How to Design a Finished Basement
A finished basement adds value and living space to your home. Finishing a basement can be a big job if you need to do a lot of prep work on the floor and walls. Damp walls and floors can ruin a project. Ceiling heights lower than 7 feet also create problems. Consider these elements when you sketch out a plan for your basement. Calculate the costs and be prepared to call in plumbers, electricians and construction experts. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Vapor barrier
- Flooring
- Drop ceiling
- Framing materials
- Insulation
- Drywall
Instructions
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Address moisture issues. If the basement is damp, determine how the moisture is getting into the room. Fix cracks in the foundation and paint the walls with a vapor barrier like Dry Loc if you won't be adding insulation or constructing walls. Insulation is installed with a vapor barrier.
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Check that the floor is relatively even. If there are large differences in height, either excavate the floor or install a floating floor above the existing floor. Excavation is a big job, but you gain the benefit of creating more space between the floor and ceiling.
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Lay a floor that's appropriate to the use of the basement. Laminates can be used over concrete if the concrete is properly prepared. Use a heavy duty carpet like berber in play areas. Ceramic tile and natural stone can be used if they're sealed to prevent staining.
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Conceal ductwork and pipes in a drop ceiling. A drop ceiling is suspended from metal runners and then filled in with acoustic tiles. Use fire retardant insulation between the drop ceiling and the ceiling of the basement. This will also add sound proofing.
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Plan rooms based on the use of the basement. A mother-in-law suite requires a bath, bedroom and kitchenette. A media room or playroom should be large enough to accommodate toys and furnishings. Frame out a separate laundry room and a utility room to hide the furnace, circuit breaker box and water heater.
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Add a full bath. If there isn't room for a full bath, build a ¾ bath or powder room. Situate the new bath under an existing bath upstairs to avoid having to run new plumbing. Add a bar for entertaining. Install surround sound in home theaters.
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Paint the walls light colors to create the illusion that the room is larger than it is. Hang floor-to-ceiling drapes over the windows to make the ceiling seem higher. Add vertical design elements that draw the eye upward, like large potted plants and free standing screens. Install can lighting and mini-spotlights that draw the eye to appealing features of the room.
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Tips & Warnings
Use fire resistant insulation and sheetrock on walls. Consider installing radiant heating, especially if you have to excavate.
Check with your local jurisdiction to see what permits you need before you start.
Resources
- Photo Credit Daniels Builders
