Before you can start remodeling your basement, you’ll need to decide on the design and functionality of the room. The basement is often an unfinished space with exposed utilities such as water heaters and HVAC units, which can be problematic to work around.
An unfinished basement can be easily repaired if something goes wrong. However, before you can begin remodeling, it is important to hire a contractor that can determine the basement’s weight capacity. Most basements feature a series of support beams that stabilize the house’s structure, so it’s important to consider this in your design plan.
Insulate
Before you start finishing your basement, you must first solve any possible existing moisture issues. For example, it is imperative to fix any seepage from your plumbing if that problem is occurring. This will prevent the pipes from transferring heat and water through the wall, eventually damaging your finished basement product.
Frame
If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your basement into a living space, you’ve probably considered the common steps to finishing a basement. Whether you’re finishing your basement to add extra square footage or looking to use it as a playroom, the structure of the large space needs a plan. This stage of the process requires that you determine the layout of the space and frame in the walls that will help shape it into what your family needs.
Drywall
Drywall installation will give your basement a finished look, hiding ductwork and other issues to make the space feel more like a room. Be aware that installing drywall over foundational walls that might show signs of moisture intrusion, like cracking or bowing, is a big mistake! If water issues are not remediated before finishing a basement, any damage will continue to worsen and eventually seriously degrade your basement foundation.
Tile Shower
Before you start constructing the tile shower in your basement, it is crucial to ensure the area is dry and free of leaks. Make sure that the outside ground slopes away from the foundation and that the drain tile system is functioning correctly. Suppose you are unsure whether the drain tile system is functioning properly. In that case, you can implement an interior drain tile system, like those offered by BARRIER Waterproofing Systems. This type of system is very helpful if you have a home without an exterior drain tile system or if your home is unable to receive one.
Electrical Work
Whether you are completing a home theater room or just redoing the lighting in the basement, electrical work is almost inevitable. A professional contractor will mark locations for electrical boxes and switches, drill holes into joists, add breakers and install outlet boxes. Once the wiring is installed, you can enjoy all the added features of the new room. Do not forget that any prior leaking that may be happening in your basement, if not properly prevented using a drainage system, can double the trouble with electrical work installed nearby.
Subflooring
If you have decided to add flooring to your basement, it’s important to take care of the subfloor first. Many basements have cement slabs as floors, but installing a subfloor will help increase comfort, dryness, and warmth. Alternatively, you can hire a professional to complete this step for you. If your basement is in need of an interior drainage system, considering the installation process before any floor work is done is a must. This is because installing a drain tile around the perimeter of your basement requires breaking up a trench in the concrete slab before finishing the construction as good as new.
Getting a Permit
Getting a building permit before you finish your basement is critical for safety reasons. It is not illegal to finish a basement, but if you don’t have a permit, you may end up breaking local bylaws, which are enforced by your municipality. Failing to get a building permit could result in major damage to your property. Besides, failing to get a permit could make you liable for large fines if your basement floods.
For help with understanding how your basement and moisture are formidable foes, give BARRIER Waterproofing Systems a call today at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168. Sealing up any water intrusion and installing professional waterproofing measures before finishing your basement will ensure your hard work will last for years to come. The last thing you would want after a difficult remodel is to invest your passion into a now mold-ridden, mildew-infested, or water-filled mess! Visit our website for more information about waterproofing systems and the benefits they bring for one of your largest investments as a homeowner.
