An unfinished basement can be the perfect spot to turn into an extra bedroom, family room, hobby area, or a small combined living and kitchen. Finishing a basement can be easier than it seems.
With the right guidance, you could complete this project relatively quickly.
We’ve outlined everything from planning and design to materials and construction tips below so you can quickly prepare your new space!
Is Your Unfinished Basement Too Big A Job For You?
When tackling an unfinished basement yourself, consider the project’s scope.
Not all DIY projects can be done without a permit from your local municipality.
Understanding the local codes, such as foundation and electrical requirements, is important to ensure compliance and safety.
Furthermore, if your unfinished basement requires excavation to meet code regulations, for example, a minimum 7-foot clearance may be required once finished, then it may be best left to a professional.
Unfinished Basement Checklist
Damp and Insect Infestation
Check that the basement is sealed. This can be done with a moisture meter, testing several areas on the basement walls and concrete floor.
DIY damp test: tape a 1ft x 1ft square of plastic over the floor and one on the wall. After 24 hours, if there is condensation, then there is moisture.
If there is a high moisture content, then the basement needs a waterproofing system on the inside face of the walls and the basement concrete floor. The collected water will drain to a Sump Pump.
If moisture is found in the basement, there is a good chance of rot in the basement ceiling joists above.
Use an awl to check the timbers for rot and any insect infestation.
If rot or an infestation is found in the unfinished basement, the timbers must be treated or replaced before finishing work.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Furnaces are commonly found in unfinished basements and should be regularly checked for carbon monoxide leaks.
This is even more important if the basement will be used as a habitable space.
It’s a good opportunity to replace the furnace if it’s very old. A new one will be far more economical to run.
Radon Levels
Check for a high risk of Radon in your area here. If you live in an area where this is a high risk, a mitigation system must be installed.
Waterproof Unfinished Basement Floor & Walls
If the unfinished basement is used as a habitable space and dampness is evident, it must be waterproofed.
Ideally, this would be carried out by professionals.
Excess moisture collects behind a plastic sheeting membrane that lines the walls and concrete floor.
Drains are installed inthe basement concrete floor, usually along the bottom of the exterior basement walls, which run to a sump pump.
Tip – Double up on a sump pump, in case of a power outage, and use a battery backup.
Utility Services – Electrics, Heating, Drainage
Gas lines, water, heating ducts, electricity, and drainage will likely all be needed to finish a basement.
Some existing pipework may need to be diverted to avoid new structures.
The easiest way to route pipework and cables is through ceiling joists and run the services through walls.
Ensure that insulation is wrapped around the hot water plumbing installation.
Heat can be lost through exposed pipes.
Warm air is run through heating ducts. These will be run below the basement ceiling.
Wall Framing and Insulation
Once the basement walls have been treated, build a stud wall for insulation and fixings for hanging white goods and wall furniture.
Use top and bottom plates with vertical framing.
There are various forms of insulation, such as polystyrene or foam insulation.
The u-value requirements could vary between zones, so this must be checked.
When finishing basement walls, cover them with a vapor barrier and hang drywall to the wall framing with drywall tape.
Use moisture-resistant drywall in areas of high moisture content, such as a bathroom.
Subflooring
To meet Building Code requirements and comfort, a subfloor has to be created over concrete floors.
If used, rigid insulation will be laid over the basement floor or drainage layer.
Consider using a concrete layer above the insulation if there is space, as this works best with Under Floor Heating.
UFH is a great method of heating the basement. It runs at a low temperature and is energy-efficient and comfortable.
Alternatively, a floating floor can be installed over the insulation, reducing cost. It will also allow more ceiling height.
It depends on the ceiling height of the unfinished basement.
A vapor layer should always cover insulation; some insulations have a foil backing, and joints should be taped.
Installing An Egress Window In An Unfinished Basement
Installing a basement egress window is an important safety measure.
Ultimately, ensuring your basement provides an adequate escape route in case of fire is needed.
An egress window also provides natural light and ventilation, which can help improve the living space of your basement.
Installing an egress window is not particularly difficult, but it does involve cutting into the basement wall.
Thus, proper installation is best done by a qualified professional with experience in this area.
Ventilation Requirements
Every habitable space should have a window to provide background and purge ventilation.
However, this isn’t always possible in a basement.
Mechanical ventilation should be installed, not only for the comfort of fresh air but also to prevent the build-up of condensation on the walls and ceiling.
Will You Have Enough Space?
There are many important space factors to consider when considering finished basement ideas.
Such as the walls and the concrete floors will require additional layers, such as insulation, stud walls, drywall, and finished flooring.
However, this will reduce the size of the basement.
Make sure you allow for this when planning your basement renovation.
Subsequently, using floor plan software means you won’t be disappointed.
Make sure to allow for a new staircase in your design. Use the space under the stairs for an office area.
It’s very likely the existing one doesn’t meet the building code. A new staircase will take up more space, but also provide more storage space underneath.
You may have an old well in your basement. If it is no longer used, this must be removed/infilled.
Basement Ceiling Insulation
To reduce impact sound from the floor above, mineral wool is installed between the floor joists.
In addition, a suspended ceiling with metal frames creates more space for lights and ventilation.
Furthermore, there may not be any in the ceiling insulation of the unfinished basement.
Consider using lower energy bulbs throughout the basement to reduce running costs.
Planning and Building Code Permits To Finish A Basement
Before renovating your unfinished basement, you must be aware of and adhere to all local building codes, which typically require permits for any work.
Obtaining these permits can seem overwhelming, but it is worth the effort.
Not only will you comply with local regulations and avoid fines or other penalties in the future, but you may also gain access to resources that will ensure proper installation and safety measures.
Look at our article on How To Plan a Home Renovation for more information.
Some Basement Room Ideas
Entertainment Space or Craft Room
Family Room Basement Ideas
Kitchen Basement Ideas
Guest Room Basement Ideas
Wine Cellar Basement Ideas
Vertical Wall Cladding To Crease Height
Using fluted wall panels or stripe wallpaper will help make your basement feel taller if it’s vertically challenged!
Laundry Room Basement Ideas
When considering the new staircase to your basement, it’s worth installing something special with traditional or modern floating stairs if it is open to the room.
Conclusion To Unfinished Basements
Completing an unfinished basement is not an easy task. However, with careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a space that adds function and value to your home.
From insulation and hanging white goods to egress windows and ventilation systems. There are many considerations when creating this living space.
Check local building codes for any regulations you must adhere to, and always hire a qualified professional.
For other remodeling ideas, take a look at finishing an attic.
