Basement Heating Solutions to Keep You Toasty

No matter how beautiful your basement looks, it might go unused if it’s too chilly to enjoy. Are you ready to learn how to keep the basement warm? You’ll want to put in place a combination of heating solutions so it’s comfortable enough to use in any season. Basements are usually cold because heat rises. Foundation walls located at or below grade level can be up to 15 degrees cooler than rooms above grade level. Here at Pottery Barn, we understand the important of designing warm spaces. Here, we’ll share some of our favorite basement heating ideas so you can learn how to stay cozy in your lower level.

 

Plug Up Cracks

Even if you have a finished basement, drywall cracks happen. It’s important to fix cracks in drywall in the basement. If there are any areas that remain uninsulated or thinly insulated, the cold air may find its way into the basement through these damaged areas.

 

Cover the Windows

Do you have small basement windows? Consider window treatments. Covering these light sources with drapery is well worth it to eliminate cold drafts. Consider thick, thermal curtains to cover the windows. Double up on your window warmth, too. Add clear window insulation film to all the openings. This gives them an airtight seal. If you’re wondering about blocking the bit of natural light from coming into your basement, brighten it up with lighting. You can use the same tricks you’d use to illuminate your kitchen.

 

Capture the Heat

Your bed is warm and cozy, right? Take that concept of how to make a warm bed into the basement. Layer your seating with lots of things to wrap yourself in to capture body heat. Faux fur, microfiber and chunky knit throws are ideal. Keep a heated blanket down there, too, for that extra boost of warmth.

 

The key to adding any fabrics into the basement is to make sure they’re man-made. Inorganic materials are less likely to stay wet if they get damp. This is especially important to consider when it comes to what you put on the floor of your basement.

 

Warm Your Toes

Typically, an uninsulated basement floor sits right on the cold ground. One easy solution is to cover the cement flooring with carpet or rugs. The floor covering won’t necessarily add heat to the room. But it does help to contain the heat that’s already in the space. Basements are naturally prone to flooding, leaks and dampness, even when they’re incredibly dry. So, it’s best to have a low-pile carpet that doesn’t absorb liquids or wetness easily. It should also dry quickly. As mentioned, it’s best to choose a rug of man-made materials to avoid mildew issues. That way, even after someone’s spilled beverage is cleaned up and dried, there’s not a high risk of mold and mildew building up under the floor coverings. And don’t forget the right rug pad for extra protection and comfort!

 

Focus the Heat

Today’s portable space heaters aren’t the large, industrial-style models they used to be. They’re safer and more efficient than ever before. But they’re still temporary sources of heat that require your watchful eye. A space heater warms up smaller spaces. If you have multiple rooms in the basement, such as a gym, laundry room or bathroom, one heater for each area may be the best solution. Just make sure everyone remembers to shut the heaters off when they leave. To be extra safe, look for energy-efficient heaters with advanced safety features like tip-over alarms, child-resistant controls and an overheat shutoff.

 

For finished spaces, a larger electric fireplace style heater adds a traditional look to the room. Smaller, rolling cart-style models with faux wood cases also work in finished spaces. They’re cool to the touch on the outside, making them safer for kids to be near. Space heating may be an economical solution for your basement instead of installing a separate heating system.

 

If you’re willing to call in the electrician and plumber, consider a couple of ideas that are a bit more permanent. You might choose cove heaters that hang high on the wall near the ceiling and work with a thermostat. Heated floors (if possible) or hanging plug-in or hardwired radiant heated panels on the wall or the ceiling work well, too. 

 

With your cozy, double-duty decor in place, you’re ready to settle down and relax in warmth during those chilly seasons.