How to Build a Room in the Basement
The basement -- the last frontier of Christmas decorations, old toys, lawn furniture and anything else that a person can collect over time and have no place else to put. But what if you want more out of your basement? Then read these tips on how to a build a room in your basement that will turn dreary into useful Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Lumber
- Nails
- Hammer
- Power saws
- Drywall
- Drywall paste
- Cutting knife
- Measuring tape
- Electrical wiring
- Flooring
Instructions
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How to Build a Room in a Basement
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1
Decide on the area in which you plan to build your room and clear that area of all debris. It should be completely bare before you start.
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2
Take lumber -- preferably 2x4s -- and build a frame for the room. Make sure to cut in a door or doors. A good rule of thumb is to build the bottom base and then place the upright beams on the base, 12" apart around the room.
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3
Run wiring through the framework and add outlets and plugs. Make sure to run wiring into the ceiling, in case you want to add lights or an overhead fan. This should be relatively easy to connect to the wiring that is already in the basement, since it should already be open.
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4
Put up your drywall. You will need someone to help with this part. Place your pieces horizontally and go from the ceiling to the top of the walls, then to the bottom. Note that this likely will take two days to finish, because you need to let the drywall paste stick.
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5
Wipe the excess dust off the drywall and vacuum the floor area.
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6
Install your flooring -- either wooden, ceramic or carpeting.
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7
Finish by installing your light fixtures and cover plates.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Check with your local government to see if you need a special permit to make renovations.
If you hire outside help, make sure they are bonded and insured.
