Base Finishing Tips

Some homeowners tend to overlook the potential that their foundations have. A basement can be more than just a place to store unwanted clothing from twenty years ago. It can even be more than a utility closet. With a little planning, preparation, and transformation, your basement can be transformed from a potentially nice “what could be” setting to a totally cool place.

clear space

To begin the transformation, you’ll first need to thoroughly clean all surfaces in your basement and use caulking to seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows. This thorough cleaning will prepare the base for finishing and permanent use.

inspect and repair

After you have cleaned the space, check the plumbing for water damage and leaks or drips in the pipes. If you find moisture, it’s best to call a professional to find its source and repair the problem.

• If water seeps into the basement from the outside, look closely for any small cracks, holes, or damage. If you find damage of any kind, repair it promptly and professionally seal and waterproof the foundation; this work will help prevent further damage and cost. Think of it this way, it’s easier to repair small cracks and holes than it is to repair the entire foundation.
• Some homeowners skip checking the grade of the ground outside their house to make sure it slopes slightly toward the outside of the house; this is done to prevent water from flowing into the foundations when it rains. It is important to repair any such problem before the basement is finished.
• Check the heating system to make sure it works well and meets standards. Also, be sure to ask a professional to estimate the cost of additional basement heating, if needed.
• Hire a licensed electrician to inspect all electrical connections for fire safety. This is very important for the safety of you, your family and your home. An electrician will suggest the best locations for outlets and light fixtures.
• Check the floor. Check floors to make sure they are level and remove all old flooring. If the floor is uneven, the best option is to level it with concrete.

plan the space

It is best to hire an architect or builder to design a floor plan for your basement, based on your personal preferences. The architect or builder will help take the guesswork out of placing walls, doors, and take care of those pesky measurements.

Once the plans are complete and the framing is installed, it’s time to insulate the room and exterior walls. Do not forget to insulate the ceiling with a fireproof insulation. Once the walls and ceiling are properly insulated, use drywall to cover the walls and ceiling. Using thicker gypsum board will act as a noise and fire barrier and will resist moisture longer than standard gypsum board.

Select and install Choice flooring

There are many options to choose from when installing flooring in your basement, but it’s best to use tile as it will last longer. Also, rugs have a tendency to attract and retain moisture, as hardwood floors bend and warp.

The tiles will resist water and humidity, and provide very easy cleaning. Add area rugs to the space if you’re looking to make the new living space warm and inviting. This will provide the level of comfort you are looking for while protecting your new living space from the effects of moisture and water damage.