they also add value to their property should they look to sell in the future.
Completed Basement Conversion – Kimberworth, Rotherham
The Project
Over the course of this basement conversion, the Toucan team have fully waterproofed or “tanked” the external walls of the space, providing a barrier to the cold and damp conditions found in rooms under ground level. Tanking out a cellar is required to withstand external water pressures which surround the cellar called hydrostatic pressure. This pressure, is formed around a basement and can generate significant volume of pressure. Unless the tanking is very securely fixed to the substrate, it will probably fail. Hydrostatic pressure can force water through the tiniest fault in structures very rapidly, once a leak occurs it can be difficult to isolate and repair. A new concrete floor was also added to level off the room along with full damp proofing.
External View of Unearthed Windows
During the conversion, underground windows were unearthed by a small trench excavated at the side of the building. This now allows natural light into the converted cellar, as well as the capacity for a fresh air source to ventilate throughout. The team have also included a Positive Input Ventilation Unit (PIV) to prevent against future condensation. PIV systems transform stagnant air into a fresh, healthy and condensation free environment by supplying a constant supply of fresh filtered air to homes.
One of the final and most striking elements of this basement conversion was the discovery of the ceiling. Previously hidden, the original arched brickwork ceiling has now been fully restored to make a wonderful feature of this new living space. This gives a striking contrast to the newly damp proofed and plastered walls which give the room a welcoming feel. The unearthed and opened windows provide a source of natural light and fresh air to the space, removing the feel of being below ground level.
Arched Brickwork Ceiling in the Basement Conversion
The home owners now have a clean and safe environment to use as a family play area or a spare bedroom. Utilising a basement conversion has allowed this to stay close to existing living areas throughout the property, rather than loft conversions which are much more removed.
Your Home Improvement
If you would like to discuss the possibility of a basement conversion to your property in the South Yorkshire area, our team are always happy to help. Every project we undertake is fully bespoke and tailored to your requirements and available space. The scope of the project and the finished article are completely up to your specification of how you want your home to be. Contact Toucan Property Maintenance to find out how you could increase your living space, improve your home and add thousands to it’s value.