Remodeling your basement is a great way to use already available space in your home. When starting your layout decide begin by deciding on how many rooms you will have and there wall placements. Then decide your kitchen and bathroom plumbing if that is all applicable. Ceiling options also must be taken into consideration and that is where we will start.
Drop ceilings are the most commonly used application in basement remodels today. With new designs and materials they fit in well in even the most upscale remodel. They are used for there ease of installation and there ability to allow future access to your existing hardware. When installing these ceilings allow two to three inches from the bottom of the joist and more if you have any low hanging plumbing or wiring. Also when planning for your ceiling height remember that you may have to install a subfloor which will consume more valuable space. The other option for your remodel would be a drywalled ceiling. This can become rather costly with framing issues though. Also any future maintenance to existing hardware will be impossible. When considering this option always consult your contractor for his advice on any future problems.
Now onto plumbing of your bathroom and kitchen. In a basement remodel you need to decide how you will evacuate and waste waters and bring in supply water. In a conventional system the water can be gravity fed to the outside sewer system. This is generally not the case in a basement though as you are below the existing sewer lines. Not to worry though you do have the option of pumping your waste water out to these existing lines. There are many available systems today in a variety of costs so I would consult a local plumber for your application. The supply side should be of no problem though as these are pressurized and easily added on to existing plumbing. When planning these systems always consult local building codes for rules and regulations. This is a area that you do not want to get in any trouble for.
If you have chosen to run your wiring through the floor to cabinets or walls now is the time to lay out and install proposed wiring. Again this is best left to a certified and insured electrician to eliminate problems with your local governing body and possibly insurance company. The basic process will involve the installation of conduit in your existing floor and into the new walls and ceiling. The wire will then be pulled throughout this conduit to any installations you will have planned for.
Now that you have laid out all of your plumbing and wiring its time to install a subfloor. A subfloor is generally installed in a basement remodeling to help with warmth and general comfort in the floor. Many homeowners decide to go with a polystyrene base covered with plywood and secured with concrete screws. Be careful when installing this not to damage any of your new plumbing or electrical installation! A polystyrene (styrofoam) base is recommended for its insulation and resistance to mold and mildew. Polystyrene also will not rot making it a ideal material for basement floor installation. Some homeowners will choose to forgo this option and install their flooring directly to their basement floor. This is always an option but it should be noted that unless you have installed a radiant floor heating system (very high cost) your floor will be uncomfortable at times and carpeting may wear prematurely.
Along the way in your basement remodel you will encounter many bumps in the road. Always consult a qualified contractor for there advice and stick to your local codes. Good luck in the process and I hope you will enjoy your newly finished basement for years to come!
Before you start your Basement Remodel check out http://newbasementremodeling.com/ for ideas and resources.
