How to Finish Your Basement

Basement remodeling is not a daunting process when you can prepare meticulously before actually starting to work. It does require perseverance and hard work, but only to yield a rewarding experience. The task may, at times, become a bit overwhelming, with all the plumbing and lighting needed and you would certainly want an easy and economical method to employ here. Although, it is good to engage an expert to avoid any major pitfalls in finishing the basement, yet you can work on your own with appropriate guidelines. Wherever the need be, take expert advise. You would be happy to see the result of your sustained efforts in the form of an extra space in your house for you and your family to enjoy. So, let’s check out an easy method to finish your basement.

Complexity Level: Moderate

Time Required: 2-3 days

Resources Required:

  1. Scrub brush
  2. Mop
  3. Acrylic block fill primer
  4. Paint
  5. Tiles
  6. Brush
  7. Kitchen shears or heavy-duty scissors
  8. Decoration (as per choice)

Instructions:

1. Prepare a blueprint or scale drawing and work on your basement: Before you start your skills at the various tools, get a blueprint of your work area. Sometimes, you may want to get the approval from the local building inspections department. Your outline would include wall dimensions, window and door dimensions, any special features like fireplaces, etc. You would also want to know the budget before starting to invest. Once you are ready with the plan, clear everything out of the basement. Scrutinize your basement for any leaks. Any damage should be repaired before you start work. If the basement is damp, you must fix the problem. If you find a regular seepage after storms (occurring even in some years’ interval), fix it permanently before finishing. You can opt for re-routing downspouts or applying water-resistant paints to interior surfaces.

2. Work with the walls and floor: Scrub the walls with clear water and a scrub brush to remove the dirt and clinging elements. Let it dry completely. Use acrylic block fill primer on the walls to fill in the spaces, helping the paint to adhere to the walls. Brush the primer over entire wall surfaces. Allow it to dry for a whole day before painting the walls the next day. Clean the floor area and scrub stains, if any. You may put carpet tiles on the floor. Use single colored tiles to give a larger view to your room. You can trim any extra part using kitchen shears or heavy-duty scissors. Alternately, you can have a sub floor in your basement. It keeps your floor from getting cold enough, giving the feel of just another usual room. You can also keep the basement warm by making the perimeter walls or install a drywall.

3. Plumbing and lighting work: If you are doing the plumbing yourself, take precaution while working. An incorrect wiring can cause fire and damage to your house. You may also harm yourself due to an electrical shock.

4. Ceiling and others: Ceilings have several variations. Opting for a suspended ceiling is a good. It provides an attractive look to the basement. The suspended ones allow easy access to pipes and wires. Another one is the tray ceiling, which costs more but are high in quality. You can choose one according to your comfort and need. There are endless options for you to select for decorating your basement. You can use your own judgment and skill here. There are many like the do-it-yourself bookshelf kits, floor pillows, cover furniture, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know what my basement remodel will cost?

There are several contractors who can provide the estimated cost you would incur on remodeling your basement. It is a good idea to get around 3 different quotations from the market. Have a scrutiny of the facilities they provide, which consequent to variation in cost. Prefer the one which has an expertise in the area. You would not want to engage a landscaper to work for your basement! There are some who allow their clients to provide their own finishing materials (may be partially). You could provide your own paint, tiles, bath fixtures, etc.

Quick Tips:

  • Doors can be decorated beautifully to give elegance to your basement. Widen doorways and use arches and columns to beautify them. You can have a solid one for complete privacy.

  • Paneling, though cheap and simple, does not last long. Drywall has a refined appeal and is more lasting.

Things To Watch Out For:

Scrutinize the basement for any damage, particularly leaks, before starting to remodel it. Once you begin your work, it would be difficult to go in reverse. Finishing the basement is a comprehensive task.

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