Should You Convert Your Cellar?

There are many advantages of converting a cellar into a usable room of the house. You’ve probably seen examples of cellar conversions and wondered if you would be able to transform that dingy space into a proper part of the home. Cellar conversions can be highly worthwhile if you carry them out correctly.

Why is a Cellar Conversion a Good Idea?

Compared to building an extension, converting an existing room is far cheaper as you only need to renovate the space rather than constructing an entirely new one. Converting your cellar increases your amount of usable living space without increasing the actual size of your house.

Converting your cellar can enable you to use space effectively that may otherwise be used only for storage, and improve the general comfort of your home by mitigating problems like damp or substandard insulation.

You can benefit financially, as a usable cellar can significantly increase your home’s resale value down the line. With a cellar converted into a livable space, you’re more likely to sell your house fast and for a good price. In fact, the extra profit made here can exceed the cost of the conversion in the first place.

Cellar Conversion Ideas

Converting your cellar gives you the opportunity to create a useful space that suits your needs. There are many popular cellar conversion ideas, including:

• An Entertainment Room: To create a great space for relaxing, consider installing a home theatre system or gaming area.
• A Rec Room: For a more social, active space, why not install a ping-pong, snooker, or table football table? Combined with a bar area, this can make for a great hang-out space.
• A Home Office: Isolated from the noise of the rest of the house, a converted cellar can be the perfect spot to work if you install a desk and computer.
• A Guest Room: If you want to have guests over but lack the space, converting your cellar can be the perfect solution.
• A Home Gym: Compared to other types of conversion, a home gym can be pretty straightforward — a few weights and yoga mats may be all you need!
• A Workshop or Hobby Room: A space for crafting, woodworking, painting, or other hobbies can be extremely fulfilling.

What You Need to Convert Your Cellar

Before you can successfully convert your cellar, you’ll need to have a few things in order. Thankfully, you don’t usually need planning permission to convert a cellar in the UK, unless you’re excavating to make a new or larger space. 

However, for the success of your conversion project (and to avoid costly repairs down the line), you’re probably best getting a professional assessment of the room’s structural integrity, and any signs of dampness or flooding that could cause issues.

Most cellars that haven’t yet been converted will need to have waterproofing and ventilation installed to keep the space dry and comfortable, and insulation added to keep it warm and energy-efficient. In fact, these are often recommended even if the cellar isn’t being fully converted into a living space, as they can reduce energy bills and the chance of mould elsewhere in the house.

Heating systems are a must too — you’ll probably want to install a storage heater if you want the space to be as warm as the rest of the home. Next comes the electrical wiring and lighting fixtures to keep the space bright and connected. Finally, you can start installing the furniture, fixtures, and decor that matches your intended use of the room.

Mistakes to Avoid

Unfortunately, there are some common pitfalls when carrying out a cellar conversion, and they can lead to serious issues and costs. 

Neglecting waterproofing and insulation is a common error, and one of the most damaging ones. Failing to adequately waterproof and insulate a cellar can lead to persistent damp that can cause mould, damage to possessions, or even damage to the house’s structural integrity.

Another mistake that’s easy to make is underestimating the costs involved in the conversion process. Remember to factor in materials, the cost of hiring any professionals needed, and any unexpected expenses (there are almost always at least a couple!).

Perhaps the most serious mistake that you can make is cutting corners on safety. Failing to install lighting, electrical wiring, and smoke detectors correctly can be extremely dangerous. If you’re not sure how to do these yourself, it’s best to call in professionals.

The Bottom Line

Cellar conversions are extremely popular projects for homeowners, with many potential benefits. However, there are obstacles that can sabotage a conversion project. If in doubt, consider using the services of trained professionals.