Things to Consider When Transforming a Basement into a Woodworking Shop
Posted on: 3 April 2017
If you want to have a woodworking shop in your home, you aren't regulated to using your garage if you have a walk-out basement. However, there are a few important things to consider before transforming a basement into a woodworking shop. Here are a few things to consider.
1. Noise
The most obvious thing to consider is the amount of noise your woodworking equipment will produce. Surely your family doesn't want to hear the grinding and squealing noises coming from the shop, especially if you plan on spending time working in the evenings. Fortunately, spray foam insulation products can provide a good sound barrier so your family can rest at night while you work.
To get the most out of the sound-proofing capabilities of spray foam insulation, you'll need to apply it to the ceilings and walls of the woodworking shop in the basement. Due to this, it's a good idea to use natural products so your family is not overwhelmed by any odors that are typically present following application of spray foam insulation that contains chemicals. Look for green spray foam insulation products. While there are do-it-yourself kits available, it's a good idea to hire a professional installer to avoid any potential problems with wiring and pipes that are typically found in basement ceilings.
Also, consider placing your woodworking equipment on anti-vibration pads and/or installing rubber feet to the equipment, which will help reduce noise by cutting down on vibrations created while using the equipment. Also, make sure to keep your blades sharp and perform regular maintenance on every piece of equipment, which will also help reduce the amount of noise you'll no doubt create.
2. Dampness of the basement
Basements are notorious for being damp, particularly during rainy season or when snow melts due to the amount of ground water that can infiltrate through the concrete foundation. Since dampness can affect wood and equipment, it's important to control the amount of moisture in your basement.
If your basement hasn't been waterproofed already, now would be a great time to have it done. Basement waterproofing can involve simply coating the concrete walls and flooring with a waterproofing sealant. If you choose to have spray foam insulation on the walls, be sure to coat the walls with waterproofing sealant before applying the insulation.
Another way to cut down on the dampness in the basement is to run a dehumidifier on an ongoing basis. A dehumidifier can be installed to drain directly into the basement floor drain or the sump pump pit. That way, you won't have to physically drain the dehumidifier. This will allow for constant use of the dehumidifier since most automatically shut off when their reservoirs are full.
3. Sawdust and dust
While working, there's no doubt you'll be creating sawdust and dust. Sawing wood can cause fine particles of dust to accumulate and linger in the air, which may cause problems with any mechanical systems that are housed in your basement, such as your furnace, not to mention health problems that could result from working in an enclosed area that is filled with dust.
Reduce your risks of sawdust and dust by installing an air filtration and dust collection system. This is particularly important if you plan on using wood that has been treated with chemicals and pesticides. Also, your spouse and other family members will thank you for reducing the amount of dust in the basement, particularly if they need to trek down to the basement on a daily basis to use the washer and dryer. You can find an air filtration and dust collection system designed specifically for woodworking shops at your local home improvement store.
For more information and assistance, contact services like SPRAY FOAM DISTRIBUTORS.
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