The Easy DIY Solution That Enhances The Look Of Ugly Steel Basement Support Beams

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Basements oftentimes get a bad rap. Many people picture them as dingy, cluttered spaces that can have an unpleasant or musty odor. That's not always the case, though. Lots of homeowners make use of all the extra square footage a basement provides, turning theirs into game rooms, bedrooms, or even tiny apartments for relatives. One way to add more of a "cozy vibe" to this area is by addressing the ugly basement support beams. These beams obviously serve an important purpose, so there's no getting around having them there. However, it's easy to give them a beautiful look if you're a fan of clever contact paper decorating hacks.

Covering basement support beams with peel and stick wallpaper or contact paper is simple, affordable, and can make a huge difference for the space's look. Since the paper comes in a wide variety of colors and designs, it's easy to find a roll that'll match the style of your basement. For example, if you prefer a rustic vibe, using a wood-grain-patterned paper would transform your unsightly metal support beams into gorgeous "wooden" beams. Products like Decotalk Wood Grain Contact Paper are both durable and straightforward to apply. Just make sure you measure your beams first, so you know exactly the right length and width you need to cover them. This will help you determine what size roll you need to purchase.

While there are many great basement remodeling ideas out there, this DIY is a simple one, only requiring scissors, a ladder, a measuring tape, a utility knife, and the adhesive wallpaper or contact paper. Many peel and stick products have a grid on the back, which helps with measuring for whatever project you're working on. Plus, the paper is removable, so it's ideal for renters or people who like to frequently redecorate their space. If you don't want a pattern like wood grain, there are other chic designs to revamp your support beams as well, such as brick, marble, and stone.

The first thing to do is cut the paper to the length you need for your beams, using the grid as a guide. Apply the paper a little at a time, smoothing it with a stiff straight edge, like an old credit card, to push out bubbles as you pull off the backing. Run a utility knife along corners where the support beam meets the wall, ceiling, and other surfaces to trim any excess paper. The project is easy enough to do alone, but having an extra set of hands could ensure it's done safely and correctly. If you end up with extra paper, consider covering other areas in your basement to help make everything flow. This type of paper can easily transform furniture, cabinets, and doors for a matching layout. For even more of an upgrade, you can add function and style to your basement support poles too. It might even become your favorite spot in the house!