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You technically can paint wires in a basement ceiling, but there are several important safety and code considerations. It's safe to paint non-metallic sheathed cable as long as the labeling remains visible. You can also paint low-voltage wires and conduit and junction boxes to help them blend into your basement. 

However, you should not paint damaged or deteriorated wiring is a fire hazard because it poses a fire hazard. The same goes for painting over high-heat wires that connect to heat-generating appliances or systems. Be sure to avoid painting multiple coats onto any wires, as that traps heat and poses fire risks.

Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.

Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.

Adding an extension or addition to your home costs more than a loft conversion in all but the rarest cases where the home's structural integrity is lacking. Because a home addition requires a new foundation section or significant structural upgrades to handle a cantilevered portion, the cost compared to almost any loft conversion is significantly greater for the same square footage.

Walkout basements cost more than other kinds of basements, and can also increase your risk of leaks as well as a loss of insulation, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. Improperly installed walkout basements may lead to structural issues with your foundation, so ensure you’re working with a contractor who has extensive experience with this kind of basement.