asement Ideas: Exploring the underground frontier" was created to share basement finishing ideas I've learned over the years.
We’ve been in business since 1992 as general contractors and have over 150 completed basement finishing projects to our credit. These days, basements are all I do.
"Basement Ideas" was created to fill a void. Many of the people I met told me: “There is nothing out there – you should do something about it.” Well, I did.
Have you been looking for a magazine or even a booklet devoted entirely to finishing basements? Something to show you what to do, what others have done?
It seems there are hundreds of magazines devoted to bathrooms, kitchens, room additions and new home construction. You see these all the time at supermarket check out lines and home remodeling centers. However, just try to find something devoted to basements. Can’t find anything? Can’t find anything good? That's what happened to me when I thought I would find some good reference materials to recommend. What I did find was not satisfactory. Worse yet, I came across publications containing advice that totally contradicted my real world experience.
Much of what I uncovered regarding basement finishing and remodeling ideas was written ala “How-to” style. However, most people I met did not need to know "how". Either they were already experienced "do-it-yourselfers" or, they were people who had no intention of ever remodeling their basements themselves. What was needed and wanted were tips, ideas, and solutions others had come up with in similar situations in the planning phase.
The how-to books do a good job of telling you how to frame a wall. Hang and tape drywall, or install a ceiling. What they don't have is design direction.
“I’ve got this duct box here, what do I do with it?” or “How do I incorporate this pole so there is less dead space in my basement?” “What cool thing can I do to make my basement unique?”
This is where "Basement Ideas" comes in. We fill in those missing gaps by showing you what we've done in those same situations. "Basement Ideas" will get your creative mind flowing by showing you our solutions. Simply apply what you've seen to your project.
Here are some of the highlights:
- In plain and simple English, I show you how we achieve an optimum design. If you are computer savvy and wish to use some simple CAD software, there's help on that too.
- You'll learn about vapor barriers, what to do, what not to do.
- A simple way of wiring your home surround sound system
- Look for the write-up on constructing a simple bar. This is the method we've been using for years.
- A detailed description of how one of our most unique basement bathrooms was designed and some of the challenges involved.
- There are numerous "Quicktips" throughout. Little things to think of and keep in mind as you plan your basement.
- I've included some unique ways of creating crawlspace access that you may wish to pursue.
- Use our new system of creating access in drywall ceilings. This solves all the problems.
- If you are considering a Home Fitness room then this chapter is a must for you. Tips and things you'll want to know BEFORE you do anything. It may save you from buying the wrong equipment and wasting money.
There are plenty of photos that illustrate what we're talking about.
Our first chapter entitled "Planning" is available as a free sample. You'll also receive the Table of Contents so you can see all the issues discussed.
Here are some of the comments we received:
Here are some of the comments we received:
asement Ideas: Exploring the underground frontier" was created to share basement finishing ideas I've learned over the years.