Are you looking to finish your basement but aren’t quite sure how to get started? Finishing a basement can be a big task, but it comes with big rewards.
The key to successfully finishing a basement is to have a plan in place before you get started. Laying out each step of your project will help you stay on task, and it’ll make it easier for your vision to come to life.
Check out this guide to learn everything you need to know about finishing a basement.
Prepare Your Basement
Before you launch into your project, you first need to get your basement ready. Here’s what you need to do:
Apply for a Permit: Most cities require you to have a permit to finish your basement. Contact your local building department to learn what permits you need to obtain and how to apply for them.
Buy the Right Tools: The tools you need to finish your basement will vary from project to project. Generally speaking though, you’ll need:
- Goggles
- Caulk guns
- Tape measure
- Nail guns
- Utility knives
- Earplugs
- Hammers
- Sawhorses
- Drill and bits
- Insulation adhesive
You’ll also need to decide on paint colors, wall materials, trim styles, ceiling style, and flooring type.
Get Rid of Dampness: Finishing a basement that’s still damp creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Use a dehumidifier or sump pump to get rid of humidity and standing water in your basement. If this doesn’t take care of the issue, hire a professional waterproofer.
Finish the Basement Walls
Once you’ve taken care of the basics, we recommend starting with your basement walls. Begin by installing insulation, and then frame the walls.
After you’ve framed the walls, you can install your utilities and mount the drywall. Finally, finish your basement wall by painting it the color of your choice.
Finish the Ceiling
After you’ve completed the walls, it’s time to move onto the ceiling. You can finish a basement ceiling by drywalling it, installing a drop-ceiling, or leaving it as-is for a more industrial look.
Leaving the ceiling open is the easiest route, while installing drywall will be the most difficult. If you want to drywall your ceiling but don’t have the DIY skills for it, contact a construction company like Home Solutions LLC.
Finish the Floors
Once you’ve finished the ceiling, it’s time to move onto the basement floors. Whatever type of flooring you choose, your first step will be to install subflooring.
A subfloor will add dryness, comfort, and warmth to your basement floor. Once the subflooring is set, you can install the top layer of flooring. There are many different flooring types to choose from, from vinyl to wood to carpet. Each of these flooring types comes with pros and cons, so do some research before you decide.
Finishing a Basement: Are You Ready to Finish Your Basement?
Now that you’ve read this guide to finishing a basement, it’s time to begin your project. Pretty soon, your basement will transform into your favorite room in the house.
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more tips and tricks on remodeling your home!
