10 Tips for Finishing a Rochester, NY Basement

Whether it's extra bedroom space, a new den, a playroom or just a quiet spot to call your own, finishing the basement is one of the greatest ways to improve and expand your living space. Don's Custom Decks & Remodeling has plenty of experience remodeling in Rochester, NY helping customers take advantage of space they didn't know they had.

Our team of contractors in Rochester, NY specialize in a variety of different services for maintenance, restoration/renovation and new construction projects. If you’re interested in remodeling your basement, keep these ten tips in mind when you’re planning the project. 

Keeping Basement Dry
Check for any water issues in your basement before beginning the planning process. Obvious signs are pools of water or drips coming through the below-grade walls. Check outside to make sure the ground is graded away from your foundation. Also look for cracks in your foundation walls and repair that damage if necessary. The experts at Don's Custom Decks & Remodeling have experience remodeling in Rochester, NY to create the basement you envision.

Check For Local Codes & Permits
After you've taken care of any moisture problems and have come up with your plan, it's time to check with your local municipality to see if you'll be required to get any permits. This is particularly important if you're planning plumbing and electrical work, which may have to be inspected.

Fasteners
Nails and screws probably won’t be enough to attach a frame when basement walls and floors are usually cement, brick, or block. A powder-actuated fastener uses a charge to fire a fastener into concrete, brick or block which will get the job done properly. 

Add a Vapor Barrier
Basements are still damp places even if you’ve taken care of the basic moisture issues. Adding a vapor barrier to both walls and floors before framing is recommended. To test how much moisture is coming in, lay down a vapor barrier and check underneath after 24 hours. You can then confidently gauge whether to finish the entire barrier or adjust for more protection. 

Use Offset Spaces
Moisture can still be an issue even with a vapor barrier. To add additional protection, create a slight offset from the outside wall by adding thin slats of wood or metal called furring strips. These thin strips of wood are used to raise the surface of another material to prevent dampness. Maintaining WarmthInstalling insulation in your basement is critical for keeping control of your temperature and it can serve as an extra layer for moisture control. Choose an insulation that includes a vapor barrier on both sides. Other options include a spray foam insulation but be sure to check code requirements for this type before purchasing.
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Drop Ceilings Provide Easy Access
A drop, or suspended, ceiling offers a way to both conceal and provide access to electrical and plumbing lines via the removable tiles. You may have a preconceived notion that such a ceiling will look more like an office than a home, but there are plenty of attractive options available. These ceilings will reduce the amount of overhead space available, so keep that in mind when planning. Think a new remodeled basement in Rochester, NY is right for you and your family? Don's Custom Decks & Remodeling has expertise in finishing and expanding to fit your needs. 

Adding Some Warmth at Baseboards
Warm air rises, so it makes sense to install heating vents at floor level. Baseboard heating is a good option, but have a plan to connect it into your existing HVAC system. For a finished space, you want to make sure you're not relying on space heaters, so plan carefully. Do No Finish the Utility RoomKeep the space housing an HVAC unit or units and water heaters clear, open, and unfinished. These spaces have specific code requirements for spacing and framing, plus you'll need access for inspection and/or repairs. You may be tempted to finish off this area, but keep it simple to avoid problems later.

Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting in a basement is a good option, because they won't take up valuable overhead space that a light fixture would. Plus, it's easy to install with a drop ceiling.
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Contact Us Today
Want to learn more about and see what we can do for your home? Visit our website and sign up to receive a free estimate for your deck, kitchen, basement, or any other home improvements! With Don's Custom Decks & Remodeling our remodeling in Rochester, NY we are dedicated to transforming and house to the home of your dreams.