Things to Consider When Finishing Your Basement

If you’ve decided to finish your basement, you probably already know that this project will require a considerable amount of time and effort, and that you’ll need professional assistance to make sure that your basement looks its best. However, there are a few things you can do yourself to finish your basement and make it a space that your family can enjoy. Remember these tips when you want to turn your basement into a livable space.

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Make sure there are no water issues in the basement before you start building. Drips coming through the walls or small pools of water in various areas of the basement are a sign that there is leakage somewhere. Look outside to ensure that the ground and foundation are not wet or contain openings that could lead to water damage. Ask a plumber and contractor to help you get rid of these issues before you add anything else to the basement space.

You should also be aware of building codes before you begin the basement renovation process. Check with your city and county to see if you need permits to do any construction projects in your basement. This is essential if you’re doing electrical or plumbing work in this area of your home, so you’ll need to have an inspector come out and make sure everything is up to code.

Once you’ve decided to finish your basement, you’ll need to think about the fasteners in the floors and walls of the space. In most cases, these parts of the basement are created from block, masonry, cement or brick, which means that you’ll need more than a hammer and nails when you’re attaching the framing for the walls and/or windows. It may be best to rent a fastener that is power-actuated, or to hire a contractor who is experienced in this area of work to complete this part of the project for you.

Making sure the air is clear and clean in your basement should also be a priority. After you take care of any water issues, there’s still the possibility that your basement could be significantly more damp than the rest of your home. Add a vapor barrier between the floors and walls before you start framing and finishes these areas to make sure that moisture doesn’t get trapped and cause mold, mildew and damage.

Finally, ensure that you have an offset space even after you create the vapor barrier. This is because moisture could still be a problem, especially if you live in areas that rain a lot. Make an offset from the outside wall of your basement by adding metal or wood slats that can make the wall more level. It’s also best to keep out the cold air and welcome the warmth in so that the basement space will be comfortable for you and your loved ones to spend time in. Insulation is required for this, so check your local codes to ensure that you’re in keeping with the regulations in your area.