Finishing a basement is a great way to add extra rooms to your home. Once the renovations are complete, you can increase your property’s value while doubling the size of your home. Depending on your basement size and remodelling plans basement finishing projects can range in cost from $5,000 to $50,000 or more. Planning your budget is one of the first and most important steps to finishing a basement.
There are several steps to finishing a basement and some will require hiring a professional to complete the work. However, when done properly, your basement will not only give you the extra room you want but it will also look fabulous.
Plan Your Renovations
The basement is a great place to add extra rooms that are not part of the original floor plan. Whether you are adding an extra bathroom or bedroom, an in-law suite, a home gym or in-house sauna, an office, or home bar and entertainment area, your basement provides the perfect space to turn those dreams into a reality. Before starting your basement finishing, think about what types of rooms you want and how you want your space to look when finished. Developing a floor plan will help you remodel your space efficiently so it looks great and works with your plumbing, electrical, and structural layout.
Inspections and Permits
Before you start your finishing basement, it is important to inspect your basement first to make sure there are no obstacles or unexpected issues that could result in a high repair bills later on. Look for any cracks, moisture, water leaks, or other foundation issues that could cause mould or other damage. Clean your basement so there is no unwanted clutter interfering with your basement finishing. Make sure you have all the permits needed for the work you will be doing.
Frame Your Basement
Now that you know what you want and where it will go, it’s time to frame your basement. You can save money if you know how to frame a basement. However, if you aren’t sure, you should consult with an expert to make sure the faming is done right.
Basement framing requires accurate measurements of your space so the wood is cut to the right size. Using 2 by 4’s, frame your basement and open areas to build the walls, door frames, and room separations. Place the wood vertically every 16 inches (35.2 cm) apart, the standard measurement in wall construction.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Your basement finishing project will require the installation of additional wiring and plumbing. Once you have built the frame, you will need to add any wires or plumbing lines so you can install lighting and outlets to your rooms. Unless you are extremely handy and experienced with electrical and plumbing, it is recommended that you get an expert so the job is done right.
Insulating Your Basement
Once the electrical work is complete, the next step in finishing a basement is insulating your walls. There are different types of insulation available for basement finishing including fiberglass, spray foam, and foam board. You can also get sound proof or moisture resistant insulation panels. The type of insulation you choose will depend on your budget and basement finishing requirements. When in doubt, ask a pro to help you find the right type.
Installing Drywall
The next step in your basement finishing project is adding the drywall and doors to complete the construction of your rooms. Adding drywall to your basement requires accurate measuring and cutting of your boards so they perfectly fit the frame. Holes will also have to be cut where the electrical outlets are installed on the walls. Knowing how to finish your basement wall is crucial because mistakes will show and take away from the aesthetic look of your room. Consider hiring a drywall installer to hang your drywall so you don’t run into immediate or future problems.
Drywall panels come in different widths and types. When finishing your basement, choose drywall that best suits the type of room you are building.
The Finishing Touch
Once the walls are finished, it is time to finish your basement by installing doors, painting your new walls, adding lights, fixtures, furnishings, and décor. Adding the final touches will not only complete the rooms but it also gives you a chance to personalize every room with your own style and tastes.
Basement finishing is a great way to add extra space and value to your home. At DRV Basements, we can help you turn your drab basement into a fabulous living space.