We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Best Tips for Finishing a Basement?

By Troy Holmes
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 6,589
Share

Finishing a basement is a moderately complex home project that requires careful planning and organization skills. Making a complete basement plan is important for completing a basement project. It should include a complete graphical layout of desired rooms, water supply, electric outlets, bathrooms, lights, and doors.

The blueprint diagram is typically a prerequisite for any basement project. It provides the material list and contractor services that will be needed to finish the basement. This diagram is normally completed by a professional contractor or architect. It should include all electrical sockets, lights, and water supplies necessary for finishing a basement.

A homeowner is required to follow the applicable building code rules when finishing a basement. After the concept is completed, a building permit is typically necessary. The building permit will require a blueprint diagram that defines the layout of the proposed basement. Authorities will approve the basement based on the proposed design and current building standards. The homeowner is obligated to build the basement based on these standards.

Most states require two inspections when finishing a basement. These inspections happen during the framing rough-in phase and when the project is complete. The rough-in inspection validates the framing hardware, electrical wiring, and plumbing. The final inspection includes a walk-through that checks electrical switches, faucets, and finished walls. The homeowner should allow two or three weeks to complete both inspections.

A drop ceiling is often considered a good option for finishing a basement. Most basements have the plumbing and electrical wiring built into the ceiling of the basement area. Creating a dropped ceiling makes it easier to access these pipes and wires for the entire home because the ceiling tiles are easily removed if an emergency occurs.

Using a ceramic or tile floor is another good option for a basement area. Many basements are under the ground level and therefore prone to flooding. It is important to build the floor with a versatile material. If carpeting is preferred, it will most likely be destroyed by water damage.

Most basements contain the water heater, furnace, and air conditioner units for the home. When finishing a basement, it is important to build adequate space around these units. A homeowner should assume these units will need replacement over time. Building sufficient space around these units will make replacement easier.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-best-tips-for-finishing-a-basement.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.