Finishing your basement might be the best home project that you can start! Getting this project will give you several benefits like an additional room or eliminating risks that can cause damage to your home. So are you one of the people who need to finish their basement space? Or have you been planning to do so for a long time but some, but why do it? This is the right article for you because we listed the best basement finishing tips just for you!
Skip to Section
How do I finish my basement myself?
There’s no doubt that you can finish it yourself with the proper knowledge and guidance. Here are the basic steps of getting your DIY finishing and getting yourself a quality living space.
Create a Plan
Much like anything else, creating a plan for your basement remodeling project is essential. What things do you want to build or have in your basement remodeling plans? Start visualizing and writing your desired outcome, prepare a working budget, and know if there’s something you need to learn before execution.
Know the building codes
Home improvement projects require local permits and guidelines before carrying out. Contact your local government and apply for the needed permits. Study the necessary measurements, dimensions, or materials and use them as needed.
Get suitable materials
After you finalize your plan and apply for the needed documents, it’s now time to prepare all the materials you need. You can get your materials from the local hardware or get them delivered. Make sure that you’re getting the right size and quality! The last thing you want is to get the project delayed because you got the wrong material on hand. Also, don’t forget to add some spare materials if something from the inventory breaks.
How much does it cost to finish a basement?
Getting your basement remodeled is an investment. It will require money to get suitable materials, equipment, and labor. Your basement finish is a long-term investment that will give you long-term benefits. On average, renovating a basement costs $30,000 and ranges from $25-$50 per square foot. If you’re going to redo your extra space for activities, don’t hold back and invest in the right assets. Here’s a tip: Prioritize your spending and make sure that you go through all options for materials to see where you can get extra savings.
Finished Basement Tips and Tricks
Getting your basement finished? Here are some essential tips and tricks that you can do to make sure you get the best work possible!
Rough-in for your electronics
Some people dream of getting their finished space into a high-tech room, maybe a gaming or entertainment room. If you’re one of them, make sure that you rough in those electrical wirings before building any other structures.
Use insulation to reduce noise.
Adding insulation in your basement has another benefit; it can reduce noise from the outside into the room. If you’re using a drop ceiling, you should consider getting an insulated tile. If you’re planning on having drywall, consider getting fiberglass insulation or installing batting on your floor joists. Getting these will surely help you reduce the noise and keep you warm during the cold weather.
Consider radiant heating for the basement bathroom
Basement bathroom tends to be colder than any bathrooms in the other parts of your home, which is why installing radiant underfloor heating is recommended. It will tremendously add comfort, especially if you plan on getting a tub or a shower.
Explore other flooring options
Use engineered hardwood, cork flooring, and high-quality tiles for your basement. Hardwood and cork flooring requires a leveled subfloor, while tiles can go directly into a concrete floor. Choose the right option for you as there are several basement flooring options available for your floor space.
Combat molds with eco-friendly treated wood or stainless steel
Mold growth can cause adverse health effects to your family’s health. Consider using treated wood or stainless steel in your framing. They have a relatively equal cost and protect you and your family from microorganisms. Use materials that can prevent moisture in the room.
In what order do you finish a basement?
Start with drying
Before doing all the construction you need in your basement, make sure that it’s dry. Look for stagnant water, mildew, and other fungi that are considered signs of the presence of water. You can call a basement remodeling service provider for water removal and basement waterproofing, install appropriate plumbing to get rid of water issues if needed.
Install Insulation
Like mentioned, basements tend to be the coldest place in your home, which is why it’s crucial to get basement insulation. Manage hard floors by installing heating cubes, drainage mats, and polystyrene foam to the foundation walls.
Build your wall frames
Measure all the dimensions you want to apply to your basement wall and start constructing wall frames. You should also rough in your electrical wirings in this process as well. Make sure that you also use materials with great moisture barriers to prevent molds.
Install Drywall
Now it’s time to patch up your walls. Ensure that you measured all the dimensions you need and cut holes needed for electric ports and outlets. You can use specialized tools for drywall sheets like drywall tape or a drywall knife. Installing drywall in the basement is a popular choice among homeowners. It’s not surprising to hear that it’s the greatest material to utilize for basement wall covering.
Add subflooring and flooring.
If you’re using wood or cork basement flooring options, it’s a must to build a sub-flooring. Sub-flooring supports your main flooring and protects it from moisture from the ground. If you don’t want to use wood, cork, or vinyl, you can go for tiles installed directly on concrete.
Install your ceiling
The last step is the ceiling. You can choose between a drywall ceiling or a drop-ceiling for your basement. Drywall ceiling has a better-looking finish and can help you save space, while tile-ceiling tends to be more convenient when accessing lighting and wires, just move ceiling tiles and repair.
Things to Remember With DIY Basement
Doing your DIY basement can be a fun and beneficial project to do. Like in doing other DIY projects, make sure that you have enough knowledge and skills to accomplish your home beautification goals. Find access to resources that will help guide you. If you’re not comfortable with other tasks, you can always find a good basement remodeling contractor you can outsource.
Should I waterproof my basement before finishing it?
The answer is YES. Finishing a basement is an investment. Imagine using your hard-earned money to build, furnish, and decorate your basement and all of a sudden get a water-entry emergency? If you don’t want to encounter such a disaster, ensure that you waterproof your basement before renovating. Prevent water infiltration and preserve your basement’s state with waterproofing.
Need help in finishing your basement the right way? Contact a basement remodeling contractor!
Don’t risk the quality of your basement renovation! Whether you need your whole basement finishing done in one go or need assistance in electrical wirings, flooring, wall installation, or basement waterproofing, get in touch with a contractor that will help you build your dream basement! Contact Paragon Remodelling today and get a free estimation in your basement finishing project.
