How to Finish a Basement in Your Home

Ask Danny, Attics and Basements, Carpentry, Repairs and Installation by Danny Lipford

I’m planning on finishing our basement myself at little at a time. How should I go about it? -Tony

Hi Tony,

When finishing a basement, you should tackle the job in this order:

  1. Check your local building codes for requirements such as ceiling height, stair proportions, and the location and size of egress windows and doors.
  2. Make sure the envelope around your basement is waterproof, and correct any moisture or humidity problems that may exist.
  3. Test the basement for the presence of radon gas, and take steps to lower it if needed.
  4. Draw a detailed plan for the space.
  5. Frame up any interior walls.
  6. Rough in the wiring, plumbing, and ductwork.
  7. Hang and finish the drywall on ceiling and walls.
  8. Install interior door units.
  9. Install trim molding.
  10. Paint walls and trim.
  11. Install any built-in cabinets.
  12. Finish up plumbing and wiring.
  13. Install flooring.

Good luck with your project,

Danny

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2 Comments on “How to Finish a Basement in Your Home”

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  1. Russell Says:
    September 29th, 2009 at 8:54 am

    Hello,I Have A Big Problem With Dampnesss In My Basement Walls. Theres No Water Runing In. Just Dampness,The Dehumidifier,Has Helped. I Allso Had Damtite Allong With Some Other Sealent Added, In Less Than Two Years, The Dampness Along With Lots Of Mold With big Dark Bubbles.. Is there anything that will work without diging??

  2. Official Comment:

    Ben Erickson Says:
    September 29th, 2009 at 1:09 pm

    Russell,
    Start by being sure the drainage is good around your foundation with the grade sloping slightly away from the house. Next, install gutters to divert water from your roof away from your house, and extend the downspouts to keep it further away. If you’re still having problems, the only solution might be to dig up around the house and waterproof the exterior walls. Watch our video on What to Consider When Remodeling Your Basement for more information.

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