Basement Finishing Checklist

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Plan & Permits

Assess moisture situation

Check for water stains, efflorescence, or musty smells. Address before finishing.

Plan your layout

Measure ceiling height, locate utilities, plan rooms. Work around existing obstacles.

Pull necessary permits

Check local codes. Most basement finishes require building, electrical, and plumbing permits.

Finalize budget

Budget $20,000-$50,000 for full finish. Add 20% contingency for surprises.

Create material list

List lumber, drywall, insulation, flooring. Order in phases to avoid clutter.

Moisture Control

Seal foundation cracks

Fill cracks with hydraulic cement or epoxy injection. Prevents water intrusion.

Apply waterproof coating

Paint walls with waterproof masonry sealer. Creates moisture barrier.

Check exterior drainage

Ensure gutters direct water away. Grade slopes away from foundation.

Install or test sump pump

Essential for keeping basement dry. Test existing or install new with battery backup.

Run dehumidifier test

Run dehumidifier for 2 weeks. Monitor humidity levels. Should stay below 60%.

Framing

Layout wall locations

Snap chalk lines on floor for all walls. Double-check measurements and square.

Frame exterior walls

Build walls with 2x4 studs 16" on center. Use pressure-treated bottom plates on concrete.

Frame interior partition walls

Build room dividers, closets, and utility room walls. Standard 2x4 studs 16" on center.

Frame rough openings

Build door and window openings with proper headers and king studs.

Install headers and blocking

Add headers over openings and blocking for grab bars, shelves, TV mounts.

Inspection: Framing

Schedule framing inspection before running wires or insulation.

Mechanical

Plan electrical layout

Mark all outlets, switches, and lights. Code requires outlets every 12 feet.

Rough-in electrical

Run cables through studs, install boxes. Leave 6-8" wire at each box.

Rough-in plumbing (if needed)

Run water supply and drain lines for bathroom or wet bar. Slope drains 1/4" per foot.

Extend HVAC ducts

Tap into existing ductwork or add mini-split system for heating and cooling.

Install return air vents

Add return air for proper circulation. One return per 150-200 sq ft recommended.

Insulate exterior walls

Install R-13 or R-15 fiberglass or foam board on foundation walls.

Inspection: Mechanical

Schedule electrical and plumbing rough-in inspection before closing walls.

Drywall

Hang drywall sheets

Use 1/2" drywall for walls, 5/8" for ceilings. Screw every 12" on studs.

Tape and mud seams

Apply paper tape and joint compound. Let dry between coats. 3 coats minimum.

Sand walls smooth

Sand all seams and screw holes. Use sanding pole and dust mask.

Prime all surfaces

Apply drywall primer/sealer to walls and ceiling. Creates uniform surface for paint.

Flooring

Prep concrete floor

Clean thoroughly, check for level. Patch cracks and low spots with floor leveler.

Choose basement flooring

Best options: luxury vinyl plank, engineered hardwood, or tile. Avoid solid hardwood.

Install subfloor system

Use DRIcore or similar raised subfloor panels. Provides insulation and moisture barrier.

Install finish flooring

Install LVP, engineered wood, or tile. Follow manufacturer's installation guide.

Consider area rugs

Add warmth and define spaces with rugs. Use non-slip pads on hard floors.

Finishing

Paint walls and ceiling

Two coats on walls, one on ceiling. Use mold-resistant paint for basements.

Install baseboards and trim

Add baseboards, door casings, and crown molding. Caulk gaps, paint or stain.

Hang interior doors

Install prehung doors. Shim plumb and square. Add hardware.

Install light fixtures

Mount ceiling lights, wall sconces, and recessed cans. Turn off power first.

Install outlets and switches

Wire devices, attach to boxes, add cover plates. Test all circuits.

Add final fixtures

Install bathroom fixtures, towel bars, shelving, closet organizers.

Final Touches

Final inspection

Schedule final building inspection. Inspector checks all work meets code.

Furnish the space

Add furniture, rugs, curtains. Create functional, inviting living areas.

Add finishing touches

Hang artwork, add plants, style shelves. Make the space feel like home.

Enjoy your new space

Host friends, relax, enjoy the extra living area you created.

Need more?

Basement Prep 1-2 weeks Basement Bathroom 2-4 weeks Home Theater 1-2 months