Things to consider before a basement remodel:
1. Basement foundation cracks - hairline cracks in the basement can be the fault of improper curing where as large cracks are most likely caused by settling. Both can be repaired with hydraulic cement if the crack is not active
2. Basement moisture problems - moisture problems may be difficult to fix. Water is persistent and can make its way through the basement walls that are considered permeable.
An easy way to test water problems is to tape a piece of aluminum foil to various places on basement walls and floors. Seal the edges of the foil tightly and leave in place for several days. After several days, if moisture droplets appear beneath the foil then moisture is going through the basement masonry. If the moisture appears on top of the foil, the problem is condensation from basement humidity.
Look for other water problems by looking in the underside of the basement's first subflooring for signs of leaks. Fix any faulty pipes and fixtures. Look for brownish stains on the basement subfloor and sides of the basement joists. This will indicate active or an old leak that has been repaired. If the stain is spongy, an active leak exists.
Planning a Basement Project
Planning is critical to the success of a basement remodel. You first need to decide what you’d like to add to your basement in order to determine the type and order of work need to be done:
- Wetbar
- Bathroom
- Kitchen
- Number of electrical outlets, telephone lines, and cable hook-ups
- Paneling, dry walling, or painting to cover cement walls
- Expanding stairwell and opening up doorways
- Adding windows
- Lighting - fluorescent lights, table lights, floor lamps, and ceiling lights
- Ceiling - suspended ceiling, tray ceiling
- Flooring or carpeting
- Storage room
NOTE: You will most-likely need a building permit to finish your basement, and that'll require at least a sketch of your project--BEFORE you begin--to give your local building officials an idea of what you're doing. Check with them before starting.
Here is just a sample of the basement remodel services that United Installers provides:
