Basement finishing, renovation or remodeling in northern NJ can be one of the smartest decisions you can make to add value to your home. Not only will it add additional living space and improve quality of life for you and your family, it will also increase your resell value substantially. At Monks Home Improvements we specialize in making your design vision a reality. You will be working with true craftsmen and diligent project managers that will work closely with you on finishing out your basement space.

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Whatever your basement renovation plans, Monks Home Improvements is ready to deliver a completed product and a remodeling process that you will want to tell your friends and neighbors about. At Monks Home Improvements we take pride in our work.

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Monks Home Improvements is fully licensed and insured. Please contact us today to take the first steps towards creating your dream home.

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Basement Remodeling - Monk's Home Improvements

Dear Homeowner:

To remodel or not to remodel your basement. Should I do it myself or hire it out? Should I get the work done or should we just move to a new house? These are the common questions we hear all the time regarding remodeling basements in the Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia area.

The good news is, remodeling your basement does not have to be a painful experience at all on your time, lifestyle or your budget.

TLC Incorporated have been remodeling basements for over 20 years in the Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington DC areas, and we know the specific type of challenges homeowners in our region face. Regardless of who you choose to remodel your basement, make sure that whoever you hire to do your basement remodel has a very good knowledge of the climate and history of how homes have been built in our area.

Perhaps one of the most common questions we get asked is, When I sell my house will I recoup the expense of remodeling my basement? This is a very fair question, and definitely should be considered ultimately when determining a budget for your basement remodel. Here is the latest report on that very subject from the Remodeling Magazines 2013 National Cost Vs. Value Report:

The latest Cost vs. Value Report revealed that basement remodeling projects continue to offer great value, with the typical project recouping 70.3% of costs when the home is sold. And on average, basement remodeling projects add over $43,000 to the sale price of a home.

Unlike invisible costs that are not necessarily recouped when you sell your house, such as a new roof, new carpeting, or replacing a water heater a basement remodel immediately adds livable square footage and the value is fully visible. The next homeowner doesnt have to think about or consider the expense of having it done himself because youve invested in having it done right.

Given the choice of an unfinished basement or a finished basement done right homebuyers are always going to first consider the project being done and paid for, giving you the advantage when its time to sell.

TLC will help you design a practical basement that fits your lifestyle and home, while keeping to your budget.

Call TLC today enter your contact information on the upper right-hand side of this page to receive a free, no-obligation estimate for your basement remodel.

We look forward to talking to you soon!

Sincerely,

Bob Carr, President of TLC Incorporated

http://www.tlcbasementremodeling.com/home/

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TLC Basement Remodeling - Serving Maryland, DC and ...

Project: Remodel a Kitchen

Date: 10/06/2015

Floorplan: I plan to maintain existing kitchen floorplan

Cabinets: Yes - I plan to move or update the cabinets

Appliances: No - I do not plan to move or update the appliances

Countertops: Yes - I plan to update the countertops

Sinks: Yes - I plan to update the sinks

Flooring: No - I do not plan to update the flooring

Lighting: No - I do not plan to update the lighting

What kind of location is this?: Home/Residence

Historical Work: No

Covered by Insurance: No

Desired Completion Date: Timing is flexible

Request Stage: Ready to Hire

Property Owner: Yes

Project: Remodel a Kitchen

Date: 10/06/2015

Floorplan: I plan to maintain existing kitchen floorplan

Cabinets: Yes - I plan to move or update the cabinets

Appliances: Yes - I plan to move or update some or all appliances

Countertops: Yes - I plan to update the countertops

Sinks: Yes - I plan to update the sinks

Flooring: Yes - I plan to update the flooring

Lighting: No - I do not plan to update the lighting

What kind of location is this?: Home/Residence

Desired Completion Date: Less than 2 months

Request Stage: Planning & Budgeting

Comment: Remodeling entire kitchen

Project: Remodel a Kitchen

Date: 10/06/2015

Floorplan: I plan to maintain existing kitchen floorplan

Cabinets: Yes - I plan to move or update the cabinets

Appliances: No - I do not plan to move or update the appliances

Countertops: Yes - I plan to update the countertops

Sinks: Yes - I plan to update the sinks

Flooring: No - I do not plan to update the flooring

Lighting: Yes - I plan to update the lighting

What kind of location is this?: Home/Residence

Historical Work: No

Covered by Insurance: No

Desired Completion Date: Timing is flexible

Request Stage: Planning & Budgeting

Property Owner: Yes

Comment: Reface or replace cabinets, replace counter tops.

Project: Renovate or Repair a Home

Date: 10/06/2015

What kind of location is this?: Home/Residence

Desired Completion Date: Less than 2 months

Request Stage: Ready to Hire

Project Description: Major home repair project

Comment: I need an estimate on getting a wall fixed in my home, water damage from the outside so need wall replaced completely.

Project: Remodel a Kitchen

Date: 10/05/2015

Floorplan: I plan to maintain existing kitchen floorplan

Cabinets: Yes - I plan to move or update the cabinets

Appliances: No - I do not plan to move or update the appliances

Countertops: Yes - I plan to update the countertops

Sinks: Yes - I plan to update the sinks

Flooring: No - I do not plan to update the flooring

Lighting: No - I do not plan to update the lighting

What kind of location is this?: Home/Residence

Historical Work: No

Covered by Insurance: No

Desired Completion Date: Less than 2 months

Request Stage: Ready to Hire

Property Owner: Yes

Comment: kitchen cabinet and countertop refacing

Project: Remodel a Bathroom

Date: 10/05/2015

Shower / Bath: Yes - I want to move or install a new shower or bath

Toilet: No - I will keep the existing toilet as is

Cabinets / Vanity: Yes - I plan to update the cabinets / vanity

Countertops: Yes - I plan to update the countertops

Sinks: Yes - I plan to update the sinks

Flooring: Yes - I plan to update the flooring

Extensiveness of Remodel: I plan to maintain existing bathroom floorplan

Desired Completion Date: Timing is flexible

Request Stage: Ready to Hire

Requires Work on Historical Structure: No

Request for Commercial Location: No

Covered by Insurance: Yes

Property Owner: Yes

Comment: I want my bathroom completely remodel.

Project: Build an Addition

Date: 10/05/2015

Desired Completion Date: Timing is flexible

Request Stage: Planning & Budgeting

Type of Addition: Remodel existing space

Requires Work on Historical Structure: No

Request for Commercial Location: No

Project Description: Build - Use existing architectural drawings

Rooms Included:: Bathroom

Rooms Included:: Common area(s)

Property Owner: Yes

Comment: add a extra bedroom

Project: Remodel a Bathroom

Date: 10/05/2015

Shower / Bath: Yes - I want to move or install a new shower or bath

Toilet: Yes - I will be replacing or moving the toilet

Cabinets / Vanity: Yes - I plan to update the cabinets / vanity

Read the original here:
Addition & Remodeling Contractors in Hollywood, FL (Florida)

Affordable Solutions

At Basement Remodel Guys basement modeling, we offer versatile solutions at the most affordable price. You can call 800-590-6364 to know more about the services and you will figure out the savings made through finished basements.

At Basement Remodel Guys complete home remodeling services are offered. It is possible to undertake renovations, home makeovers, drywall services and damage restoration in an effortless manner. The licensed finished basement company will have discussions with you so that your requirements will be collected and suitable plans will be implemented. The services are tailor made to your needs so that you can make the most of your investment.

Our trained and disciplined designers and product specialists will process your requests very quickly. High quality basement remodeling services are offered by experts.

Call us now at 800-590-6364 to get quick quote. If you have any specific queries about finished basement companies and finish basement contractors, you can get in touch with the customer support team.

Best support and experience

The Basement Remodel Guys basement remodeling company offers efficient service so that you can make the most of your investment. When you get personal attention from finished basement contractor, there will be a great facelift to your basement. The remodeling will happen as per modern styles so that the available space will be utilized in optimum way and it is possible to meet the latest safety guidelines. When you get a quick estimate and the availability of the service, you can make an informed choice.

Basement Remodel Guys basement remodeling

Basement Remodel Guys offers attractive basement remodeling services. When you call 800-590-6364, you will get more information about the basement services, plans and strategies. There will not be any hidden charges. There will be detailed and written proposals so that there will not be any conflict of interests in future. You can get assistance in selecting the details as well. You can discuss your home improvement ideas with basement remodeling contractors so that realistic solutions will be offered.

Responsive modeling services

Professional basement modeling specialists will deliver services as per your needs. You can contact 800-590-6364 so that you can understand about latest services and availability of new services. The licensed, bonded and insured basement modeling contractors will ensure that you will get best value for the money.

Safety standards

The Basement Remodel Guys offers highest level of safety standards. The home building services are customized as per your needs. The accessible and responsive professionals can deal with your issues and you will get clarity on services. Finished basement contractor will ensure that standards are maintained so that the design will be safe and sound.

Highest levels of integrity

Basement remodeling contractors are provided to customers as per their needs. The contractors had executed numerous residential and commercial contracts so that your basement will be treated in a most effective way and it will be done in the shortest possible time. You will be exposed to numerous basement plans so that the most appropriate plan can be chosen. Finished basement company will ensure that all your needs are fulfilled in an effortless manner.

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Basement Remodel Guys | Call 800-590-6364

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Freehold, NJ

Its EASY with Restore The Shore Contracting LLC! Our professionals will transform youre unfinished basement into an area you can enjoy for many years to come! Our knowledge and craftsmanship are unmatched. Just Click Here to see what ourcustomers say about us! Browse our Video Librarypage where most of your questions can be answered upfront. Our Basement finishing packages are set up with youre unique personality and taste in mind. Quality & Affordable Pricing thats Restore The Shore Contracting LLC!When you schedule an In-Home Consultation, we will come out and evaluate your project. We will explain all youre options and tailor an estimate based on your needs and budget.Easy and hassle-free! Give us a call today!

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New Jersey Basement Remodeler| Finished basement renovations in New Jersey NJ Basement Company | Basement Remodeling

Experienced custom finished basement contractor serving ALL OF NEW JERSEY & Eastern PA

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NJ Basement Remodeling

Find the nearest Basement Finishing System Installer.

Please enter a zip code or postal code in a nearby area.

Basement Finishing System Unlimited panels are breathable and wont trap moisture, reducing the chances of rot and mold growth.*

What would you do with an extra room in your house? Basement Finishing System Unlimited can transform your wasted space into an office, a play room, a family room, or a home theater, for less than the cost of building an addition.

Dont trap your plumbing and other mechanical equipment behind drywall. Basement Finishing System Unlimited panels remove easily for quick access to your foundation walls.

The Owens Corning Basement Finishing System Unlimited is installed by a certified installer who can transform your basement in about two weeks, so you get a new room instead of a lengthy construction project. Best of all, its backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty.**

The Basement Finishing System Unlimited features insulated panels that keep out cold and control sound to make rooms quieter, so you can use your basement to watch movies or as a kids playroom without disturbing the rest of the house.

The Basement Finishing System Unlimited panels are paintable and resemble the look of drywall.

Mouse over the hotspots to learn more about the Owens Corning Basement Finishing System

Make your basement living space as unique as you are with the new Owens Corning Basement Finishing System Unlimited. The new system features many of the great benefits as the Original Fabric Basement Finishing System, but IT CAN BE PAINTED! The new Basement Finishing System Unlimited allows you to customize your basement space by allowing you to paint it, just as you would a space finished with drywall. But unlike drywall, The Owens Corning Basement Finishing System Unlimited absorbs sound and resists mold and mildew. Once you take some time to compare The Owens Corning Basement Finishing System Unlimited to drywall and other systems out in the market, youll see that theres really no comparison!

Click here to learn more!

Nancy Kerrigan and her family had a drywall basement constructed approximately 15 years ago and used it often. Over time, the basement started to smell musty and also became moldy. They knew they had to do something soon to get their basement back in a livable condition!

A few months ago, Nancy and her family visited their local fair, saw the Owens Corning Basement Finishing System booth, and decided to inquire more online when they got home. After doing some research on our product and seeing what we had to offer, they realized this was the perfect fit for their familys lifestyle. They were ready to get their basement space back for their three kids to enjoy!

We caught the entire transformation on camera, from the drywall tear-out to the completed Owens Corning Basement Finishing System! A BIG Thank You to Nancy and her family for sharing their story with us!

If you are looking to remodel your basement utilizing a product that provides an assortment of practical benefits, consider installing the Owens Corning Basement Finishing System. Reviews from many homeowners show that the innovative features of this system can provide several advantages over drywall. Thats because the Basement Finishing System has been designed specifically for use in the basement environment.

See what homeowners are saying

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Owens Corning Basement Finishing System

Basement floors can be troublesome as they made be uneven, prone to moisture or just plain cold. So be sure to take proper steps to level your basement floor, add vapor barriers or consider heated floors to enjoy your remodeled basement.

You may also want to take into account a flooring types ability to survive a flood, burst pipe or other high water issues to which basements can be victim. But once you settle those concerns, you have plenty of options for basement flooring from the classic carpet and vinyl to more modern cork and floating floors.

Concrete

Increasing numbers of homeowners decide to enhance the existing concrete in their basement instead of covering it up. Stained and painted concrete floors offer many benefits, including their suitability for people with allergies. Skilled contractors can reproduce the look of slate, tile and marble, or they can apply dyes, paints and stencils in a variety of designs.

While decorative concrete may cost more than some other types of flooring, its proponents point to the long life expectancy of this material. Even cracks in the floor can be considered an attractive rustic feature as long as they do not reflect structural problems. Those concerned by the slippery nature of high-gloss sealers can add a non-slip additive to sealer or stain before application.

This basement utilizes tile flooring in the kitchen and bar area and carpet for the living space. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Rajinder S.)

Carpet

Carpeting remains a popular flooring option for finished basements because of its warmth underfoot. As long as the basement is moisture-free, carpet is a practical option for many homeowners. The cost of carpet and padding varies widely, depending on quality.

Benefits of carpet include the variety of colors and styles available, its sound-muffling qualities and many pricing options. Drawbacks include wear in traffic areas, increased maintenance in comparison to hard flooring options and its inability to survive a flooding event.

Ceramic tile

Reasonably priced ceramic tiles come in a multitude of styles and colors and can be arranged in a custom pattern of the homeowners choosing. Flooring tiles are very durable, stain-resistant, impervious to moisture and easy to maintain. Drawbacks include coldness and the tendency of grout to discolor over time.

Cork

Cork is an eco-friendly flooring material that can be installed over an existing floor or concrete. Cork is derived from the bark of the cork tree, meaning trees are not cut down during harvesting. Cork flooring is durable and has good insulating qualities, but if you choose cork flooring for your basement, make sure you choose a type that is recommended for a basement environment as not all cork flooring is appropriate for basements.

It resists mold, mildew and rot and is easy to clean and maintain. These floors require an acrylic finish to prevent scratches. A polyurethane coat will extend the life of this flooring, and it should be reapplied after 10 years in situations featuring normal wear and tear.

Engineered wood

Engineered wood consists of layered plywood that looks like hardwood but is thinner, more durable and water-resistant. Advantages include the ability to expand and contract with changes in moisture and temperature. The fact that it comes pre-finished is a benefit for many homeowners.

Drawbacks include cost and the fact that it may be refinished only once due to the thinness of its veneer. Maintenance consists of vacuuming and damp mopping. Standing water must be mopped up immediately.

Linoleum

Linoleum is another environmentally friendly flooring option for basements. Homeowners looking for numerous design options and ease of maintenance will enjoy linoleum. Drawbacks include a tendency to stain because of its porous nature and a lack of warmth under the feet. This flooring material is durable, but when damage does occur, repairs can be difficult.

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Basement Remodeling | Angies List

Planning and getting started

Your basement can be more than a utility and storage area. With some forethought and good techniques, you can make it as warm, comfortable and inviting as any other room in the house. But, make no mistake about it: Finishing a basement is a big job. In this article, we'll focus on the framing and some unique problems, such as:

Get started by making a scale drawing of your plans to submit to your local building inspections department. Your plan should include wall dimensions, window and door sizes, and each room's purpose (e.g., family, bedroom, etc.) along with any special features like fireplaces. Some rooms may require large windows, called egress windows, for fire safety. Ask your building inspector if you need them. Also measure the future finished ceiling height and low-hanging pipes or ducts that'll lower headroom. Sketch the details of the exterior wall construction you intend to use as we show in this article. If youre uncertain about the best use of space, hire an architect to help with the design. The permit itself will outline at what stages inspections are required. If you choose to do your own electrical work, draw up and submit that plan as well. With your plan and permit in hand, clear everything out of the basement and you're ready to go. Walk around the basement with caulk and cans of spray foam and plug every gap you can find between framing and masonry and around pipes or wires that penetrate the rim joist or exterior walls. This is your last chance to seal air leaks from the inside.

If you have a wet or damp basement, you must deal with the problem before you get started. To tell if walls are damp from exterior water or just condensation from humid interior air, tape a 2-ft. square sheet of plastic to the masonry. If moisture collects on the front of the plastic, you have condensation. The method we show for finishing will take care of that problem. If moisture collects on the backside after a few days, then water is wicking through the foundation wall from outside. The basement should be treated the same as if it were leaky. If you have regular seepage or water puddling after storms (even once every few years), you have to fix it permanently before finishing. Remedies for damp or wet basements can be as simple as rerouting downspouts, regrading slopes away from foundation walls, or applying water-resistant paints to interior surfaces. As a last resort, hire a pro to install perimeter drains and a sump pump. The bottom line is that it's senseless to spend time and money finishing a basement if leaks or moisture will ruin your work or cause mold to grow.

Cut 3/4-in. extruded polystyrene insulation to fit against the rim joists. Spread a 1/4-in. bead of adhesive on masonry walls and press the sheets into place.

Caulk all gaps and seams between the framing and the foam along the rim joists with more foam to seal potential air leaks.

Snap chalk lines 4 in. away from the insulation on the exterior walls. Then cut 2x4 bottom and top plates and lay out stud locations every 16 in. on each plate.

Squeeze a 1/4-in. bead of construction adhesive to bottom plates and position them. Then predrill with a hammer drill and anchor them with concrete screws.

Nail 2x4 blocking about every 3 ft. into the first floor joist to support the top plate. Toe-screw them to the rim joist through the foam.

Plumb from the edge of the bottom plate to the blocking with a straight 2x4 and level. Snap a chalk lin and screw the top plate to the blocking with 3-in. screws.

Measure between the plates at each layout mark and cut each stud to length. Then toenail the studs into place at the top and bottom with two 8d (2-3/8 in.) nails in one side and a third centered on the other side.

Cut half-wall studs so the finished wall is slightly taller than the masonry. Then lay out the stud locations on the plate and nail the studs in place with 16d nails.

Tip the knee walls up and fasten them to the floor. Then fasten blocks through the foam into the masonry at every third stud with 3-in. concrete screws. Plumb and screw the studs to the blocking for a solid wall.

Start the job by gluing 3/4-in. extruded foam insulation to rim joists and foundation walls (Photo 1). Extruded polystyrene foam (imprinted on each sheet; see Photo 5) can be yellow, pink or blue depending on the manufacturer. Avoid expanded foam insulation (the type that has little white beads pressed together) because it isn't as durable and has a lower R-value. Make cuts by snapping chalk lines to mark and then score it with a utility knife as deep as the blade will penetrate. Then snap the sheet just like you cut drywall. Carefully cut around obstructions and fill spaces with small chunks of foam wherever it's needed, working for tight fits. Then caulk seams and gaps to seal against air infiltration (Photo 2). You'll add fiberglass later for a higher R-value. The foam greatly reduces heat transfer through the masonry and framing, and it eliminates the need for a plastic moisture barrier later. Be sure to use adhesive formulated for use with foam (about $3 per tube). Conventional construction adhesive won't work.

Next frame the stud walls 1/2 in. away from the foam (or more if your foundation's uneven). We show the stick framingmethod of wall building. That means that you cut, lay out and install the top and bottom 2x4s (plates) first (Photos 3 6). Then you'll custom-cut the studs to length and toenail them into place (Photo 7). This method is great for basements because it makes it easy to frame around overhead obstructions and customize stud lengths to handle uneven floors. It can be tough to preframe a wall (as you would normally do with a shed or addition) and raise it in place with a floor overhead. Be sure to use pressure-treated wood for any wood that has contact with concrete surfaces.

Lay out stud locations by laying both plates side by side and then hook your tape measure on one end and mark studs every 16 in. For walls longer than 8 ft., subtract 3/4 in. from each location (e.g., 15-1/4, 31-1/4 in., etc.). That's so drywall will fall in the center of studs. Otherwise, the sheets will fall just short of a stud at each joint.

To position the top plate, tape your level to a straight 2x4 and mark the blocks or joists at either end of the wall. Then snap a chalk line between them. Top plates that run perpendicular to floor joists can be nailed (with 16d nails) or screwed (with 3-in. screws) to the bottom of every other joist. If walls run parallel to floor joists, you'll need to nail or screw blocking in between the floor joists about every 3 ft. or so (Photo 5). For most, running in screws is easier than overhead nailing. Likewise, it's easier to predrill and drive concrete screws rather than pound in concrete nails when fastening bottom plates.

When you're framing half walls (Photo 8), make all of the studs the same length and cut them so the wall will be even with the top of the masonry. The wall may be uneven because of floor inconsistencies, but you can always sight along the top plate and then shim it until it's flat before installing the finished top cap. When plumbing the top of the half wall (Photo 9), be sure to sight along its entire length to make sure it's straight.

Snap a chalk line 2 in. below the lowest portion of ductwork or piping and nail a 2x4 to the wall studs at that point.

Rip 1/2-in. plywood strips to the depth of the soffit (see next photo) and screw 2x2s even with both edges with 1-5/8 in. screws.

Snap a chalk line on the floor joists 2-1/2 in. away from the nearest obstruction and parallel to the wall. Position the assembly along the chalk line and fasten it to the bottom of the floor joists with 3-in. screws.

String a line even with the inside edge of the plywood and use it to determine exact lookout lengths. Nail them in place every 16 in.

Most basements have ductwork and plumbing mounted at the ceiling along an existing wall. Boxing in those pipes and ducts and then drywalling the assembly is the best way to conceal them. The whole structure is called a soffit. Begin by measuring to the floor to find the lowest pipe or duct in the room; that'll define how low the soffit must be. Mark a point 2 in. lower on the wall to allow space for the framing and drywall (Photo 1) and nail on a 2x4 nailing strip using the chalk line to position the bottom of the strip. Then snap another line on the bottom of the joists with a 2-1/2 in. clearance. It's easiest to preassemble the 8-ft. long soffit side sections and screw them to the bottom of the floor joists (Photos 2 and 3). If soffits end at walls, build the walls first.

Mark both sides of partition walls with chalk lines, then center and nail 2x6 backer boards in walls that they join.

Cut the plates and lay out stud positions every 16 in. Mark the door rough opening as well (see Photo 3).

Assemble the wall as shown in Photos 5 7. Use 81-in. trimmers and a single flat 2x4 header over doors. Then measure, cut and nail in header cripples. Finish cutting out bottom plates in door openings with a handsaw.

Partition walls are any walls that aren't against exterior foundation walls or walls that support floors above. Lay out partition walls by snapping chalk lines to mark both sides of the bottom plates (Photo 1). That keeps you from building walls on the wrong side of single lines! Mark door openings on the floor (Photo 2) to avoid putting glue under doors. Frame partition walls as you did the outside walls, again installing blocking between joists wherever it's needed. Add 2x6 backers on walls that meet partitions (Photo 1). They provide support and nailers for drywall. Before you tie the partition walls to exterior stud walls (non-masonry, without foam), staple 2-ft. wide strips of polyethylene over the 2x6 backers (Photo 2). That way you'll be able to seal this type of outside wall with a continuous moisture barrier in cooler climate zones.

In a basement, the top and bottom plates are often different lengths. That's because top plates may project past foundation walls and be longer or run into soffits and be shorter. (See both cases in Photo 3.) When you line up the plates to mark stud locations, be sure to account for differences (Photo 2).

Frame the door openings 2-1/2 in. higher and 2-1/2 in. wider than the door you're installing. This rough opening allows adequate space for the door plus its frame. Use a regular stud plus a trimmer on each side of the door (Photo 3). If you have low headroom, you may need to cut your doors down or special-order shorter ones. Remember to allow overhead space for the door trim. Trim that's either missing or ripped too narrow over doors with inadequate clearance will really detract from the appearance of the room.

TIP: Partially cut through the underside of the bottom plate at the edges of the door rough opening to make removal easier later on.

Frame around ceiling valves with 2x2s and leave an access hole in the drywall. Cover it with an air grate.

Frame around protruding plumbing with 2x6s nailed to adjoining studs. Frame cleanouts for an access panel.

Fur down ceilings with 2x4s so the drywall will conceal surface-mounted pipes and/or wires.

Nearly every basement has something that will project past finished surfaces. That can include beams, posts, drain lines, water piping or surface mounted wires. Its a simple matter to frame or fur out around projections and then drywall and finish them to blend in with surrounding surfaces. You'll have to maintain access to other things like electrical junction boxes and plumbing shutoffs and cleanouts. If you need future access to anything, just frame around it and cut out the opening when you drywall (Photo 1). Then, after taping and painting, screw a return air grate over the opening to conceal it but still have access. Return air grates are available in various sizes for about $5 at home centers. Check the sizes of available grates and frame the accesses slightly smaller.

Sometimes furring down part of or the entire ceiling is the best way to bury surface-mounted pipes or wires. Use either 2x4s or 2x2s running perpendicular to the joists to add 1-1/2 in. of dead space so you can drywall over the top of everything (Photo 3). Be sure to run all the wiring and other things you might want before hanging the drywall.

If you have a lot of deep projections from the ceiling or you need a lot of access, consider installing a suspended ceiling rather than drywalling. The downside is that you'll lose at least a few additional inches of ceiling height.

Finish round steel columns by framing around them with 2x4s. You can then face the framing with drywall or decorative wood as shown in the opening photo.

More:
How to Finish a Basement: Framing and Insulating - Family ...

Warning signs that you have waterproofing problems in your basement

Mold and Mildew Fungus that grows in damp and dark areas, and cause discoloration, or musty odors.

Moldy Odors This is the result of the decay process from mold, and dry rot.

Peeling Paint Peeling paint is a sign that you have moisture problems and waterproofing issues.

Damp Spots on Walls Water has absorbed through your walls.

White Substance on Basement Walls This is a chemical breakdown of the bonding agent that holds your walls together. This white substance is a sign of possible structural deterioration.

Cracked Walls Should be inspected to determine the exact cause.

Rust on Appliances or Furniture Like furnaces. Rust is caused by a wet environment and is the sign of waterproofing issues.

Dry Rot Black fungus grows mostly on walls or wooden surfaces, causing wood to decay.

To find toxic black mold solutions, visit StartRemodeling

You can use a waterproofing concrete sealer like HyrdaLoc and Homeseal. HomeSeal is formulated for new concrete only while HyrdaLoc is formulated for water problems or old concrete.

HyrdaLoc is a two-application process that is simply sprayed onto the concrete with a low-pressure (garden type) pump sprayer. You don't have to be afraid to use HyrdaLoc in your home because it is Non-toxic, Non-hazardous and Non-flammable. It has No VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) - No Solvents. HyrdaLoc is a water-based, fast drying, penetrating concrete sealer that has no unpleasant odor. Clean-up is with clean tap water.

HyrdaLoc does a lot more than just waterproof your concrete. It solves potential health problems associated with a damp or wet basement. Migrating moisture creates a breeding ground for mold spores and mildew not to mention that "damp basement odor". It can greatly reduce the health risks associated with the transmission of Cancer Causing Radon. It stops Radon before it enters your home unlike fan systems that allow it in and then vent it back outside.

Whether you are finishing your basement to convert it into usable living space or just using it for storage, applying HyrdaLoc concrete waterproofing sealer will make the basement a useable, pleasant, safe and odor free area.

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A wet cellar can dramatically reduce the value of your home. Studies show that most people won't even consider buying a home with water leakage. Selling a home with water leaks can easily result in as much as a 25% reduction in the sale price.

Even if you rarely have problems with dampness or flooding, it's best to solve the problem completely before doing any remodeling work. Permanent solutions can take time to implement. A good place to start is to talk to an independent home inspector who specializes in waterproofing problems.

Proper insulation is critical to creating a comfortable, dry basement. Besides keeping out the cold, basement insulation prevents condensation. The ground stays cool year round. It in turn keeps basement walls cool. When the warmer air in the room comes in contact with all those cool walls, it has to give up some of its moisture in the form of condensation. In fact, condensation is the primary source of the moisture that causes mold and mildew problems in basements. Effective insulation separates the warm air of the room from the cool walls, thereby preventing the moisture problems that stem from condensation. (see below the top-10 most common insulation mistakes in basements)

Perhaps the most fundamental and often overlooked mistake do-it-yourselfers make when insulating is neglecting to find out the most efficient R-value for their area and insulating accordingly. Other common mistakes are listed below.

1. Not providing for good air circulation between the roof and the insulation.

2. Installing fiberglass batting with the paper side (vapor barrier) facing toward the outside instead of toward the heated area.

3. Omitting a vapor barrier, which prevents accumulation of moisture between the batting and the underside of the roof or wall.

4. Puncturing the vapor barrier unnecessarily, or neglecting to puncture the vapor barrier of the top batt when installing two layers.

5. Distorting, compressing, or squeezing the fiberglass batt insulation out of shape.

6. Using paper-faced batting against a heat source like a chimney, a heating duct, etc.

7. Neglecting to get into all of the small spaces and corners with the insulation.

8. Covering eaves vents with insulation, thereby cutting off ventilation.

9. Making unnecessary trips up and down the attic stairs during installation. Assemble all tools and equipment in your work area prior to beginning the job.

10. Not using closed-cell (waterproof), rigid foam insulation panels on below grade installations

To Step Two: Basement Finishing Ideas

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Waterproofing Tips For Your Basement Remodel

Matrix Basement Systems offers an eco-friendly, paperless, seamless smooth panel advanced basement system that allows homeowners to design basements using their own personal style. Our unique process for finishing seams eliminates unsightly divider strips and vinyl tape. Our seamless panels connect so beautifully they are completely indistinguishable from the walls in the rest of your home.

Having been in business since 2009, we have helped turn over 1,300 basements into usable areas. Not only are we a basement finishing company, but we are also the manufacturer of the products we sell and install. We will work one-on-one with you to be sure that you are getting exactly what you want out of your basement remodeling project. We can provide you with wall panels to help turn this area of your home into a functional, comfortable, and inviting place.

Basement finishing is a cost-effective alternative to building a home addition. You can choose to use this solution to add on more living space to your home. We often see homeowners renovating the basement to add on extra bedrooms, a home office, a home gym, a family room, or a place to entertain guests. You have a wide variety of options to choose from when you are doing this kind of project, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

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