FINISHINGBASEMENTS

Step-by-stepProjectsforAdding

LivingSpaceWithoutAddingOn

MINNEAPOLIS,MINNESOTAwww.creativepub.com

Contents

TheCompleteGuidetoFinishingBasements

Introduction

REMODELINGBASICS

Evaluating&PlanningBasementPossibilitiesEvaluatingYourBasementRemodelingCodes&PracticesPlanningYourProjectImprovingBasementEnvironmentsControllingMoistureControllingPestsInsulatingBasementsImprovingHeating&CoolingUpgradingVentilationAddingElectricalCircuitsFloorsPreparingBasementFloorsCreatingDecorativeConcreteFinishesInstallingRadiantFloors

LayingTileFloorsInstallingLaminatePlankFloorsLayingResilientTileFloorsInstallingRubberRollFloorsLayingCarpetWalls&CeilingsWall&CeilingOptionsFramingFurred-OutWallsBuildingPartitionWallsFramingWallswithSteelStudsFramingSoffitsInstallingDrywallFinishingDrywallInstallingPanelingInstallingaSuspendedCeilingInstallinganAcousticTileCeilingWindows,Doors&TrimInstallinganEgressWindowReplacingBasementWindowsTrimmingBasementWindowsInstallingPrehungInteriorDoorsInstallingPocketDoorsInstallingBifoldDoorsInstallingWalkoutPatioDoorsInstallingMoldingBASEMENTROOMSBasementRoomProjects

BathroomGuestBedroomFamilyRoomLaundryCenterWineCellarGymHomeOfficeBuilt-inBarConversionChartsResources&PhotoCreditsIndex

Introduction

The modern basement is a far cry from the musty,low-ceilingedrootcellarsandcisternscarvedoutbeneathour homes around the turn of the last century. Ourseemingly unquenchable thirst for more space in ourhomeshascausedhomedesigners,builders,andownersto squeeze every possible square foot of living spacefromourhouses.And this effort tomaximize spacehasfocused attention squarely on the basement. No longertheexclusivehabitatofutilityrooms,workshops,andtheoccasional bar and party room, today’s basements haveopened up to the full gamut of space usage. Familyrooms, bedrooms, wine cellars, home gyms, hometheaters,offices...ifthereisadedicatedroomfordoingit,youcaneasilyfinditinthebasement.Duringthelastyearsofthe1990sandthefirstyearsof

thiscentury,newhomeconstructionboomed.Contractorsdeveloped new efficiencies that enabled them to erecthouseswithunprecedented speedso theycouldkeepupwithdemand.Oneofthesestrategieswastoforegotime-consuming finishingwhere theycould, and inparticularin the basement. As a result, hundreds of thousands ofhomeswerebuiltwithanunfinishedbasement.Thiswasa benefit for the homebuyers as well because it shavedseveral thousand dollars off the construction price in amarketwhere costswere soaring.And, being by nature

ambitious, new homeowners everywhere vowed to takeonthechallengeoffinishingtheirbasementsthemselves.If you are among the new homeowners whose

basement is an empty spacewith a few plumbing stub-outsandlittleelsebutpotential,thisbookisforyou.Inityou’ll find answers to all of the questions you haveundoubtedly formed as you’ve dreamt about the manyoptions that await you below the grade. If you own anolderhousewithabasementthathasbeenfinishedafewdecadesagobut isbadly inneedof anupdate,youwillalso find the information you need in the pages ofTheCompleteGuidetoFinishingBasements.Fromdesigntoplanningandexecution,weshowyouinvividdetail thestepsyou’ll need to take to expandyour living space inbeautifulnewways.When you’re remodeling a house, just about

everythingchangesonceyougetbelowground.Mostofthe unique challenges found in basement building arerelated to water and moisture issues. But other factorscome into play as well: access, ventilation, clearances,andegressarejustafewofthem.Alloftheinformationin this book is reported with the specific demands ofbasement remodeling in mind so you can be confidentwhen using it for guidance. Creating comfortable newlivingspaceinyourbasementisaveryrewardingwaytoexpandthehorizonsofyourhousewhileaddingvaluebyincreasingtheassessablesquarefootage.

REMODELINGBASICS

Evaluating&Planning

Planningabasementremodelingprojectisadifferentprocess than planning an addition or even a routineremodeling project in the upper-level living spaces. Inbasements,youtypicallydonothavetheoptionofaddingfloorspace,andyoumustconfrontthefact thatsomeoftheexistingspacemaynotbesuitableforremodeling(nomatterhowmuchyouwantittobe).Sotoagreatextenttheplanningprocessmustbeginwithasoberevaluationof the basement. Howmuch of the space is potentiallyinhabitable and how much must continue to serve aspecific utility function, such as housing the furnace orthe laundry machines? Will you be able to provideadequate egress (means of escape) in all areas? If not,howdoesthatlimitthekindsofroomsyoumaybuild?In basements you will face the inevitable issue of

water. Even in brand new homes, basements are morehumid than the rest of the house.And the fact that youseenosignsofwaterinfiltrationtodaydoesnotguaranteethat the floors andwallswill be dry tomorrow.Do youneedtoconsidertheprobabilityoffutureproblemswhenyouareselectingwall, floor,andceiling treatments?Byaskingandanswering theseandotherquestionsupfront

you canplan anddesign a basement remodelingprojectthat meets your needs, satisfies local codes, and is notfilledwithsurprises.Inthischapter:

BasementPossibilitiesEvaluatingYourBasementRemodelingCodes&PracticesPlanningYourProjects

BasementPossibilities

What do you want your basement to look like? Isthere amissing room in your house that you’ve alwaysdreamedabouthaving?Abasementbar?Afamilyroom?Aguestbedroom?Awinecellar?Perhapsahometheateror a state-of the-art workshop. As long as you do therequired work to make the basement space safe andcomfortable, there isvirtuallyno limit to thenumberoffinishingpossibilities.Themostpopularbasementroomsareafamily/recroomandabedroom.Witheachofthese,abasementbathroomisagoodfit—even if it isasmallhalf-bath.Family rooms: Parents love basement family rooms

formany reasons,chiefamong them that theysegregatethe mess and noise that tends to follow kids. If yourbasementhasawalkoutlevel(averycommonsetup),youcancreateaneasytransitionbetweenindoorandoutdoorplayareaswithasimplepatiodoor.Ifyouenjoyhavingfriends over for backyard cookouts or to watch a ballgame,abasementrecroomisaperfectplace,anditcanusually be located with easy access to the grill.Basementstendtostaycoolinthesummer,whichmakesthe family room a great place for kids to hang out onsummerbreak.Butaddagasfireplaceandyoucanmaketheroomacozygatheringplaceinwinteraswell.Bedrooms:Abasementbedroomisadreamcometrue

for many kids, especially as they enter their teens. Itoffers enough distance frommom and dad yet is closeenough that kids still feel secure. And if the bedroomhappens to be located next to a family roomwith a bigscreen TV and full video hookups, your basement willquicklybecome sleepover central.Abasement bedroomisalsoagreatlocationforaguestbedroom,perhapsevenonethatdoesdoubledutyasacraftroomorhomeoffice.Otherrooms:Someroomsarenaturallyathomeina

basement.This is especially true for rooms that supportnoisyormessyactivities:aworkshop,ahometheater,alaundryroom,oranartstudio.Someroomsbenefitfromthe relative coolness of a basement. Among them arewinecellars(withtastingtablesofcourse),pantries,andgeneralstoragespace. Ifyouorsomeone inyour familyenjoysanactivitythatishighimpact,findingaspotforitin the basement is a good solution for everyone. Abasement gym, a practice room for the band, a dancestudio, or even ametal shop all fit better in abasementenvironmentthaninotherareasofyourhouse.Dreamrooms:Basements,especiallyinnewerhomes,

offer large spaces that canbe claimed for big rooms.Adreamspaandbathwithajettedtubandsauna;abilliardslounge, where you actually have enough room tomakeunobstructedshots;ahomeforyourmodelrailroad;ahottubpartyroom;theoptionsarevirtuallyendless.

Afullkitcheninthebasementisabitunusual,butifyou’vealwaysdreamtofbeingabletoworkinanOlympic-sizedkitchen,youmayfindthatanunfinishedbasementisthebestspottofindthefloorspaceyouneed.Astate-of-the-artventilationsystemisacrucialelementifyouinstallakitchenunderground.Andunlessyou’reintendingtoaddabasementdiningroom,besuretoallocatesomeofthefloorspaceforadiningtableorabanquette.

Abasementroomdoesn’thavetobearoomatall.Here,aquietcornerbeneathastaircaseisfinishedouttocreateanintimatereadingandconversationspot.Moreofastoppingoffpointthanaroom,itneverthelessaddsanewdimensiontothelivingspaceinthishome.Italsomakesuseofalovelywindowthat’stuckedinabovethekneewallfoundation.

Afinishedbasementcanbeasingleroomorawholeseriesofrooms,asisthecasewiththelivingsuiteseenhere.Byapplyingthesamedecorativeelementsthroughoutthesuite,thehomeownerswereabletoreinforcetheoveralldesignandcreateafeelingofopennessthatcarriesfromroomtoroom.

Asunkenfeelingisanaturaleffectofabasementroom,asinthissittingroomthatisveryreminiscentofa1970s-erasunkenlivingroom.Warmneutralcolorsandaninvitingfireplacesuccessfullyfightbackagainstthecoldnessthatcanconsumeabasement.

Letyourimaginationrunwildinyourbasement.Yourdesignsensibilitiesmaybeconstrainedbyconventioninthemoreformalareasofyourhouse,butwhenyou’redecoratingyourremodeledbasement,youcanreachdeepintoyourbagofdesigntricksandpullinthecolorsandstylesthatletyouexpressyourselffully.

Simpleas1-2-3:excellentlighting,greatacoustics,andsuper-comfortableseatingadduptoahometheaterthatpacks‘emineverynight.

Abasementbathroomisarealconvenienceifyou’readdinglowerlevellivingspace,suchasabedroomorfamilyroom.Ifyouhavethespaceandtheresourcestoinstallathree-quarterbathorafullbath,you’llappreciatetheaddedfunctionality.Seepages202to211.

Guestbedroomsareoneofthemostcommonbasementremodelingprojects.Often,theyaredesignedasmultipurposeroomsso,forexample,youcanusetheroomasahomeofficewhenitisnotbeingemployedasabedroom.Seepages212to217.

Afamilyroomisagreatadditiontoabasementbecauseitkeepstherumpusandclutterandnoiseonitsownlevel.Agasfireplaceaddssomewarmthtotheroom.Seepages218to225.

Anintimatewinecellarfitsperfectlyinabasement,(thepresenceofthewordcellarinthenameisagoodclue).You’llwanttowallofftheareaandappointitwithrackingsystemsandinsomecasesclimatecontrol.Atastingtablemakestheroomsuitableforentertaining.

EvaluatingYourBasement

Measureclearancesfrompipesandductworktowallsandceilings.Anyobstructionsthatarenotcontainedwithinthestudorjoistcavitieswillneedtobemovedorisolatedinframedchasesorsoffits.

Begin your basement evaluation bymeasuring fromthebasementfloortothebottomofthefloorjoistsabove.Most building codes require habitable rooms to have afinishedceilingheightofsevenandahalffeet,measuredfromthefinishedfloor to the lowestpartof thefinishedceiling. However, obstructions, such as beams, soffits,andpipes,(spacedatleastfourfeetoncenter)canusuallyhang down six inches below that height. Hallways andbathroomstypicallyneedatleastseven-footceilings.Whileit’simpracticaltoaddheadroominabasement,

therearesomewaysofworkingaroundtherequirements.Ducts and pipes can often be moved, and beams andother obstructions can be incorporated into walls orhidden in closets or other uninhabitable spaces. Also,some codes permit lower ceiling heights in roomswithspecificpurposessuchas recreation rooms. Ifheadroomisaproblem,talktothelocalbuildingdepartmentbeforeyougiveuponyourdreamroom.A well-built basement is structurally sound and

providesplentyofsupport forfinishedspace,butbeforeyou cover up the walls, floor, and ceiling, check forpotentialproblems.Inspect themasonrycarefully.Largecracks may indicate a shifting around the foundation;severely bowed or out-of-plumb walls may bestructurallyunsound.Smallcracksusuallycausemoistureproblemsrather thanstructuralwoes,but theyshouldbe

sealedtopreventfurthercracking.Contactanengineerorfoundationcontractorforhelpwithfoundationproblems.If you have an older home, youmay find sagging floorjoists overhead or rotted wood posts or beams; anydefective wood framing will have to be reinforced orreplaced.Your basement’s mechanicals are another important

consideration. The locations of water heaters, pipes,wiring,circuitboxes,furnaces,andductworkcanhaveasignificant impact on the cost and difficulty of yourproject. Can you plan around components or will theyhavetobemoved?Isthereenoughheadroomtoinstallasuspendedceilingsomechanicalscanremainaccessible?Or,willyouhave to reroutepipesandducts to increaseheadroom?ElectriciansandHeatingVentilationandAirConditioning (HVAC) contractors can assess yoursystemsandsuggestmodifications.

HowtoEvaluateYourBasement

Traceplumbinglinesandnotelocationsofshutoffvalvesonsupplylines,whicharenaturalpointsforaddingnewpipesorredirectingoldpipes.Ifyouareconsideringabathroomorkitchenaddition,alsotracedrainlinesbacktothemaindrainstack,andtakemeasurementstodetermineifaddingnewdrainlinesisfeasible.

Evaluateheadroominyourbasement,payingparticularattentiontoductworkthatismountedbelowthebottomsofthefloorjoists.Inmanycases,youcanreroutetheductworksoitrunsinthejoistcavity.

Lookforasbestosinsulation,usuallyfoundonhotairsupplyductsfromthefurnace.Asbestosremovalisdangerousandcloselyregulated,butitinmanycasesyoucandoityourselfifyoufollowtherightproscriptions.Checkwithyourlocalbuildingdepartmentorwastemanagementauthorityformoreinformationonasbestosabatementinyourarea.

Identifysourcesofstandingwaterandvisibleleaks.Ifwatercomesintothebasementonaregularbasisthroughthefoundationwallsorfloor,you’lldefinitelyneedtocorrecttheproblembeforeyoubeginyourbasementproject.Seepages30to39.

Inspectfoundationwallcrackstoseeiftheyarestable.Drawmarksacrossthecrackandtakemeasurementsatthemarks.Comparemeasurementsforafewmonthstoseeifthecrackiswidening.Ifthecrackisstableyoucanrepairit(seepage30).Ifitismoving,contactastructuralengineerandresolvetheproblembeforeyoubeginyourremodelingproject.

Probesmallcracksinpouredconcretewallsandfloorswithacoldchiseltoevaluatetheconditionoftheconcrete.Iftheconcreteflakesoffeasily,keepprobinguntilyougettosolidconcrete.Ifthecrackandloosematerialextendmorethan1"orsointothewall,contactastructuralengineer.

Checkthemortarjointsonconcreteblockfoundationwalls.Somedegradationisnormal,butifgapswiderthan1/4"haveformed,youshouldhavethewallrepairedbeforeyoubeginbuilding.

Checkforbowinginbasementwalls.Waterpressureinthegroundoftencausesconcretewallstobowinwardovertime.Aslongastheamountofbowingislessthan1or2"andthebowingisnotactive,youcanusuallyaddresstheproblembyfurringoutfromthewallwithaframedwall.

TestingBasementConditions

Testconcretefloorsformoistureseepagebytapingapieceofplastictothefloorandleavingitinplaceforaday.Ifmoistureisenteringthebasementthroughthefloor,youwillseeitaccumulatingontheundersideoftheplastic.

Testconcretefoundationwallsformoistureandcondensation.Tapeasmallsquareofaluminumfoiltothewallandleaveitinplaceforaday.Iftheoutsidesurfaceofthefoilbecomeswet,youhaveacondensationproblem,whichisnormallycorrectedbyinstallingadehumidifer.Ifthesurfaceagainstthewallbecomeswet,youhaveaseepageproblem(seepages30to39).

Testhumidity.Arelativehumidityof30to40%isconsideredideal,butcanbehardtoachieveinabasement,wherethenaturallycoolertemperaturesmeanthatrelativehumidityishighertostartwith.Useahygrometertomeasurerelativehumidityinyourbasement.Ifitismorethan50%,youwillprobablyneedtoincludetheinstallationofahigh-capacitydehumidifierinyourremodelingplans.

Testforexcessiveradon.Radonisanodorless,colorlessradioactivegasthatcanenterupthroughbasementfloorsandaccumulate,posingahealthhazard.Somesmokedetectorswilldetectradon,butonlyifitisalreadyatdangerouslevels.Todetermineifyouhaveapotentialradonproblem,youcanpurchaseafairlyexpensivedigitalradondetector,oryoucanbuyaninexpensivehomedetectionkitavailableathardwarestores.Yousimplytakeanairsamplewiththekitcollectorandmailthesampletothelaboratory.Inmostcases,you’llreceiveareportwithrecommendationsinaweekortwo.

Anew,high-efficiencywaterheaterthat’ssizedforyourusageisagoodinvestment.

Evaluateyourwaterheatertodetermineifithasenoughcapacitytosupportabasementbathroom,especiallyifyourprojectwillincludeabathtuborshower.Ifyoualreadyrunoutofhotwateronoccasion(orifyourcurrentwaterheaterismorethan7to10yearsold),considerupgrading.

ElectricalCapacity

Checkyourmainelectrical servicepanel togauge ifthere is enough available capacity for you to add theadditionalelectricalcircuitsyourremodelingwillrequire.Start by looking for unused slots that are still coveredwithmetalknockoutplates.Ifthereareseveralavailable,that’sagoodsignthatyoumaybeabletoexpand.Buttoknow for sure, you’ll need to calculate the current loadyour home is using and compare it to the maximumcapacity.Youcanfind the informationformakingthesecalculations in any wiring book or on the Internet. Or,haveanelectricianmaketheassessmentforyou.Herearegeneralguidelinesfornewcircuits:

Small bathroom:One 15-amp light circuit and onededicated 20-amp small appliance circuit (GFCIprotected).

Bathroom suite: One 15-amp light circuit; one 20-ampsmall appliancecircuit (GFCIprotected);dedicated30-or 40-amp, 240-volt circuit for jetted bath or sauna;dedicated20-amp,240-voltcircuitforelectricbaseboardheaters(upto16ft.).

Bedroom: One 15-amp light circuit; One 15-or 20-ampreceptaclecircuit.

Home office/home theater: One 15-amp lightcircuit; One 20-amp receptacle circuit with surgeprotection;structuredwiringorhomenetworkingcablingasrequired.

Measurethedistancefromareaswhereyouareconsideringinstallingplumbingdrainstothemaindrainstack.Thenewbranchdrainlineneedstoslopedowntothemainstackataminimumrateof1/4"perft.Theslopeiscreatedbyrunningthedrainlinethroughtheexistingfloorandtyingintothemainstackbelowfloorlevel(seepages202to206)orbyelevatingthefixture.

BasementConstruction

Modern basements vary somewhat in how they areconstructed, but most have concrete or concrete blockfoundationwallsthatarepouredonfootingsandsupportthe walls above them. The joists for the first floor aresupportedontheendsbysillsthatarefastenedtothetopsofthefoundationwalls,whichtheysharewithrimjoists.Thejoistsareusuallysupported in thecenterbyabeamthatisinturnsupportedbypostsandbeamsorbyaload-bearing wall that runs straight through the house. Thebearingwall rests on an area of the floor that has beenreinforcedwithafooting.Ifthehouseisbuiltonslopingterrain,itiscommonto

haveawalkoutdoorsothebasementareamaybeenteredatgradelevelonthelowendoftheslope.Inadditiontomaking access easier, thewalkout door (often a slidingpatio door) allows plenty of natural light into thebasement.In some older homes, the basement foundation walls

donotbearweight.Youcanusuallyidentifythesebythefact that the walls extend only a short distance belowgrade,andareoftensetback froma ledgeofbuttressedearth.Inthesebasements,thebulkofthebearingworkisdonebypostsandbeams.

RemodelingCodes&Practices

Converting a basement into livable space involvesconquering a set of challenges that are unique tosubterranean construction. This is why basementremodeling and finishing is regulated with codes andpractices that differ from other building. Many of thestandards relate to the constant threat posed by waterrunoff and moisture that percolates in through theadjoining soil. Some deal with air quality in a coolenvironmentwithhighrelativehumiditythatfavorsmoldgrowth.Egress(theabilitytogetinandouteasily)isveryimportant in basements—you can’t simply jump out awindow if the main entryway is blocked. Even gravitycan work against you in a basement, where drainingwatermayrequireassistancetobeejectedefficiently.Building codes distinguish between habitable space

and nonliving space. All habitable rooms must have afootprintofat leastseventysquarefeet (sf)withat leastonewall that’s seven feet or longer. The exception is akitchen, which can be as small as fifty square feet insomeinstances.However,itshouldbenotedthatasmallbedroom isusually considered tobe in theonehundredsquarefoottoonehundredfiftysquarefootrange,soyoushould consider a seventy square foot bedroom onlyunder extremely tight conditions. Minimum ceilingheightissevenandahalffeet,withsomeexceptions(see

illustration,thispage).Beamsorductworkmaynotdropdownmorethansixinchesfromtheceiling.

Basementheadroomisoftenlimitedbybeams,ducts,pipes,andotherelements.Typicalminimumsforceilingheightareshownhere:7-1/2ft.forhabitablerooms;7ft.forbathroomsandhallways;7ft.forobstructionsspacednolessthan4ft.apart.

AdditionalRequirementsforBuildinginBasements

Permanently installedappliances, suchas furnacesandwaterheatersmustbefullyaccessibleforinspection,service, repair, and replacement. A dedicated furnaceroom must have a door at least 20" wide and largeenough for passage of the furnace. There should be aminimum 30"-wide area of clear space formaintenanceaccess. Check with your local building department forcombustionairsupplyrequirements.

Clothesdryersmustexhausttotheexterior.Bathrooms without natural ventilation must have

artificialventilationofatleast50cuft.perminutethatisventedtotheexterior.Ventilationinhalfbaths(notuborshower)canexhaustintotheatticinsomeareas.

Electrical service panels may not be located inbathroomsorinclosets.

GFCI receptacles or circuits are required inbathrooms,unfinishedspaces,andoncountertopswithin6ft.ofafaucet.

Receptaclesarerequiredevery6ft.inallhabitablerooms.Theyarealsorequiredinanywallareawiderthan2ft.,laundryareas,andinanyhallwaylongerthan10ft.

Habitable rooms, storage room, utility room,hallway, or staircase must have at least one switch-operatedlightfixture.Habitableroomsmustalsohavean

amountofwindowglassareaequaltoatleast8%oftheareaofthefloor.Atleasthalfofthewindowareamustbeopenable for unobstructed ventilation. Artificial lightsand mechanical ventilation may be substituted undersomeconditions.

Unfinished areas must have windows with anunobstructed ventilation area equal to 1% of the floorarea.

EgressWindowConsiderations

If your home has an unfinished or partially finishedbasement, it’s an enticing and sensible place to expandyour practical living space. Another bedroom or two, agame room, or maybe a spacious home office are allpossibilities.However,unlessyourbasementhasawalk-out doorway, you’ll need to add an egress window tomake your new living spacemeetmost building codes.That’s because the InternationalResidentialCode (IRC)requires twoformsofescapeforevery livingspace—anexitdoorandawindowlargeenoughforyoutoclimboutoforforanemergencyrespondertoenter.Code mandates that a below-ground egress window

willhaveaminimumopeningareaofatleast5.7squarefeet.Therearestipulationsabouthowthisopenareacanbeproportioned:Thewindowmustbeat least20incheswide and 24 inches high when open. Additionally, theinstalledwindow’ssillheightmustbewithin44inchesofthe basement floor to permit easy escape. Typicalbasement windows do not meet these requirements. Alargeegresswindowrequiresanoversizedwindowwell.Thewellmustbeat least36 incheswideandproject36inchesormorefromthefoundation.Ifthewindowwellisdeeper than 44 inches, it must have a fixed ladder forescape.What does this all mean for the ambitious do-it-

yourselfer?Thegoodnewsisthatifyou’vegotthenerveto cut an oversized opening in your home’s foundation,and you don’tmind spending some quality timewith ashovel, installing a basement egress window is amanageable project. Here’s a case where carefulplanning,abuildingpermit,andsomehelpcansaveyouconsiderable money over hiring a contractor to do thework.Toseeacompletestep-by-stepegresswindowandwellinstallation,seepages168to173.Contactyourlocalbuilding department to learnmore about specific egressrequirementsthatapplytoyourarea.

Inordertosatisfybuildingcodesforegress,abasementwindowmusthaveaminimumopeningof5.7sq.ft.throughonesash,withatleast20"ofclearwidthand24"ofclearheight.Casement,double-hung,andslidingwindowstylescanbeused,aslongastheirdimensionsforwidthandheightmeettheseminimumrequirements.

Egresswindowwellsmustbeatleast36"wideandproject36"fromthefoundation.Thosedeeperthan44"musthaveameansofescape,suchasatiereddesignthatformsstepsoranattachedladder.Drainageatthebottomofthewellshouldextenddowntothefoundationfootingdrain,withpeagravelusedasthedrainagematerial.

RecommendedClearances

Abathroomshouldbeplannedwithenoughapproachspaceandclearanceroomtoallowawheelchairorwalkeruser to enter and turn around easily. The guidelines forapproachspacesandclearancesshownhereincludesomeADA guidelines and recommendations from universaldesignspecialists.

Electricalwiresmustbeprotectedinsidewalls,ceilings,conduit,orraceway.Ifyourbasementisnotclassifiedashabitablespace,youcanattachsheathedelectricalcabletothesidesofceilingjoists,butonceyou’veconvertedittolivingspace,allofthewiringneedstobesafelytuckedaway.

Basementstairsmustbewideenoughandwithintheallowableslopeforriseandrun.Theyalsomusthaveagrippablehandrailandaclearlandingareaofatleast36×36"atboththetopandbottom.Theyshouldbeatleast36"widewithaminimumof6ft.,8"ofheadroom.Ifyourhousewasbuiltpriortothe1960s,thereisagoodchancethebasementstairsdon’tconformtothesestandards(theymaynotevencomeclose).Becauseyouwillbecreatinglivablespace,mostmunicipalitieswillrequirethatyouupgradeorreplaceyourstairstomeettheaboverequirements.Evenifyourlocalcodesdon’tdemandit,however,youshouldmakeupgradingyourstairsphaseoneofyourprojectanyway.Safetyandconveniencearereasonenough.

PlanningYourProject

After you’ve evaluated your basement and havedetermined that the space is usable, the next step is toplan the construction project. Having a completeconstructionplanenablesyoutoviewtheentireprojectata glance. It helps you identify potential problems,provides a senseof the time involved, and establishes alogical order of steps.Without a construction plan, it’seasier tomakecostlyerrors, likeclosingupawallwithwallboardbeforetherough-insareinspected.The general steps shown here follow a typical

construction sequence. Your plan likely will differ atseveral points, but thinking through each of these stepswillhelpyoucreateacompleteschedule.

1. Contact the building department and discussyourprojectwithabuildingofficial.Findoutwhatcodesapply in your area and how to obtain the applicablepermits.Explain howmuch of thework you plan to doyourself.Insomestates,plumbing,electrical,andHVACwork must be done by licensed professionals. Alsodetermine what types of drawings you’ll need to getpermitsandwhatcostswillbe.

2. Design the space. Take measurements, makesketches,andtestdifferentlayouts—findoutwhatworks

and what doesn’t. Consider all the necessary elements,suchasheadroom, lighting,mechanicals,andmakesureeverythingadherestolocalbuildingcodes.

3. Draw floor plans. Most basement remodels canfollowasimplesetofplans thatyoucandrawyourself.Plans should include dimensions of rooms, doors, andwindows; all plumbing fixtures and HVAC equipment;electricalfixtures,receptacles,andswitches;andclosets,counters,andotherbuilt-infeatures.

4.Hirecontractors.Ifyou’regettinghelpwithyourproject, it’sbest to findandhire thecontractorsearly inthe process. You may need certain contractors to pulltheir own permits. To avoid problems, make sure allcontractorsknowexactlywhatworktheyarebeinghiredtodoandwhatworkyouwillbedoingyourself.Alwayscheck contractor’s references and make sure they’relicensedandinsured.

5.Get thepermits.Takeyourdrawings, notes, andany requireddocuments to thebuildingdepartment, andobtain thepermits for your project.Findoutwhatworkneeds to be inspected andwhen to call for inspections.Thisisacriticalstep,asthepermitprocessisrequiredbylaw.

6.Makemajorstructuralandmechanicalchanges.Prepare the space for finishing by completing structuralwork and building new stairs, if necessary. Movemechanical elements and re-route major service lines.Completerough-insthatmusthappenbeforetheframing,such as adding ducts, installing under-floor drains, andreplacingoldplumbing.

7. Frame the rooms. Build the floors, walls, andceilingsthatestablishyournewrooms.Inmostcases,thefloor will come first; however, you should rough-inservice lines and insulate for soundproofing beforeinstalling the subfloor. Next come the walls. Coverfoundation walls, and build partition walls and kneewalls.Build theroughopeningsforwindowsanddoors.Enlarge existingbasementwindowopeningsor cut newonesforegresswindows.Installthewindows.

8.Completetherough-ins.RunDWV(drain,waste,and vent) and water and gas supply pipes. Installelectricalboxes,andrunthewiring.CompletetheHVACrough-ins.Buildsoffitstoenclosenewservicelines.

9.Insulate.Insulatethewalls,ceilings,andpipesforweatherizing, soundproofing, and fireblocking. Addvaporbarriersifrequiredbylocalcode.

10.Finishthewallsandceilings.Ifyou’reinstallingwallboard,dotheceilingsfirst, thenthewalls.Tapeandfinishthewallboard.Installotherfinishtreatments.

11. Add the finishing touches. Complete finishcarpentry, such as installing doors, moldings and otherwoodwork, cabinets, and built-in shelving, and lay thefloorcoverings.

12.Makethefinalconnections.Installtheplumbingfixtures and complete the drain and supply hookups.Make electrical connections, and install all fixtures,devices, and appliances. Get the final inspection andapproval.

SampleBasementLayout:BeforeandAfter

Before:Thisbasementhadthreeutilitywindowsalongtheendwallsandstructuralcolumnsrunningparalleltothelongsidewall.Afurnaceandwaterheaterbrokeupthecentralspace,andtherewasasumppitinonecorner.Thegoalforthisspacewastocreatealargefamilyroom,homeoffice,bathroom,poolroom,andstoragearea.

After:Afewwallsatoneendofthebasementdefineseveralofthenewrooms.Toaddlighttothehomeoffice,theexistingwindowopeningwasexpanded.Anegresswindowwasinstalled,allowingtheroomtobeusedasabedroomaswell.Alargerwindowandwellwereinstalledtoprovidelightandabetterviewfromthefamilyroom.Onecolumnwashiddenwithintheofficewall;theremainingthreewerewrappedwithwoodtrim.Themechanicalroomcontainsthefurnaceandwaterheater,withplentyofspaceforservicingtheunits.Nexttotheofficeisafullbathroom,designedwithasquarelayoutthatleavesacomfortableamountofspacebetweenthefixtures.Thepoolroomoccupiesawell-definedspace,wheregameswon’tdisruptactivityinthefamilyroom.Awetbarcaneasilybeaccessedfromboththepoolroomandfamilyroom.Thestairwayneededonlyanewhandrailtobecomecode-compliant.Atthebottomofthestairs,abuilt-incabinetprovidesstorageandaddsadecorativetouchtothebasemententrance.

ImprovingBasementEnvironments

Beforeyougetdowntotheactualbuildingofrooms,you need to make any environmental upgrades that arenecessary for the comfort, safety, and livability of theroom. Now is the time to deal with water or moistureproblems, heating and cooling requirements, ventilationneeds, and upgrades to thewiring or plumbing systemsthat are needed to support additional finished livingspace. Ultimately, the success of your rec room orlaundry roomor guest bedroomdependsvitally onhowconscientiously you manage the environmental changesthatareuniquetoabasement.Asyouprepare thebasement for construction,keepa

few fundamental guidelines in mind. Each of these isaddressedingreaterdetailinthischapter.

• Do not insulate exterior basement walls on theinteriorside.

•Donotinstallvaporbarriersontheinteriorsideofbasementwalls(unlessrequiredbylocalcodes).

•Leaveairspacebetweenfurredbasementwallsandexteriorwalls.

• Make sure all moisture infiltration problems areaddressedby eliminating the sourceor, if that isnotpossible,by installinga sumppumporothermechanicalmeansforremovingwater.

Inthischapter:

ControllingMoistureControllingPestsInsulatingBasementsImprovingHeating&CoolingUpgradingVentilationAddingElectricalCircuits

ControllingMoisture

Basementmoisturecandestroyyoureffortstocreatefunctionallivingspace.Overtime,evensmallamountsofmoisture can rot framing, turn wallboard to mush, andpromote the growth of mold and mildew. Beforeproceeding with your basement project, you must dealwithanymoistureissues.Thegoodnewsisthatmoistureproblemscanberesolved,oftenveryeasily.Basementmoistureappearsintwoforms:condensation

and seepage. Condensation comes from airborne watervapor that turns towaterwhen itcontactscoldsurfaces.Vapor sources include humid outdoor air, poorlyventilated appliances, damp walls, and water releasedfromconcrete.Seepageiswaterthatentersthebasementby infiltrating cracks in the foundation or by leechingthroughmasonry,whichisnaturallyporous.Oftencausedbyineffectiveexteriordrainage,seepagecomesfromrainor groundwater that collects around the foundation orfromarisingwatertable.If you have a wet basement, you’ll see evidence of

moisture problems. Typical signs include peeling paint,whiteresidueonmasonry(calledefflorescence),mildewstains, sweatywindowsandpipes, rustedappliance feet,rottedwoodnearthefloor,buckledfloortile,andstrongmildewodor.To reduce condensation, run a high-capacity

dehumidifier in the basement. Insulate cold-water pipestopreventcondensatedrippage,andmakesureyourdryerand other appliances have vents running to the outside.Extending central air conditioning service to thebasement can help reduce vapor during warm, humidmonths.Crawlspacescanalsopromotecondensation,aswarm,

moist air enters through vents andmeets cooler interiorair.Crawlspaceventilationisasourceofongoingdebate,and there’s no universal method that applies to allclimates.It’sbesttoaskthelocalbuildingdepartmentforadviceonthismatter.Solutions for preventing seepage range from simple

do-it-yourself projects to expensive, professional jobsrequiring excavation and foundation work. Since it’softendifficulttodeterminethesourceofseepingwater,itmakessensetotrysomecommoncuresbeforecallinginprofessional help. If the simple measures outlined heredon’tcorrectyourmoistureproblems,youmustconsidermore extensive action. Serious water problems aretypically handled by installing footing drains or sumppump systems. Footing drains are installed around thefoundation’s perimeter, near the footing, and they drainout to a distant area of the yard.These usuallywork inconjunctionwithwaterproofcoatingsontheexteriorsideof the foundation walls. Sump systems use an interiorunderslabdrainpipetocollectwaterinapit,andwateris

ejectedoutsidebyanelectricsumppump.

Repairingcracksrestorestheintegrityofconcretefoundationwallsthatleak,butitisoftenonlyatemporaryfix.Selectinganappropriaterepairproductanddoingcarefulpreparationwillmaketherepairmorelonglasting.Ahydraulicconcreterepairproductliketheoneseenhereisperfectforbasementwallrepairbecauseitactuallyhardensfromcontactwithwater.

Installinganewdrainagesystemisexpensiveandmustbe done properly. Adding a sump system involvesbreaking up the concrete floor along the basement’sperimeter, digging a trench, and laying a perforateddrainpipe in a bed of gravel. After the sump pit isinstalled, the floor is patched with new concrete.Installing a footing drain is far more complicated. Thisinvolvesdiggingoutthefoundation,installinggravelanddrainpipe, and waterproofing the foundation walls. Afootingdrainisconsideredalast-resortmeasure.

Improveyourguttersystemandfoundationgradetopreventrainwaterandsnowmeltfromfloodingyourbasement.Keepgutterscleanandstraight.Makesurethere’sadownspoutforevery50ft.ofroofeave,andextenddownspoutsatleast8ft.fromthefoundation.Buildupthegradearoundthefoundationsothatitcarrieswaterawayfromthehouse.

Commoncausesofbasementmoistureincludeimpropergradingaroundthefoundation,inadequateorfaultyguttersystems,condensation,cracksinfoundationwalls,leakyjointsbetweenstructuralelements,andpoorlydesignedwindowwells.Moreextensiveproblemsincludelargecracksinthefoundation,damagedormissingdraintiles,ahighwatertable,orthepresenceofundergroundstreams.Often,acombinationoffactorsisatfault.

HowtoSealCracksinaFoundationWall

Torepairastablecrack,chiselcutakeyholecutthat’swideratthebasethenatthesurface,andnomorethan1/2"deep.Cleanoutthecrackwithawirebrush.

Tohelpsealagainstmoisture,fillthecrackwithexpandinginsulatingfoam,workingfrombottomtotop.

Mixhydrauliccementaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions,thentrowelitintothecrack,workingfromthebottomtotop.Applycementinlayersnomorethan1/4"thick,untilthepatchisslightlyhigherthanthesurroundingarea.Feathercementwiththetroweluntilit’sevenwiththesurface.Allowtodrythoroughly.

HowtoSkim-CoataFoundationWall

Resurfaceheavilycrackedmasonrywallswithawater-resistantmasonrycoatingsuchassurfacebondingcement.Cleananddampenthewallsaccordingtothecoatingmanufacturer’sinstructions,thenfilllargecracksandholeswiththecoating.Finally,plastera1/4"layerofthecoatingonthewallsusingasquare-endtrowel.Speciallyformulatedheavy-dutymasonrycoatingsareavailableforverydampconditions.

Scratchthesurfacewithapaintbrushcleanerorahomemadescratchingtoolafterthecoatinghassetupforseveralhours.After24hours,applyasecond,smoothcoat.Mistthewalltwiceadayforthreedaysasthecoatingcures.

PreventingMoistureinBasements

Cleanyourguttersandpatchanyholes.Makesuretheguttersslopetowardthedownspoutsatabout1/16"perft.Adddownspoutextensionsandsplashblockstokeeproofrunoffatleast8ft.awayfromthefoundation.

Coverwindowwellsthatwillotherwiseallowwaterintoabasement.Coveringthemwithremovableplasticistheeasiestwaytokeepthemdry.Coversonegresswindowwellsmustbeeasilyremovedfrominside(seepage168).Ifyouprefertoleavewellsuncovered,addagravellayerandadraintothebottomofthewell.Cleanthewellregularlytoremovemoisture-heavydebris.

WaterproofPaint

Masonrypaintsandsealers, especially those thataredescribed as waterproof, are rather controversialproducts.Somemanufacturersclaimthatapplyingacoatof theirwaterproofpaintwillcreatea seal thatcanholdback moisture, even under light hydrostatic pressure.Otherssuggestonlythattheirproduct,whenappliedtoabasement wall, will create a skin that inhibits waterpenetrationfromtheinteriorside.Masonrypaintsdoholdupbetteronconcretesurfaces

thanothertypes,largelybecausetheyarehigherinalkaliand therefore less reactivewith cement-basedmaterials.But they also can trap moisture in the concrete, whichwillcausethepainttofailprematurelyandcancausetheconcretetodegrade,especiallyifthewaterfreezes.Readthe product label carefully before applying waterproofpainttoyourbasementwalls,andmakesuretofollowthepreparationprotocolscarefully.Ifyouhaveafoundationwall with an active water-seepage problem, address theproblem with the other methods shown in this section,includinggradingandgutters.Acoatofwaterproofpaintisnotgoingtomakeyourbasementdrier.

DrainageSolution:HowtoRe-grade

Establishthedrainageslope.Theyardaroundyourhouseshouldslantawayfromthehouseataminimumslopeof3/4"perft.foratleast10ft.Tillthesoiloraddnewsoilaroundthehouseperimeter.Driveawoodstakenexttothehouseandanother10ft.out.Tiealevelmason’sstringbetweenthestakes,andthenmovethestringdownatleast2-1/2"attheendawayfromthehouse,establishingyourminimumslope.

Redistributethesoilwithasteelgardenrakesothegradefollowstheslopeline.Addtopsoilatthehighendifneeded.Donotexcavateneartheendoftheslopetoaccommodatethegrade.Thegoalistobuilduptheyardtocreaterunoff.

Useagradingraketosmoothoutthesoilsoitslopesatanevenrate.Driveadditionalstakesandtieoffslopelinesasnecessary.

Tampthesoilwithahandtamperorplatecompactor.Fillinanydipsthatoccurwithfreshdirt.Laysodorplantgrassorgroundcoverimmediately.

DryWellsforDrainage

Adrywellisinstalledtohelpgiverunoffwateranescaperoutesoitdoesn’tcollectaroundthehousefoundation.Seenextpage.

DrainageSolution:HowtoInstallaDryWell

Adrywell is a simpleway to channel excesswateroutoflow-lyingorwater-ladenareas,suchasthegroundbeneath a gutter downspout. A dry well system (seeprevious page) typically consists of a buried drain tilerunningfromacatchbasinpositionedattheproblemspottoacollectioncontainersomedistanceaway.A dry well system is easy to install and surprisingly

inexpensive. In the project shown here, a perforatedplasticdraintilecarrieswaterfromacatchbasintoadrywell fashioned from a plastic trash can, that has beenpunctured,thenfilledwithstonerubble.Therunoffwaterpercolates into the soil as it makes its way along thedrainpipeandthroughthedrywell.The how-to steps of this project include digging the

trenchwithashovel.Ifthecatchbasinisalongdistancefromtheproblemarea,youmaywanttorentatrenchertodig the trench quickly. Call local utility companies tomarkthelocationofundergroundmechanicalsbeforeyoustarttodig.

Digatrench(10"wide,14"deep)fromtheareawherethewatercollectstothecatchbasinlocation,slopingthetrench2"per8ft.Linethetrenchwithlandscapefabricandthenadda1"layerofgravelontopofthefabric.

Setalengthofperforateddraintileonthegravelrunningthefulllengthofthetrench.Ifthetrenchstartsatadownspout,positionagratedcatchbasindirectlybeneaththedownspoutandattachtheendofthedraintiletotheoutletport.

Installthedrywellbydiggingaholethat’sbigenoughtoholdaplastictrashcan.Drill1"holesthroughthesidesandbottomofthecanevery4to6".Alsocutanaccessholeatthetopofthecanforthedraintile.Setthecanintheholeandinsertthefreeendofthetile.Backfilldirtoverthetileandtrenchandplantgrassorcoverwithsod.

DrainageSolution:HowtoBuildaDryStreambed

A dry streambed or watercourse (also known as anarroyo) can be built to direct water runoff away fromyourhousefoundationandtowardareaswherethewatercan percolate into the ground and irrigate plants.Whendesigning your dry streambed, keep it natural andpractical.Use local stone that’s arranged as itwouldbefound in a natural stream. Take a field trip to an areacontainingnatural streamsandmakesomeobservations.Notehowquicklythewaterdepthdropsattheoutsideofbends,whereonlylargerstonescanwithstandthecurrent.By the same token, note how gradually the water leveldrops at the inside of broad bends, where watermovementisslow.Placesmallerriver-rockgravelhereasthoughithadaccumulatedinanaturalstream.Large heavy stones with flat tops may serve as

steppingstones,creatingpathstocrossorevenfollowdrystreambeds.The most important design principle for dry

streambedsistoavoidregularity.Stonesareneverspacedevenly in nature nor should they be in your streambed.Also, ifyoudigabedwithconsistentwidth itwill looklikeacanaloradrainageditch,notastream,sovarythewidth and the depth. Consider other yard elements andfurnishings.Forexample,adrystreambedisessentiallyariver of rock, so it presents a nice opportunity to add a

landscapebridgeortwotoyouryard.Contact your local building department before

deliberatelyroutingwatertowardastormsewer;thismaybeillegal.Beforedigging,callyourlocalutilitieshotlinetohaveburiedpipesandwiresinorneartheconstructionareaflagged.

Adrystreambedcanbeconstructedtodirectwaterrunoffawayfromyourbasementwallsandtoaddanattractivelandscapefeaturetoyouryard.

Excavatethestreambedtoabout12"deep,workingwithinanonregularoutline.Thestreambedshouldoriginateatadownspoutfromyourguttersystem.Followthenaturalcourseofrainwaterrunoffwherepossible.Endatanaturalsink,suchasaraingarden.Bendsareoftenwiderinnaturalstreams,somakeyourstreamwideratbends.Rake,smooth,andcompactthesoilwithintheprojectarea.

Laystripsoflandscapefabricovertheexcavationarea,overlappingfabricbyatleast12"atseams.Laythefabrictowithin2to3ft.ofthehouse,andthenlayastripof6-milblackplasticnexttothehousetodirectwaterawayandintothestreambed.Weighdowntheedgesofthefabricwithsomeofyourlargerrocks.

Placerocksinthestreambed,beginningwithlargerbouldersalongthestreambedbanks.Extraexcavationmaybeneededtoproperlysetextralargeboulders.Fillaroundlargebouldersandline“rapids”withsmallerboulders.Youmayalsoplacesteppingstonestomakeapathwayorbridgeinanareawhereyou’relikelytobewalking.Inmostcasesthisfeatureismostlyornamental.

Fillinspacesandcreategravelbottomswithriverrockinthe3/4to2"sizerange.Makesuretheriverrockyou’reusingisnativetoyourarea,andavoiddumpingitallintoaflatfield.Retainsomeniceshapesandcontours.Trimoffanyexposedlandscapefabricandplantnativegrassesandotherperennialsalongthebanks(inset).

DrainageSolution:HowtoMakeaFoundationDrainageGarden

If your basement is perpetually wet, a bit oflandscapingmaysolveyourwaterproblem.Afoundationdrainage garden has dual functions of enhancing yourlandscape and keeping your basement dry. Check theslope of the ground near your foundationwalls using alevel that’s set on top of a long straight 2 × 4. Aminimum slope of 1/2" per foot is necessary for waterrunoff.Ifyourslopedoesnotmeetthisminimum,you’llneed to regradeandaddsoiluntil the slope isachieved.Whentheregradingisdoneandsufficientslopehasbeenestablished, you can install a drainage garden over awaterproof membrane. Consisting of a waterproofunderlayment covered with soil or rocks (or somecombinationofthetwo),drainagegardenshavetheaddedbonus of being virtually maintenance free. It isrecommended, however, that you add plant cover forvisualappealandtopreventthesoilfromeroding.Whenselectingamaterialfortop-dressingthedrainage

garden, look for colors and textures that are native toyourareaandprobablyalreadyexistinyouryard.Mulch,bark,andotherorganicmaterialsdonotworkasdressingfor foundation gardens. They will simply wash away.Similarly,verysmallaggregateandgravelhaveawayofdisappearing. Crushed aggregate, river rock, or field

stone in the two-inch average diameter range is anexcellentchoice.

Apathwaythatsteerswaterrunoffawayfromthehouse,keepingitoutofthebasement,iscreatedbycrushedrockgroundcoverlaidoveraplasticwaterbarrier.

Usingan8-ft.-long2×4withalevelontop,markwherethegradeneedstofallatthehouseinordertoproduceaminimum4"dropfromthehousetoapoint8ft.away.Repeattheprocedureevery10ft.alongthefoundationwall.Connectthegradepointswithsnappedchalklines.Clearallplantings,landscaperock,landscapefabric,andotherdebrisfromtheconstructionsite.

Digoutatrenchalongtheloweredgeofthegardenarea,tossingthesoilbacktowardthehighendofthegardentobegintheregradingwork.Relocateandaddsoilasnecessaryuntiltheminimumslopeisachieved.Tampthesoilwithahandtamperorrollwithalawnroller.

Installlandscapeedging(insetphoto),andthenlaytwolayersof6-milblackplasticovertheexcavatedarea,runningtheplasticupthewallslightly.Sheetplasticcomesinwideenoughrollsthatyoushouldbeabletoinstallseamlesslayers.

Planthardyperennialsorevergreensandthenpoura2to4"layerofcrushedrockorgravelinthefoundationgarden.Whenplanting,cutanXintothesheetinglayersandbuildupthesoilinfrontofthehole(underneaththeplastic)tocreateasmalldamthatwillhelpretainwaterfortheplant.Smoothouttherockwithagardenrakeorientedupsidedownsothetinesdon’tpuncturetheplasticsheeting.

DrainageSolution:HowtoInstallaSumpPump

If water continues to accumulate in your basementdespite all your efforts at regrading and sealing yourbasement walls, installing a sump pump may be youronly option for resolving the problem. Permanentlylocatedinapitthatyoudigbeneathyourbasementfloor,thesumppumpautomaticallykicks inwheneverenoughwater accumulates in the pit to trigger the pump float.Thewateristhenpumpedoutofthebasementthroughapipethatrunsthroughtherimjoistofthehouse.Because you’ll be diggingwell beneath the basement

floor,makecertainthereisnosewerpipeorwatersupplypipeinthediggingarea.Contactaplumberifyoudonotknowforsurethattheareaisclear.The purpose of a sump pump is to collect and eject

water that accumulates beneath your basement floor(usuallyduetoahighwatertable)beforeitcanbedrawnorforcedupintothebasement.Themosteffectivesumpinstallations have drain tile running around the entireperimeterofthehouseandchannelingwatertothepumppit.Thissystemcanbecreatedasaretrofitjob,butitisamajorundertakingbestlefttoapro.

Asubmersiblesumppumpisinstalledinapitbeneathabasementfloortopumpwateroutbeforeitseepsupintothebasement.

HowtoInstallaSumpPump

Digthesumppit.Startbyfindingthelowestpointofthefloor(orthespotwherewatertypicallyaccumulates)thatisatleast8"fromafoundationwall.Outlineanareathat’sabout6"widerthanthepitlinerallaround.Removetheconcreteinthisarea.Basementfloorsaretypically3to4"thick,sorentinganelectricjackhammerisagoodidea.

Installthepitlinerafterdiggingaholeforitinthegranularmaterialunderthefloor.Theholeshouldbeafewincheswiderthantheliner.Removetheexcavatedmaterialrightaway.Addgraveltothebottomoftheholeasneededtobringthelinerlevelwiththetopofitsrimatfloorlevel.

Packthelinerinplacebypouring1/2"gravelaroundit.Adda1"baseofgravelandthenmixconcretetopatchthefloor.Troweltheconcretearoundtherimwithafloatsothepatchislevelandsmooth.

Preparethesumppumpforinstallation.ThreadaPVCadapterfittingontothepumpoutlet,andthensolventglueaPVCstandpipetotheadapter.Thestandpipeshouldbelongenoughtoextendabout1ft.pastthelinerrimwhenthepumpissetonthebottomoftheliner.

Attachacheckvalvetothetopofthestandpipetopreventthebackflowofwaterintothepumppit.Solventweldanotherrisertofitintothetopofthecheckvalveandrunupwardtoapointlevelwiththerimjoist,wherethedischargetubewillexitthebasement.

Drillaholeintherimjoistforthedischargetubeandfinishroutingthedrainpipeoutthroughtherimjoist.Caulkaroundthetubeonboththeinteriorandexteriorsides.Ontheexterior,attachanelbowfittingtothedischargetubeandrundrainpipedownfromtheelbow.Placeasplashblockbeneaththedrainpipetodirectwaterawayfromthehouse.PlugthepumpintoaGFCI-protectedreceptacle.

ControllingPests

Atypicalbasementofferseverythingapestcouldaskfor: it’scoolanddampwithplentyofhidingplacesandample food sources. Insects will happily invade yourbasement in just about any climate, typically enteringthroughcracksinthefoundationwallaswellasthroughfloordrains.Insomeareas,snakesaredrawntothecoolclimate in basements. Other invaders include vermin(miceand rats) and,perhaps themostdestructiveof all,termites.Themost common entry points for vermin are small

holes along the foundation and sometimes next towindows and doors. These should all be filled withsiliconeacryliccaulk.Holesmuchwiderthanonequarterinchshouldbestuffedwithcaulkbackerbeforecaulking.Also fill any gaps where phone, gas, cable, electric,water, and other services enter the house through thebasement. Once you are done filling the obvious gaps,lookforevidenceofinfestationlikeanimaldroppingsornestingmaterials. Remove these and check the area forany entry points that you might have missed. If therodents persist, you can fight back with spring-loadedtrapsorHavahart-typetrapsthatcapturetheanimalsoitcanbereleasedoutside.There are many hardware store products designed to

helpyougetridofpestsinsideyourhouse.Forinsectsin

the basement, pesticide foggers are one option. Theseshouldn’tbeusedaroundfoodprepareasorwhenanyoneis in the house. The usual approach is to activate thefogger and then leave the house for a few hours. Nomatterwhichproductyoubuy,followtheuseinstructionscarefully.Commonroachandant trapsdocapturealotofpests

but will not solve the problem unless the source fromoutsideiseliminated.Thesameis trueofmousetraps.Ifyou’veclosedall theentrypoints thatyoucanfind,andyou’ve trapped all the pests that were inside when youpluggedtheholesandyoustillhavepests,thenyouneedfurtherhelp.Callareputableexterminator.Ifyouhaveatermiteproblem,donotfoolaroundwith

homeremedies.Contactapestcontrolprofessional,whowill most likely get you set up with a monitored trapsystem. Because termites can destroy your house (andnew,more destructive breeds are proliferating quickly),don’ttakeanychances.

Controltermitesbyhavingaprofessionallymonitoredbaitsysteminstalled.Ifyouliveinanareawheretermitesareaproblem,relyingonhomeremediesisariskygamble.

Useanannualperimeterspraytocontrolinsectssuchassilverfishandants.Granularproductsalsomaybesprinkledaroundthefoundationwallontheexteriorside.

PestproofingBasements

Sealthemudsillbyapplyingcaulkorexpandablefoambetweenthemudsillandthetopofthefoundationwallontheinteriorside(leftphoto).Thisisaprimeentrypointforcrawlinginsects.Alsocheckthesillareaontheexteriorside.Often,thisisconcealedbysiding,butifyouseeanygapsfillthemwithcaulkaswell(rightphoto).

Caulkarounddryerventstokeeppests(andwater)outofthebasement.Formaximumprotection,replaceyourflap-styleventoutlets(inset)withaprotectedventhoodthatkeepsinsectsandrodentsout(thewarm,moistairinadryerventisveryattractivetopests).

Blockbasementfloordrainsfrombecomingentrypointsbysettingatennisballinthedrainopening.Thelightweightballwillcovertheopeningbutfloatupenoughtoallowwatertodrain.

Keepaneyeoutforsignsofpestinfestation.Hills,tunnels,anddroppingsareallsuresignsthatyou’vegotapestproblem.

InsulatingBasements

Insulating basements is a tricky topic. In colderclimates, insulation is necessary for the successfulcreationof a livable basement room.But thepractice isfraught with pitfalls that can cause a host of problems.Butherearetwopiecesofadvicethatarecertain:

• The exteriorwall is a far better location for newinsulationthantheinteriorfoundationwalls.

• Never insulate a wall that is not dry and welldrained.

Almost all of the issues surrounding basement wallinsulation have to do with moisture and water vapor.How these issues affect your plans will depend a greatdeal on your climate, as well as on the specificcharacteristics of your house, your building site, andwhether or not your home was built with foundationdrainsandapumpingsystem.Until recently, basements most often were insulated

fromtheinsidebecauseitiseasier,faster,andcheaper.Atypical installationwouldbe toattachfurringstrips(2×2,2×3,or2×4)tothefoundationwallatstandardwallstud spacing, and then fill in between the strips withfiberglass insulation batts. A sheet plastic vapor barrierwould then be stapled over the insulated wall prior tohanging wallcoverings (usually wallboard or paneling).

Experience has shown thismodel to be a poormethod,very frequently leading to moisture buildup within thewall that encourages mold growth and has a negativeimpact on the indoor air quality.The buildingmaterialsalsotendtofailprematurelyfromthesustainedmoisturepresence.If your basement plans require that you insulate the

foundationwalls,makecertainthatthewallsaredryandthat any moisture problems are corrected (see previoussection). Then, look first at the exterior. Because it isoftenunnecessary to insulate the fullheightof thewall,youmayfindthatanexterioraproninsulatingapproachiseasier than you imagined (see pages 44 to 45). If yourcircumstancesabsolutelyrequirethatyouinsulateinside,use insulating products such as extruded polystyrene orfoil-faced isocyanurate that do not absorb water orprovide food for mold. You should also keep the wallisolated from the insulation: attach the insulation first,seal it, and then construct a studwall that hasnodirectcontact with the concrete or concrete block wall (seepages46to47).

Installinsulationontheexteriorofthewall,nottheinterior,wheneverpossible.Exteriorinsulationresultsinawarmwallthatwillhavelessofaproblemwithcondensation.Thewallalsocanbreatheanddryoutmoreeasilyiftheinteriorsidehasnovaporretarder.

High-EfficiencyUpgrades

Replace old gas water heaters with high-efficiencymodels.Not onlywill this savemoney on your utilitiesbill, itwill also keep your basementwarmer. Themoreefficientyourheateris,thelessairitwillrequireforfuelcombustion,whichmeanslessfreshcoldairisdrawnintothe basement to replace the air consumed by theappliance.

HowtoInsulateBasements

Installrigidfoaminsulationinbasements,bothontheexteriorandtheinterior.Extrudedpolystyrene(sometimescalledbeadboard)isaneconomicalchoiceforlargerareas,anditformsitsownvaporretardinglayerwhenproperlyinstalledandsealed.High-densitypolystyreneandisocyanruatearedenserinsulationboardswithhigherR-values.Isocyanurateusuallyhasoneortwofoilfaces.Itisusedtosealrimjoistsbutisagoodchoiceforanybasementwalllocation.

Improveinsulationandthermalsealsinatticsandotherpartsofyourhousetokeepbasementswarmerinwinter.Byreducingtheamountofwarmairthatescapesthroughtheroof,youwillreducetheamountofcoldairthatisdrawninthroughthebasementwallstoreplacetheair.

Sealfurnaceductstoreduceairleakage.UseacombinationofUL181-ratedducttape(foiltape)andductmastic.Ifcold-airreturnductsleak,forexample,theywilldrawairfromthebasementintotheairsupplysystem.Aswithheatlossthroughtheattic,thiswillcausefreshcoldairtoenterthebasementandlowertheambienttemperature.

WhatisaDryWall

Whenbuildingexpertswarnnever to insulateawallthatisn’tdry,theyhavesomethingveryspecificinmind.Awallthatappearsdrytothetouchmaynotbeclassifiedas dry if it is constantly evaporating small amounts ofmoisture thatwill be blocked if you install any kind ofvaporretarder(asislikelythecase).Adrywall(suitablefor interior insulation) is one that is superficially dry tothetouchandalsomeetsthesecriteria:

• Has a positive drainage system capable ofremovingwaterthataccumulatesfromanysource(thisistypicallyintheformofasumppump).

• The foundation wall and floor are structured toprovide drainage ofwater away from the house,often through the use of drain tiles and footingdrains.

InsulationSolution:ExteriorApronInsulation

Insulatefoundationwallsontheexteriorside(andnotthe interior) whenever you can. The easiest way toaccomplish this is by installing insulation in the apronareaonly,soyoudonothavetoexcavateall thewaytothe bottom of thewall. By adding a layer of horizontalinsulationinthebottomofthetrench,youcanrealizeatleast 70 percent of the energy savings of insulating thewhole wall, while limiting your digging to 18 inchesdownand24inchesout.Because you will be adding width to the foundation

wall by installing exterior insulation, you will need toinstallflashingtocoverthetopoftheinsulationlayerandwhatever protectivewall surface you cover it with. Forthe project shown here, the insulation is covered withpanelized veneer siding over one-inch-thick rigid foaminsulation boards. For extra protection, coat the cleanedwallswithalayerofbituminouscoatingbeforeinstallingtheinsulationboards.

Aproninsulationisaneasyandeffectivewaytoenhancecomfortinyourbasementwithoutcausinganymajormoistureissues.

HowtoInstallApronInsulation

Digan18×24"widetrenchnexttothewallbeinginsulated.Makesuretohaveyourlocalutilitiescompanyflaganylinesthatmaybeintheareafirst.

Coatthewallwithalayerofbituminouscoatingonceyouhavecleaneditwithahoseorpressurewasher.Thecoatingsimplycreatesanotherlayerofmoistureprotectionforthebasementandcanbeskippedifyouwish.

Linethetrenchwitha2"-thicklayerofcoarsesand,andthenstripsofrigidfoaminsulation.Thesandshouldslopeawayfromthehouseslightly,andtheinsulationstripsshouldbuttupagainstthefoundationwall.

Installdripedgeflashingtoprotectthetopsoftheinsulationboardandnewsiding.Prybackthebottomedgeofthesidingslightlyandsliptheflashingflangeupunderneaththesiding.Theflashingshouldextendoutfarenoughtocoverbothlayersofnewmaterial(atleast1-1/2to2").

Bondstripsofrigidfoaminsulationboardtothefoundationwallusingapaneladhesivethatiscompatiblewithfoam.Pressthetopsoftheboardsupagainstthedripedgeflashing.Whenalltheboardsareinstalled,tapeoverbuttedseamswithinsulationtape.

Installsidingoranotherprotectivelayerovertheinsulation.Here,2×4ft.fauxstonepanelsarebeingused.Oncethepanelsareinplace,backfillthetrenchwithdirtorgravel.Makesuretomaintainminimumslopesforrunoffatgrade.

InsulationSolutionforDryWalls:InteriorWallInsulation

Asageneralrule,avoidinsulatingtheinteriorsideofyour basementwalls. It is best to leave breathing spacefortheconcreteorblocksomoisturethatentersthroughthewalls isnot trapped. Ifyourexteriorbasementwallsmeetthedefinitionofadrywall(seepage43)however,addingsome interior insulationcan increase thecomfortlevelinyourbasement.Ifyouarebuildingastudwallforhangingwallcoveringmaterials,youcaninsulatebetweenthestudswithrigidfoam—donotusefiberglassbattsanddonot install avaporbarrier. Ifyouarebuildinga studwall, it’s a good idea to keep the wall away from thebasementwallsothereisanairchannelbetweenthetwo.

Interiorinsulationcanbeinstalledifyourfoundationwallsmeettheconditionsfordrywalls(seepage43).Itisimportanttokeeptheframedwallisolatedfromthebasementwallwithaseamlesslayerofrigidinsulationboard.

HowtoInsulateanInteriorBasementWall

Beginontheexteriorwallbydiggingatrenchandinstallinga2"-thickrigidfoaminsulationboarduptothebottomofthesidinganddownatleast6"belowgrade.Themainpurposeofthisinsulationistoinhibitconvectionandairtransferinthewallabovegrade.Seepages44to45formoreinformationonhowtouseflashingandsidingtoconcealandprotecttheinsulationboard.

Insulatetherimjoistwithstripsof2"-thickisocyanuraterigidinsulationwithfoilfacing.Besuretheinsulationyoupurchaseisratedforinteriorexposure(exteriorproductscanproducebadvapors).Useadhesivetobondtheinsulationtotherimjoist,andthencaulkaroundalltheedgeswithacousticsealant.

Sealandinsulatethetopofthefoundationwall,ifitisexposed,withstripsof1-1/2"-thick,foil-facedisocyanurateinsulation.Installthestripsusingthesametypeofadhesiveandcaulkyouusedfortherimjoistinsulation.

Attachsheetsof2"-thickextrudedpolystyreneinsulationtothewallfromthefloortothetopofthewall.Makesuretocleanthewallthoroughlyandletitdrycompletelybeforeinstallingtheinsulation.

Sealthegapsbetweentheinsulationboardswithinsulationvaporbarriertape.Donotcaulkgapsbetweentheinsulationboardsandthefloor.

Installastudwallbyfasteningthecapplatetotheceilingjoistsandthesoleplatetothefloor.Ifyouhavespace,allowanairchannelbetweenthestudsandtheinsulation.Donotinstallavaporbarrier.

ImprovingHeating&Cooling

Finishingabasementalmostalwaysrequiresthatyouexpandyourhomeheatingsystemtoheatthenewspaceor add a supplementary heat source, such as electricbaseboard heaters. Of these two options, installingbaseboard heaters is an easier DIY project that won’tcompromise your existing heating. But in the rightsituation, extending ductwork in a forced air system tothenew spacemaybe a feasibleproject. Inmost cases,extendingyourcurrentheatingsystemwillbeacheaperalternativeinthelongrunsincegastendstobeacheaperfuelthanelectricity(althoughincreasesinnaturalgasandheating oil prices have narrowed the price gapconsiderably).Although the actual work may not be difficult, you

shouldconsultaheatingandcoolingprofessionalbeforeyou decide to extend your furnace heat yourself. Homeheating systems are delicately balanced, and makingalterationsmayhaveramificationsthroughoutthesystemthatresultinyourfurnacebecomingoverworkedorotherareasofyourhousebeingunderserved.Remodelingcanalso create changes in your basement that impede thesupplyoffreshairtoyourfurnace,sobesuretonotethefurnace location on your plans when you apply for abuildingpermit.

InstallingbaseboardheatersisagoodDIYsolutionforheatingabasementroom.Theyareinexpensiveandrelativelyeasytoinstall,andtheywillnotimpactyourcurrenthomeheatingsystem.

Extendingyourductworktoprovideheattoabasementroomisfairlyeasy,aslongasyouhaveaccesstothetopoftherectangularairsupplyductandthereisajoistcavityintheprojectareaforrunningnewductwork.Butbesuretocheckwithacontractororinspectortomakesureyoursystemcanhandletheextrademands.

HeatingSolution:InstallBaseboardHeaters

Baseboard heaters are a popular way to provideadditionalheatingforanexistingroomorprimaryheattoaconvertedbasement.Heaters are generally wired on a dedicated 240-volt

circuitcontrolledbyathermostat.Severalheaterscanbewiredinparallelandcontrolledbyasinglethermostat.Baseboard heaters are generally surface mounted

without boxes, so in a remodeling situation, you onlyneedtoruncables.Besuretomarkcablelocationsonthefloor before installing drywall. Retrofit installations arealsonotdifficult.Youcanremoveexistingbaseboardandrunnewcableinthespacebehind.

HowMuchHeaterDoYouNeed?

If you don’t mind doing a little math, determininghowmanylinealfeetofbaseboardheateraroomrequiresisnothard.

1.Measuretheareaoftheroominsqft.(length×width):_____

2. Divide the area by 10 to get the baselineminimumwattage:_____

3.Add5%foreachnewerwindowor10%foreacholderwindow:_____

4. Add 10% for each exterior wall in the room:_____

5.Add10%foreachexteriordoor:_____

6. Add 10% if the space below is not insulated:_____

7. Add 20% if the space above is not wellinsulated:_____

8. Add 10% if ceiling is more than 8 ft. high:

_____

9.Totalofthebaselinewattageplusalladditions:_____

10. Divide this number by 250 (the wattageproduced per ft. of standard baseboard heater):_____

11. Round up to a whole number. This is theminimum number of feet of heater you need._____

Note:Itismuchbettertohavemorefeetofheaterthanisrequiredthanfewer.Havingmorefootageofheaterdoesnotconsumemoreenergy;itdoesallowtheheaterstoworkmoreefficiently.

PlanningTipsforBaseboardHeaters• 240-volt heaters are much more energy efficientthan120-voltheaters.

• Baseboard heaters require a dedicated circuit. A20-amp,240-voltcircuitof12-gaugecopperwirewillpowerupto16ft.ofheater.

•Do not install a heater beneath awall receptacle.Cordshangingdownfromthereceptacleareafirehazard.

• Do not mount heaters directly on the floor. Youshouldmaintainatleast1"ofclearspacebetweenthebaseboardheaterandthefloorcovering.

• Installing heaters directly beneath windows is agoodpractice.

•Locatewallthermostatsoninteriorwallsonly,anddonotinstalldirectlyaboveaheatsource.

HowtoInstalla240-voltBaseboardHeater

Cutasmallholeinthedrywall3to4"abovetheflooratheaterlocations.Pull12/2NMcablesthroughthefirsthole:onefromthethermostat,theothertothenextheater.Pullallthecablesforsubsequentheaters.Middle-of-runheaterswillhavetwocables,whileend-of-runheatershaveonlyonecable.

Removethecoveronthewireconnectionbox.Openaknockoutforeachcablethatwillenterthebox,thenfeedthecablesthroughthecableclampsandintothewireconnectionbox.Attachtheclampstothewireconnectionboxandtightentheclampscrewsuntilthecablesaregrippedfirmly.

Anchorheateragainstwallabout1"offthefloorbydrivingflatheadscrewsthroughbackofhousingandintostuds.Stripawaycablesheathingsoatleast1/2"ofsheathingextendsintotheheater.Strip3/4"ofinsulationfromeachwireusingacombinationtool.

Makeconnectionstotheheatingelementifthepowerwiresarecomingfromathermostatoranotherheatercontrolledbyathermostat.Connectthewhitecircuitwirestooneofthewireleadsontheheater.Tagwhitewireswithblacktapetoindicatetheyarehot.Connecttheblackcircuitwirestotheotherwirelead.Connectagroundingpigtailtothegreengroundingscrewinthebox,thenjoinallgroundingwireswithawireconnector.Reattachcover.

Oneheaterwithend-capthermostat.Runbothpowerleads(blackplustaggedneutral)intotheconnectionboxateitherendoftheheater.Ifinstallingasingle-polethermostat,connectonepowerleadtoonethermostatwireandconnecttheotherthermostatwiretooneoftheheaterleads.ConnecttheotherhotLINEwiretotheotherheaterlead.Ifyouareinstallingadouble-polethermostat,makeconnectionswithbothlegsofthepowersupply.

Multipleheaters.Atthefirstheater,joinbothhotwiresfromthethermostattothewiresleadingtothesecondheaterinline.Besuretotagallwhiteneutralshot.Twistcoppergroundwirestogetherandpigtailthemtothegroundingscrewinthebaseboardheaterjunctionbox.Thisparallelwiringconfigurationensuresthatpowerflowwillnotbeinterruptedtothedownstreamheatersifanupstreamheaterfails.

UpgradingVentilation

Inbasementsitisespeciallyimportantthatairbekeptmovingconstantly.Highhumidity levelscombinedwithstillorstagnantairleadstobuildupofmoldandmildew.If your basement rooms are part of a whole house,forced-air heating and cooling system, the natural airmovement created when the system is operating willprovide adequate air movement so no additionalventilation provisions need to be made (except inbasement bathrooms, where a vent fanwith an exteriorexhaustisrequired).If your basement has an independent heating system

(suchaselectricbaseboardheaters)anddoesnothaveairconditioning, add a ceiling-mounted vent fan in everyroom. If the rooms regularly have amusty odor, a ventfanisagoodidearegardlessofwhattypeofheatingandcoolingplantyouhave.

Note:High-efficiencyfurnacesandwaterheatershaveveryspecificrequirementsforfreshairintakesupply.Itisimportantthatyouconsultwiththefurnaceinstalleroryourlocalplumbinginspectorifyouaremakingalterationstotheairflowpatternsinyourbasement.

WiringaVentFan

Thislayoutletsyouplacetwoswitchescontrolledbythesame120-voltcircuitinonedouble-gangelectricalbox.Asingle-feedcableprovidespowertobothswitches.Astandardswitchcontrolsthelightfixtureandatime-delayswitchcontrolstheventfan.

Aventfanisrequiredinanybasementbathroom.Hookingupthefanunitiseasy,butrunningtheexhaustductworkcanbetrickysinceitisnormallyventedoutdoorsthroughtherimjoist.

Clothesdryersmustbeventedoutdoorsthroughductwork.Youmaynotventthemelsewhereinthebasement.

Flexiblemetaltubingmaybeusedtomaketheexhaustconnectionatthedryer,buttherestoftheductworkshouldbe4"rigidmetaltubing.

FanRatings

Checktheinformationlabelattachedtoeachventfanunit.Chooseaunitwithafanratingatleast5cfmhigherthanthesquarefootageofyourbathroom.Thesoneratingreferstoquietnessratedonascaleof1to7;quieterislower.

HowtoInstallVentilationDucts

Toplanyourventpiperoute(itcanbenolongerthan25ft.inmostplaces),startoutdoorsbyestablishingthebestlocationfortheventhood.Theideallocationisconcealedfromsightandkeptawayfromwindows.Inmostcases,itiseasiesttorunthepipethroughtherimjoistofyourhouse,butyoumayhavetocutthroughamasonryfoundationwall.Chooseaspotandmarkitwithtape.

Lookforadistinguishingpointinthehousestructurethatyoucanlocatepreciselyontheinteriorside.Awindow,sillcock,oranotherpenetrationintherimjoistisperfect.Measurethedistancefromthepointtothemarkedareawhereyouwanttoinstalltheventhood.

Ontheinteriorsideofthewall,generallyinthebasement,measurefromthestructuralobjectyouidentifiedtoseeifthepotentiallocationfortherimjoistentryisclearandaccessible.Alsochecktoseeifyoucanmakearelativelycleanruntotheventfan,withminimalturnsandminimalcuttingoffloorjoists.Findingthebestspotwillprobablytakesometrialanderrorandcompromising.

Outlineaholethat’sslightlylargerindiameterthantheventfittingthatwillgothroughthewall.Drillthroughtheholecenterintotherimjoistusingabitthat’slongenoughtopenetratetheexterior.Drilluntilthebitbreaksthroughintothelightofday.Note:Holesmustbeatleast2"fromeitheredgeofthejoistandtheirdiametercannotbemorethan⅓ofthejoistwidth.

Cutthesidingusingthedrillholeinthesidingasacenterpoint,drawtheoutlineforthecutoutonthesidingofyourhouse.Cutoutwithareciprocatingsawandremodeler’sblade.

Testthefitoftheventpipeassemblyafteryouremovethecutoutsectionofsidingandjoistmaterial.Widentheholeifnecessary.Oncetheassemblyfits,slidetheventhoodandpipeassemblyintotheholesotheventhoodflangefitsassnuglyagainstthesidingaspossible.

Attachtheventhoodtothesidingbydrivingscrewsatthecorners.

Applyexterior-ratedcaulkaroundtheperimeteroftheventhoodtomakeawatertightseal.Snapontheprotectivecage,ifprovided,tokeepsmallanimalsout.

Looselypackfiberglassinsulationbetweentheventductandtheedgesoftheopeningyoucut.Or,fillthegapswithminimalexpandingsprayfoaminsulation.

Runrigidmetalductworkfromtheventhoodtothefan.Ifyoucan,plantheroutesoyou’reinstallingtheductworkinthefloorjoistcavity.Thiswillleavemoreheadroomandlessenthechanceofdamagingthematerial.

Installanelbowattheendofthehorizontalductsoitconnectstotheventhood.Thenaddductworktoconnecttheothersideoftheelbowtothevent.

AddingElectricalCircuits

Finishingabasementalmostalwaysrequiresthatyouadd electrical circuits to service the new space. Todetermineyourelectricalneeds, thinkabout the finishedspaceandthetypesoffixturesyouplantoinclude.Also,consult the localbuildingdepartment tomakesureyourplanscomplywithlocalcodes.Thefollowingaresomeofthebasicelectricalelementstoconsider.The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires

receptaclestobespacednomorethan12ft.apart,butforconvenience you can space themas close as 6 ft. apart.Youmayneedsomenon-standardreceptacles,suchasaGFCI (for bathrooms andwet areas), a 20-amp or 240-volt receptacle (for large appliances), and an isolated-ground receptacle (for a computer). Also consider theplacementoffurnitureinthefinishedroom;avoidplacingreceptacles or baseboard heaters where they may beblockedbyfurniture.Lightingisanimportantconsiderationforeveryroom,

particularlyroomswithlimitedsourcesofambient light.Most codes require that each room have at least oneswitch-controlled light fixture, with the switch placednear the room’s entrance. Stairwaysmust have lightingthat illuminates each step, and the fixture must becontrolled by three-way switches at the top and bottomlandings. Hallways and closets also need switch-

controlled lights. In addition to meeting coderequirements,yourlightingplanshouldincludedifferenttypesoflightingtoprovideversatilityforeverydaytasksas well as visual warmth. This is especially true inbasements,whichgenerallyneedmoreartificiallightthanupperfloors.Ithelpstouseplentyofindirectlightingtoeliminateshadowsandprovideambientbackgroundlight.Your basement room may need additional wiring to

supplyauxiliaryHVACequipment, suchasabaseboardheater. If you’ll be installing an electric radiant heatingsystem for supplemental heat, find out what type ofcircuitwiringthesystemrequires.Oneway to avoid long wiring runs and crowding of

the main service panel is to install a circuit breakersubpanelinornearthefinishedspace.Asubpanelgetsitspowersupplyfromasinglecableleadingfromthemainpanel.Withadequateamperage,asubpanelcanserveallofthecircuitsnecessaryforthefinishedspace—allfromaconvenientlocation.

Mapoutnewelectricalcircuitsforyourroom.Thecircuitsforthishomeofficeadditionstartatasubpanel,whichispoweredfromthemainservicepanel.Circuit1controlstheroom’slightingandstandardreceptacles.Circuit2providespowertoathermostatandtwobaseboardheaterunits.Circuit3feedsanisolatedgroundreceptacleforcomputerequipment.

PlanningWiringCircuits

Examineyourmainservice.Theampratingoftheelectricalserviceandthesizeofthecircuitbreakerpanelwillhelpyoudetermineifaserviceupgradeisneeded.

Learnaboutcodes.The(NEC)andlocalelectricalcodesandbuildingcodes,provideguidelinesfordetermininghowmuchpowerandhowmanycircuitsyourhomeneeds.Yourlocalelectricalinspectorcantellyouwhichregulationsapplytoyourjob.

Prepareforinspections.Rememberthatyourworkmustbereviewedbyyourlocalelectricalinspector.Whenplanningyourwiringproject,alwaysfollowtheinspector’sguidelinesforqualityworkmanship.

Evaluateelectricalloads.Newcircuitsputanaddedloadonyourelectricalservice.Makesurethatthetotalloadoftheexistingwiringandtheplannednewcircuitsdoesnotexceedthemainservicecapacity.

YourMainServicePanel

Everyhomehasamainservicepanelthatdistributeselectrical current to the individual circuits. The mainservicepanelisusuallyfoundinthebasement,garage,orutility area, and can be identified by its metal casing.Beforemakingany repair toyourelectrical system,youmust shut off power to the correct circuit at the mainservice panel. The service panel should be indexed socircuitscanbeidentifiedeasily.Service panels vary in appearance, depending on the

age of the system.Very oldwiringmay operate on 30-amp service that has only two circuits.Newhomes canhave200-ampservicewith30ormorecircuits.Findthesizeoftheservicebyreadingtheamperageratingprintedonthemainfuseblockormaincircuitbreaker.Regardless of age, all service panels have fuses or

circuit breakers (page 59) that control each circuit andprotect them from overloads. In general, older servicepanels use fuses,while newer service panels use circuitbreakers.In addition to the main service panel, your electrical

system may have a subpanel that controls some of thecircuits in the home. A subpanel has its own circuitbreakers or fuses and is installed to control circuits thathavebeenaddedtoanexistingwiringsystem.The subpanel resembles themain servicepanelbut is

usuallysmaller.Itmaybelocatednearthemainpanel,oritmaybefoundneartheareasservedbythenewcircuits.Garages and basements that have been updated oftenhave theirownsubpanels. Ifyourhomehasa subpanel,makesurethatitscircuitsareindexedcorrectly.Whenhandlingfusesorcircuitbreakers,makesurethe

area around the service panel is dry. Never remove theprotectivecoverontheservicepanel.Afterturningoffacircuittomakeelectricalrepairs,remembertoalwaystestthecircuitforpowerbeforetouchinganywires.

Themainservicepanelistheheartofyourwiringsystem.Asourdemandforhouseholdenergyhasincreased,thepanelshavealsogrownincapacity.Today,a200-amppanelisconsideredtheminimumfornewconstruction.

Acircuitbreakerpanelproviding100ampsormoreofpoweriscommoninwiringsystemsinstalledduringthe1960sandlater.Acircuitbreakerpanelishousedinagraymetalcabinetthatcontainstworowsofindividualcircuitbreakers.Thesizeoftheservicecanbeidentifiedbyreadingtheamperageratingofthemaincircuitbreaker,whichislocatedatthetoporbottomofthemainservicepanel.

A100-ampservicepanelisnowtheminimumstandardforallnewhousing.Itisconsideredadequateforamedium-sizedhousewithnomorethanthreemajorelectricalappliances.However,largerhouseswithmoreelectricalappliancesrequireaservicepanelthatprovides150ampsormore;200ampsarebecomingthestandard.

Toshutoffpowertoindividualcircuitsinacircuitbreakerpanel,fliptheleverontheappropriatecircuitbreakertotheOFFposition.Toshutoffthe

powertotheentirehouse,turnthemaincircuitbreakertotheOFFposition.

A60-ampfusepanelisoftenfoundinwiringsystemsinstalledbetween1950and1965.Itisusuallyhousedinagraymetalcabinetthatcontainsfourindividualplugfuses,plusoneortwopull-outfuseblocksthatholdcartridgefuses.Thistypeofpanelisregardedasadequateforasmall,1,100-sqft.housethathasnomorethanone240-voltappliance.Manyhomeownersupdate60-ampserviceto100ampsormoresothatadditionallightingandappliancecircuitscanbeaddedtothesystem.Homeloanprogramsalsomayrequirethat60-ampservicebeupdatedbeforeahomecanqualifyforfinancing.

Toshutoffpowertoacircuit,carefullyunscrewtheplugfuse,touchingonlyitsinsulatedrim.Toshutoffpowertotheentirehouse,holdthehandleofthemainfuseblockandpullsharplytoremoveit.Majorappliancecircuitsarecontrolledwithanothercartridgefuseblock.Shutofftheappliancecircuitbypullingoutthisfuseblock.

ConnectingBreakersforNewCircuits

Thelaststepinawiringprojectisconnectingcircuitsatthebreakerpanel.Afterthisisdone,theworkisreadyforthefinalinspection.Circuits are connected at themain breaker panel if it

has enough open slots, or at a circuit breaker subpanel.When working at a subpanel, make sure the feederbreakeratthemainpanelhasbeenturnedoff,andtestforpower (photo, right) before touching any parts in thesubpanel.Make sure the circuit breaker amperage does not

exceed the ampacity of the circuit wires you areconnectingtoit.Alsobeawarethatcircuitbreakerstylesand installation techniques vary according tomanufacturer. Use breakers designed for your type ofpanel.

Testforcurrentbeforetouchinganypartsinsideacircuitbreakerpanel.Withthemainbreakerturnedoffbutallotherbreakersturnedon,touchoneprobeofaneontestertotheneutralbusbar,andtouchtheotherprobetoeachsetscrewononeofthedouble-polebreakers(notthemainbreaker).Iftesterdoesnotlightforeithersetscrew,itissafetoworkinthepanel.

HowtoConnectCircuitBreakers

Removethepanelcoverplateafteryoushutoffthemaincircuitbreakerinthemaincircuitbreakerpanel.(Ifyouareworkinginasubpanel,shutoffthefeederbreakerinthemainpanel.)Takecarenottotouchthepartsinsidethepanel.Testforpower.

Openaknockoutinthesideofthecircuitbreakerpanelusingascrewdriverandhammer.Attachacableclamptotheknockout.

Holdcableacrossthefrontofthepanelneartheknockout,andmarksheathingabout1/2"insidetheedgeofthepanel.Stripthecablefrommarkedlinetoendusingacableripper.(Thereshouldbe18to24"ofexcesscable.)Insertthecablethroughtheclampandintotheservicepanel,thentightentheclamp.

Bendthebarecoppergroundingwirearoundtheinsideedgeofthepaneltoanopensetscrewterminalonthegroundingbusbar.Insertthewireintotheopeningonthebusbar,andtightenthesetscrew.Foldexcesswirearoundtheinsideedgeofthepanel.

Bendthewhitecircuitwirefor120-voltcircuitsaroundtheoutsideofthepaneltoanopensetscrewterminalontheneutralbusbar.Clipawayexcesswire,thenstrip1/2"ofinsulationfromthewireusingacombinationtool.Insertthewireintotheterminalopening,andtightenthesetscrew.

Strip1/2"ofinsulationfromtheendoftheblackcircuitwire.Insertthewireintothesetscrewterminalonanewsingle-polecircuitbreaker,andtightenthesetscrew.

Slideoneendofthecircuitbreakerontotheguidehook,thenpressitfirmlyagainstthebusbaruntilitsnapsintoplace.(Breakerinstallationmayvarydependingonthemanufacturer.)Foldexcessblackwirearoundtheinsideedgeofthepanel.

120/240-voltcircuits:Connectredandblackwirestoadouble-polebreaker.Connectwhitewiretotheneutralbusbar,andgroundingwiretothegroundingbusbar.For240-voltcircuits,attachwhiteandblackwirestothedouble-polebreaker,taggingwhitewirewithblacktape.Thereisnoneutralbusbarconnectiononthiscircuit.

Removetheappropriatebreakerknockoutonthepanelcoverplatetomakeroomforthenewcircuitbreaker.Asingle-polebreakerrequiresoneknockout,whileadouble-polebreakerrequirestwoknockouts.Reattachthecoverplate,andlabelthenewcircuitonthepanelindex.

HowtoRunNewCircuitCable

Drill5/8"holesinframingmembersforthecableruns.Thisisdoneeasilywitharight-angledrill,availableatrentalcenters.Holesshouldbesetbackatleast1-1/4"fromthefrontfaceoftheframingmembers.

Wherecableswillturncorners,drillintersectingholesinadjoiningfacesofstuds.Measureandcutallcables,allowing2ft.extraatendsenteringthebreakerpaneland1ft.forendsenteringtheelectricalbox.

Shutoffpowertocircuitbreakerpanel.Useacablerippertostripcable,leavingatleast1/4"ofsheathingtoenterthecircuitbreakerpanel.Clipawaytheexcesssheathing.

Openaknockoutinthecircuitbreakerpanelusingahammerandscrewdriver.Insertacableclampintotheknockout,andsecureitwithalocknut.Insertthecablethroughtheclampsothatatleast1/2"ofsheathingextendsinsidethecircuitbreakerpanel.Tightenthemountingscrewsontheclampsothecableisgrippedsecurelybutnotsotightlythatthesheathingiscrushed.

Anchorthecabletothecenterofaframingmemberwithin12"ofthecircuitbreakerpanelusingacablestaple.Stack-It®staplesworkwellwheretwoormorecablesmustbeanchoredtothesamesideofastud.Runthecabletothefirstelectricalbox.Wherethecablerunsalongthesidesofframingmembers,anchoritwithcablestaplesnomorethan4ft.apart.

Atcorners,formaslightL-shapedbendintheendofthecableandinsertitintoonehole.Retrievethecablethroughtheotherholeusingneedlenosepliers(inset).

Staplethecabletoaframingmember8"fromthebox.Holdthecabletautagainstthefrontofthebox,andmarkapointonthesheathing1/2"pasttheboxedge.Removesheathingfromthemarkedlinetotheendusingacableripper,andclipawayexcesssheathingwithacombinationtool.Insertthecablethroughtheknockoutinthebox.

Variation:Differenttypesofboxeshavedifferentclampingdevices.Makesurecablesheathingextends1/2"pasttheedgeoftheclamptoensurethatthecableissecureandthatthewirewon’tbedamagedbytheedgesoftheclamp.

Clipbackeachwireaseachcableisinstalledinabox,sothat8"ofworkablewireextendspastthefrontedgeofthebox.

Strip3/4"ofinsulationfromeachcircuitwireintheboxusingacombinationtool.Takecarenottonickthecopper.

Continuethecircuitbyrunningcablebetweeneachpairofelectricalboxes,leavinganextra1footofcableateachend.

Atmetalboxesandrecessedfixtures,openknockouts,andattachcableswithcableclamps.Frominsidefixture,stripawayallbut1/4"ofsheathing.Clipbackwiressothereis8"ofworkablelength,thenstrip3/4"ofinsulationfromeachwire.

Staplethecabletoastudnearthefixturelocationforasurface-mountedfixturelikeabaseboardheaterorfluorescentlightfixture.Leaveplentyofexcesscable.Markthefloorsothecablewillbeeasytofindafterthewallsarefinished.

Connectoneendofagroundingpigtailateachrecessedfixtureandmetalelectricalbox,tothemetalframeusingagroundingclipattachedtotheframe(shownabove)oragreengroundingscrew.

Joingroundingwirestogetherwithawireconnectorateachelectricalboxandrecessedfixture.Iftheboxhasinternalclamps,tightentheclampsoverthecables.

Labelthecablesenteringeachboxtoindicatetheirdestinations.Inboxeswithcomplexwiringconfigurations,alsotagtheindividualwirestomakefinalhookupseasier.Afterallthecablesareinstalled,yourrough-inworkisreadytobereviewedbytheelectricalinspector.

Floors

Notevery floorcovering iswell suited forbasementfloors, but there are enough good options to afford realchoices. If you do extra preparation work, youmay beable to install some flooring types that are typically notusedinbasements.Flooringthatcanbeinstalledwithrelativelylittlefloor

preparation includes ceramic tile and wood laminatestrips.Inmostcases,thethinsetmortarthatservesasthebedforfloortilescanbeapplieddirectlytotheconcrete,andthelaminatestripscanbelaidontopofathinfoamunderlaymentpadthat’srolledoutontotheconcrete.Other flooring types that work well in basements

include sheet vinyl, vinyl tile, and some types ofcarpeting. All of these are best installed with anunderlayment layer and a subfloor.The subfloor can beinstalledonwoodsleeperstoraiseitofftheconcrete,oryou can select subfloor panels with a built-in isolationlayer.The primary goal when choosing flooring for a

basement is to select a product that does not readilyabsorbwaterandiseasytoclean.Inthischapter:

PreparingBasementFloorsCreatingDecorativeConcreteFinishesInstallingRadiantFloors

LayingTileFloorsInstallingLaminatePlankFloorsLayingResilientTileFloorsInstallingRubberRollFloorsLayingCarpet

PreparingBasementFloors

Preparingaconcretefloorforcarpet,laminate,vinyl,orwoodflooringhasbeensimplifiedbytheintroductionofnewsubfloorproductsthathavebuilt-invaporbarriersandcleatsthatcreateaslightairgapbetweenthesubfloorandtheconcreteslab.Thissystemallowsairtocirculate,protecting the finished flooring from any slabmoisture.Thenewdry-floorsubfloorsystemsarelessthanoneinchthickandareveryeasytoinstall.Thereareseveraltypesof these dry-floor systems available, but the one mostreadilyavailableandeasiesttouseisaproductsoldin2×2feettongue-and-groovesquares.Although subfloor panels can be adjusted for slight

irregularities in the concrete slab, they can’t overcomeproblemswith a floor that isbadly crackedandheaved.Noristhebuilt-inairgapbeneaththesystemasolutiontoa basement that has serious water problems. A badlyheavedslabwillneedtobeleveledwithacement-basedlevelingcompound,andseriouswaterproblemswillneedto be rectified before you consider creating finishedlivingspaceinabasement.Allow the subfloor panel squares to acclimate in the

basement for at least 24 hourswith the plastic surfacesfacing down before installing them. In humid summermonths, the squares—as well as the finished woodflooring product, if that’s what you’ll be installing—

should be allowed to acclimate for a full two weeksbeforeinstallation.Theoldwayofinstallingsubfloor(plywoodover2×4

sleepers)doesmakeasturdyfloorandhastheadvantageofnotrequiringanyspecialproducts—youcandoitwithmaterialsfoundatanybuildingcenter.Insteadofasubfloorandplywoodunderlayment,some

flooringrequiresanisolationlayertoseparateitfromtheconcrete basement floor. These aremost often installedwithceramicfloors.If your concrete basement floor has cracks, holes, or

other imperfections, address them before installingflooring.

Concretebasementfloorshaveahighutilityvalue,butwheneverpossibleyou’llwanttocoverthemtoimprovelivabilityinyournewbasementrooms.Somefloorcoveringscanbeinstalleddirectlyovertheconcrete,butinmostcasesyoushouldlaysubfloorpanelsandunderlaymentbeforeinstallingthefloorcovering.Asystemliketheoneaboveisidealforbasementsbecauseitcanberemovedreadily:thelaminatestripflooringsnapstogetherandapart;theunderlaymentisunbondedandcanberolledup;andthesubfloorpanelsalsoaresnap-togetherforeasyremovalandre-laying.

ApplyFloorLeveler

Usefloorlevelermixoramortarmixturetofillinsmalldipsintheconcretefloor.

LevelingBasementFloors

Testthefloortoseehowlevelitis.Usealaserleveltoprojectalevellineonallwalls.Markthelineandthenmeasuredowntothefloor.Comparemeasurementstodetermineiffloorislevel.Ifyouareinstallingasubflooryoucancorrecttheunevennessbyshimmingunderlowareas.Butifthefloorheightvariesbymorethananinchortwo(notuncommon),youshouldpourfloorlevelercompoundinthelowareas.Inmoreextremeexamplesyou’llneedtoresurfacetheentirefloor.

Breakupandremoveveryhighareasoreruptions,andpatchtheareawithconcretethatisleveledwiththesurroundingsurfaces.Usearentaljackhammertobreakuptheconcrete.Ahandmaulandcoldchiselalsomaybeusediftheareaisnottoolarge:mostconcretebasementfloorsareonly3to4"thick.

Grinddownhighspotsiftheyaresmallandfarapart.Arentedconcretegrindermakesquickworkofthejob.Evenlargerareascanbegrounddown,ifyourceilingheightisalreadylimited(lessthan7ft.).

HowtoRepairFloorCracks

Preparethecrackfortherepairmaterialsbyknockingawayanylooseordeterioratingmaterialandbevelingtheedgesdownandoutwardwithacoldchisel.Sweeporvacuumthedebrisandthoroughlydampentherepairarea.Donotallowanywatertopool,however.

Mixtherepairproducttofillthecrackaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions.Here,afast-settingcementrepairproductwithacrylicfortifierisbeingused.Troweltheproductintothecrack,overfillingslightly.Withtheedgeofthetrowel,trimtheexcessmaterialandfeatheritsoitissmoothandthetexturematchesthesurroundingsurface.

Howtopatchasmallhole

Cutoutaroundthedamagedareawithamasonry-grindingdiscmountedonaportabledrill(oruseahammerandstonechisel).Thecutsshouldbevelabout15°awayfromthecenterofthedamagedarea.Chiseloutanylooseconcretewithintherepairarea.Alwayswearglovesandeyeprotection.

Dampentherepairareawithcleanwaterandthenfillitwithvinylconcretepatcher.Packthematerialinwithatrowel,allowingittocrownslightlyabovethesurroundingsurface.Then,feathertheedgessotherepairissmoothandflat.Protecttherepairfromfoottrafficforatleastonedayandfromvehicletrafficforthreedays.

HowtoPatchaLargeHole

Useahammerandchiseloraheavyfloorscrapertoremoveallmaterialthatislooseorshowsanydeterioration.Thoroughlycleantheareawithahoseandnozzleorapressurewasher.

OPTION:Makebeveledcutsaroundtheperimeteroftherepairareawithacircularsawandmasonry-cuttingblade.Thebevelsshouldslantdownandawayfromthedamagetocreatea“key”fortherepairmaterial.

Mixconcretepatchingcompoundaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions,andthentrowelitneatlyintothedamagearea,whichshouldbedampenedbeforethepatchingmaterialisplaced.Overfillthedamageareaslightly.

Smoothandfeathertherepairwithasteeltrowelsoitisevenwiththesurroundingconcretesurface.Finishthesurfaceoftherepairmaterialtoblendwiththeexistingsurface.Forexample,useawhiskbroomtorecreateabroomedfinish.Protecttherepairfromfoottrafficforatleastonedayandfromvehicletrafficforthreedays.

ResurfacingaConcreteFloor

Badly degraded concrete basement floors can berestored by applying a topcoat of floor resurfacer. Thiscement-based product is designed to be poured on as athickliquidsoitcanusegravitytofindandfillinthelowareas. After the resurfacer has set up, you will have asurface that’s flat and smooth enough for installing justabout any floorcovering you choose, including paddedcarpetandfloatingfloorswithunderlaymentpads.Concrete resurfacer typicallyshouldnotbeapplied in

layers thicker than one-half inch. If your floor has lowareasgreater than this, fill themwith sand-mixconcretefirsttogetthelowspotsclosetolevel,andthentopwithresurfaceroverthewholefloor.

Concreteresurfaceroffersaneasy,inexpensivesolutionforrenewingconcretesurfacesinbasements.

HowtoResurfaceaConcreteFloor

Thoroughlycleantheentireprojectarea.Ifnecessary,removealloilandgreasyorwaxyresidueusingaconcretecleanerandscrubbrush.Waterbeadingonthesurfaceindicatesresiduethatcouldpreventproperadhesionwiththeresurfacer;cleantheseareasagainasneeded.

Washtheconcretewithapressurewasher.Holdthefan-spraytipabout3"fromthesurfaceorasrecommendedbythewashermanufacturer.Removestandingwater.

Fillsizeablepitsandspalledareasusingasmallbatchofconcreteresurfacer—mixabout5pintsofwaterper40-lb.bagofresurfacerforatrowelableconsistency.Repaircracksasshownonpage70.Smooththerepairslevelwiththesurroundingsurface,andletthemharden.

Sectionofftheslabonalargeprojectintoareasnolargerthan100sq.ft.It’seasiesttodelineatesectionsalongexistingcontroljoints.Onallprojects,coverorsealoffallcontroljointswithducttape,foambackerrod,orweatherstrippingtopreventresurfacerfromspillingintothejoints.

Mixthedesiredquantityofconcreteresurfacerwithwater,followingthemixinginstructions.Workthemixwitha1/2"drillandamixingpaddlefor5minutestoachieveasmooth,pourableconsistency.Ifnecessary,addwatersparinglyuntilthemixwillpoureasilyandspreadwellwithasqueegee.

Saturatetheworkareawithwater,thenuseasqueegeetoremoveanystandingwater.Pourthemixofconcreteresurfacerontothecenteroftherepairareaorfirstrepairsection.

Spreadtheresurfacerwiththesqueegee,usingascrubbingmotiontomakesurealldepressionsarefilled.Thenspreaditintoasmooth,consistentlayer.Ifdesired,broomthesurfaceforanonslipfinish.Youcanalsotooltheslabedgeswithaconcreteedgerwithin20minutesofapplication.Lettheresurfacercure.

HowtoInstallIsolationMembrane

Isolation membrane is used to protect ceramic tileinstallations frommovement thatmay occur on crackedconcrete floors. This product is used primarily forcovering individual cracks, but it can be used over anentire floor. Isolation membrane is also available in aliquidformthatcanbepouredovertheprojectarea.

Thoroughlycleanthesubfloor,thenapplythin-setmortarwitha1/8"notchedtrowel.Startspreadingthemortaralongthefloorinasectionaswideasthemembraneand8to10ft.long.Note:Forsomemembranes,youmustuseabondingmaterialotherthanmortar.Readandfollowmanufacturer’sdirections.

Rolloutthemembraneoverthemortar.Cutthemembranetofittightlyagainstthewallsusingastraightedgeandutilityknife.

Startinginthecenterofthemembrane,useaheavyfloorrollertosmoothoutthesurfacetowardtheedges.Thisfreestrappedairandpressesoutexcessbondingmaterial.

Repeatsteps1through3,cuttingthemembraneasnecessaryatthewallsandobstacles,untiltheflooriscompletelycoveredwithmembrane.Donotoverlaptheseams,butmakesurethey’retight.Allowthemortartosetfortwodaysbeforeinstallingthetile.

SubfloorPreparationbyFlooringType

Dry-floorpanelsareneededifcarpetingwillbeinstalled.Anchorthepanelstotheflooraroundtheperimeteroftheroomandatthecenteroftheroomusingconcretemasonryanchors.Useapowder-actuatednailertodrive2"nailsthroughthepanelsandintotheconcreteslab.

Resilientflooringforengineeredwoodflooring,install1/4"plywoodunderlaymentoverthedry-floorpanels,using1/2"screwsornails,whichwon’tpenetratethemoisturebarrierontheundersideofthepanels.Don’tgluetheplywoodtothesubfloorpanels,andnevergluevinylflooringdirectlytothesubfloorpanels.

Forceramictile,install1/2“cementboardoverthesubfloorpanels,andattachitusing3/4“screws.Youmayalsosettilesintoamortarbedthat’sspreaddirectlyontotheconcreteifthefloorisingoodshape.Anotheroptiontotheconstructionshownaboveistoinstallanisolationmembraneinsteadofasubfloorsocracksdonottelegraph(seepreviouspage).

Transitionstrips

Insomecasesyou’llneedtoinstallmorethanonetypeofflooring,whichcancauseyoutohavedifferentfinishedfloorheights.Inthesesituations,installtransitionstripsorreducers(soldatflooringretailers)tobridgethechangesinfloorheight.

HowtoInstallInterlockingSubfloorPanels

Startatonecorner,andmeasurethelengthandwidthoftheroomfromthatstartingpoint.Calculatethenumberofpanelsyouwillneedtocoverthespaceinbothdirections.Ifthestartingcornerisnotsquare,trimthefirstrowtocreateastraightstartingline.

Createanexpansiongaparoundtheedges.Place1/4"spacersatallwalls,doors,andotherlargeobstacles.Tomakeyourownspacers,cutsheetsof1/4"plywoodtothethicknessofthepanelsandholdtheminplacetemporarilywithadhesivetape.

Dry-layarowofpanelsacrosstheroom.Ifthelastrowwillbelessthan6"wide,balanceitbytrimmingthefirstpanelorthestartingrow,ifnecessary,toaccountfortherowendpieces.

Startinginthecorner,laythefirstpanelwiththegroovedsideagainstthe1/4"spacers.Slidethenextpanelintoplaceandpress-fitthegrooveofthesecondpanelontothetongueofthefirst.Checktheedgesagainstthewall.

Repeatthesestepstocompletethefirstrow.Ifnecessary,tapthepanelsintoplacewithascrappieceoflumberandarubbermalletorhammer—justbecarefulnottodamagethetongueorgrooveedges.

Cutthelastpaneltofitsnuglybetweenthenext-to-lastpanelandthe1/4"spaceronthefarwall.Installthelastpanelatanangleandtapitdown.Startingwiththesecondrow,staggertheseamssothatthepanelsinterlock.Continueworkingfromthestartingpoint,checkingaftereachrowtobesurethepanelsaresquareandlevel.

Whenyoureachthelastrowandlastpaneltocompleteyourinstallation,youmayhavetocutthepaneltofit.Measureforfit,allowingforthe1/4"expansiongapfromthewall.Cutthepanelandfititintoplace.

Removethespacersfromaroundtheperimeteroftheroomwhenallthepanelsareinplaceandthefinishedfloorisinstalled.

Tip

Iftheroomhasafloordrain,buildingcoderequiresthatyoucutaroundpatchinthepanelthatfallsdirectlyoverthefloordrain.Thispatchcanberemovedtoallowaccesstothefloordrain,shoulditeverbenecessary.

HowtoInstallSubfloorSleepers

TheSleeperSystem

Sleepersarestripsoflumber(2×4or1×4)thatarelaidoveramoisturebarrieronaconcretefloortoserveasnailersforthesubfloorandtoisolateitfromdirectcontactwiththeconcretefloor.

Rolloutstripsof6-milpolyethylenesheeting.Overlapstripsby6",thensealtheseamswithvaporbarrier,tape,orpackingtape.Temporarilytapetheedgesalongthewalls.Becarefulnottodamagethesheeting.

Layoutpressure-treated2×4salongtheperimeteroftheroom.Positiontheboards1/2"infromallwalls(inset).Note:Beforelayingoutthesleepers,determinewherethepartitionwallswillgo.Ifawallwillfallbetweenparallelsleepers,addanextrasleepertosupporttheplannedwall.

Installsleepersusingacircularsaw,cutthesleeperstofitbetweentheperimeterboardsleavinga1/4"gapateachend.Positionthefirstsleepersoitscenteris16"fromtheoutsideedgeoftheperimeterboard.Layouttheremainingsleepersusing16"-on-centerspacing.

Wherenecessary,usetaperedcedarshimstocompensatefordipsandvariationsinthefloor.Placea4-ft.levelacrossneighboringsleepers.Applyconstructionadhesivetotwowoodshims.Slidetheshimsundertheboardfromoppositesidesuntiltheboardislevelwithadjacentsleepers.

Fastentheperimeterboardsandsleeperstothefloorusingapowder-actuatednailerormasonryscrews.Driveafastenerthroughthecenterofeachboardat16"intervals.Fastenerheadsshouldnotprotrudeabovetheboard’ssurface.Placeafastenerateachshimlocation,makingsurethefastenerpenetratesbothshims.

Establishacontrollineforthefirstrowofplywoodsheetsbymeasuring49"fromthewallandmarkingtheoutsidesleeperateachendoftheroom.Snapachalklineacrossthesleepersatthemarks.Runa1/4"-widebeadofadhesivealongthefirstsixsleepers,stoppingjustshortofthecontrolline.

Positionthefirstsheetof3/4"plywoodsubfloorsotheendis1/2"awayfromthewallandthegroovededgeisflushwiththecontrolline.Fastenthesheettothesleepersusing2"wallboardscrews.Driveascrewevery6"alongtheedgesandevery8"inthefield.Don’tdrivescrewsalongthegroovededgeuntilthenextrowofsheetingisinplace.

Installtheremainingsheetsinthefirstrow,maintainingan1/8"gapbetweenends.Beginthesecondrowwithahalfsheet(4ft.long)sotheendjointsbetweenrowsarestaggered.Fitthetongueofthehalfsheetintothegrooveoftheadjoiningsheet.Ifnecessary,useasledgehammerandwoodblocktohelpclosethejoint.Aftercompletingthesecondrow,beginthethirdrowwithafullsheet.Alternatethispatternuntilthesubflooriscomplete.

CreatingDecorativeConcreteFinishes

Most people are accustomed to thinking of concreteprimarilyasautilitariansubstance,butitcanalsomimicavarietyofflooringtypesandbeacolorfulandbeautifuladditiontoyourbasementroom.Concreteisahardanddurablebuildingmaterial,butit

is also porous—so it is susceptible to staining. Manystainscanberemovedwiththepropercleaner,butsealingand painting prevents oil, grease, and other stains frompenetratingthesurfaceinthefirstplace;andcleanupisawholeloteasier.Evenafterdegreasingaconcretefloor,residualgrease

oroilscancreateseriousadhesionproblemsforcoatingsof sealant or paint. To check to seewhether your floorhasbeenadequatelycleaned,pouraglassofwaterontheconcrete floor. If it is ready for sealing, the water willsoak into the surface quickly and evenly. If the waterbeads,youmayhavetocleanitagain.Detergentusedincombination with a steam cleaner can remove stubbornstainsbetterthanacleaneralone.Therearefourimportantreasonstosealyourconcrete

floor:toprotectthefloorfromdirt,oil,grease,chemicals,andstains; todust-proof thesurface; toprotect the floorfromabrasionandsunlightexposure; and to repelwaterandprotectthefloorfromfreeze-thawdamage.

Etchingandsealingaconcretefloorthatisingoodconditionyieldsaslick-lookingsurfacethathasacontemporaryfeelandiseasytomaintain.

HowtoSealConcreteBasementFloors

Cleanandpreparethesurfacebyfirstsweepingupalldebris.Next,removeallsurfacemuck:mud,wax,andgrease.Finally,removeexistingpaintsorcoatings.

Saturatethesurfacewithcleanwater.Thesurfaceneedstobewetbeforeacidetching.Usethisopportunitytocheckforanyareaswherewaterbeadsup.Ifwaterbeadsonthesurface,contaminantsstillneedtobecleanedoffwithasuitablecleanerorchemicalstripper.

Testyouracid-tolerantpumpsprayerwithwatertomakesureitreleasesawide,evenmist.Onceyouhavethespraynozzleset,checkthemanufacturer’sinstructionsfortheetchingsolutionandfillthepumpsprayer(orsprinklingcan)withtherecommendedamountofwater.

Addtheacidetchingcontentstothewaterintheacid-tolerantpumpsprayer.Followthedirections(andmixingproportions)specifiedbythemanufacturer.Usecautionandwearsafetyequipment.

Applytheacidsolution.Usingthesprinklingcanoracid-tolerantpumpsprayunit,evenlyapplythedilutedacidsolutionovertheconcretefloor.Donotallowacidsolutiontodryatanytimeduringtheetchingandcleaningprocess.Etchsmallareasatatime,10×10ft.orsmaller.Ifthereisaslope,beginonthelowsideoftheslopeandworkupward.

Useastiff-bristlebroomorscrubbertoworktheacidsolutionintotheconcrete.Lettheacidsitfor5to10minutes,orasindicatedbythemanufacturer’sdirections.Amildfoamingactionindicatesthattheproductisworking.Ifnobubblingorfizzingoccurs,itmeansthereisstillgrease,oil,oraconcretetreatmentonthesurfacethatisinterfering.Ifthisoccurs,followsteps7to12andthencleanagain.

Oncethefizzinghasstopped,theacidhasfinishedreactingwiththealkalineconcretesurfaceandformedpH-neutralsalts.Neutralizeanyremainingacidwithanalkaline-basesolution.Put1gal.ofwaterina5-gal.bucketandthenstirinanalkaline-baseneutralizer.Usingastiff-bristlebroom,makesuretheconcretesurfaceiscompletelycoveredwiththesolution.Continuetosweepuntilthefizzingstops.

Useagardenhosewithapressurenozzleor,ideally,apressurewasherinconjunctionwithastiff-bristlebroomtothoroughlyrinsetheconcretesurface.Rinsethesurfacetwotothreetimes.Reapplytheacid(repeatsteps5,6,7,and8).

Ifyouhaveanyleftoveracid,youcanmakeitsafeforyoursepticsystembymixingmorealkalinesolutioninthe5-gal.bucketandcarefullypouringtheacidfromthesprayunitintothebucketuntilallofthefizzingstops.

Useawet/dryvacuumtocleanupthemess.Somesittingacidsandcleaningsolutionscanharmlocalvegetation,damageyourdrainagesystem,andarejustplainenvironmentallyunfriendly.Checkyourlocaldisposalregulationsforproperdisposaloftheneutralizedspentacid.

Tocheckforresidue,rubadarkclothoverasmallareaofconcrete.Ifanywhiteresidueappears,continuetherinsingprocess.Checkforresidueagain.

Lettheconcretedryforatleast24hoursandsweepupdust,dirt,andparticlesleftoverfromtheacidetchingprocess.Yourconcreteshouldnowhavetheconsistencyof120-gritsandpaperandbeabletoacceptconcretesealants.

HowtoStainaConcreteFloor

Thoroughlycleantheentirefloor(seepage81).Usepainter’stapeandplasticsheetingtoprotectanyareasthatwon’tbestained,aswellassurroundingwallsandothersurfaces.Testthesprayofyourgardensprayerusingwater:itshoulddeliverawide,evenmist.

Dampenthefloorwithwaterusingagardensprayer.Mopupanypooledwater,butmakesuretheentirefloorisdamp.Loadsprayerwithstain,andthenapplythestainevenlyinacircularmotionuntiltheconcreteissaturated.Letthefloordry.

Removetheetchingresiduebysoakingthefloorwithwaterandscrubbingvigorouslywithastiff-bristledbrush.Asyouwork,cleanuptheliquidwithawet/dryvacuum.Disposeofthewasteliquidsafely,accordingtolocalregulations.

Whenthefloorhasdriedcompletely(atleast18to24hours),beginapplyingthesealeralongtheedgesandinanyhard-to-reachareasusingapaintbrush.

Usinga3/8"naproller,applythesealerin2×6-ft.sections,maintainingawetedgetopreventlapmarks.Ifthesealerrapidlysinksintotheconcrete,applyasecondcoatafter2hours.Letthefloordryfor18to24hoursbeforeallowinglightfoottrafficand72hoursbeforeheavyuse.

HowtoPaintaConcreteFloor

Ifyouexpecttousemorethanonecontainerofpaint,openthemallandmixthemtogetherforauniformcolor.Youdonotneedtothinapaintforuseonafloor.Oneexceptionisifyouuseasprayerthatrequiresthinnedpaint.

Usinganylonbrush,suchasa2-1/2"sashbrush,cutinthesidesandcornerswithprimer.Thiscreatesasharp,cleanedge.Startthiswayforthetopcoataswell.

Usingarollerpadwiththenaplengthrecommendedbythemanufacturer,applyaprimercoattothesurface.Startatthecornerfarthestawayfromthedoor,andbackupasyouwork.Allowtheprimertodryforatleast8hours.

Withacleanrollerpad,applythefirsttopcoat.Makethetopcoatevenbutnottoothick,thenletitdryfor24hours.Ifyouchoosetoaddanothertopcoat,worktherollerinanotherdirectiontocoveranythinspots.Letthefinalcoatdryanotherdaybeforeyouwalkonit.

InstallingRadiantFloors

Floor-warming systems require very little energy torunandaredesignedtoheatceramictilefloorsonly;theygenerallyarenotusedassoleheatsourcesforrooms.A typical floor-warming system consists of one or

more thin mats containing electric resistance wires thatheatupwhenenergizedlikeanelectricblanket.Thematsareinstalledbeneaththetileandarehardwiredtoa120-voltGFCIcircuit.Athermostatcontrolsthetemperature,andatimerturnsthesystemoffautomatically.Thesystemshown in thisproject includes twoplastic

meshmats, eachwith its own power lead that is wireddirectlytothethermostat.Radiantmatsmaybeinstalledoveraplywoodsubfloor,but ifyouplan to install floortileyoushouldputdownabaseofcementboardfirst,andtheninstallthematsontopofthecementboard.A crucial part of installing this system is to use a

multimeter toperformseveralresistancechecks tomakesure the heating wires have not been damaged duringshippingorinstallation.Electricalservicerequiredforafloor-warmingsystem

is based on size. A smaller system may connect to anexisting GFCI circuit, but a larger one will need adedicated circuit; follow the manufacturer’srequirements.To order a floor-warming system, contact the

manufacturer or dealer (see Resources, page 252). Inmostcases,youcansend themplansand they’llcustomfitasystemforyourprojectarea.

Aradiantfloor-warmingsystememployselectricheatingmatsthatarecoveredwithfloortiletocreateafloorthat’scozyunderfoot.

InstallationTips

Afloor-warmingsystemrequiresadedicatedcircuittopowerandcontrolitsheatingmats,thermostat,andtimer.

•Eachradiantmatmusthaveadirectconnectiontothe power lead from the thermostat, with theconnection made in a junction box in the wallcavity.Donotinstallmatsinseries.

• Do not install radiant floor mats under showerareas.

•Donotoverlapmatsorletthemtouch.• Do not cut heating wire or damage heating wireinsulation.

• The distance between wires in adjoining matsshould equal the distance between wire loopsmeasuredcentertocenter.

TipsforInstallingaRadiantFloor-WarmingSystem

Floor-warmingsystemsmustbeinstalledonacircuitwithadequateamperageandaGFCIbreaker.Smallersystemsmaytieintoanexistingcircuit,butlargeronesneedadedicatedcircuit.Followlocalbuildingandelectricalcodesthatapplytoyourproject.

Anelectricwirefaultindicatormonitorseachfloormatforcontinuityduringtheinstallationprocess.Ifthereisabreakincontinuity(forexample,ifawireiscut)analarmsounds.Ifyouchoosenottouseaninstallationtooltomonitorthemat,testforcontinuityfrequentlyusingamultimeter.

HowToInstallaRadiantFloor-WarmingSystem

Installanelectricalboxtohousethethermostatandtimer.Inmostcases,theboxshouldbelocated60"abovefloorlevel.Usea4"-deep×4"-widedouble-gangboxforthethermostat/timercontrolifyourkithasanintegralmodel.Ifyourtimerandthermostatareseparate,installaseparatesingleboxforthetimer.

Drillaccessholesinthesoleplateforthepowerleadsthatarepreattachedtothemats(theyshouldbeover10ft.long).Theleadsshouldbeconnectedtoasupplywirefromthethermostatinajunctionboxlocatedinawallnearthefloorandbelowthethermostatbox.Theaccessholeforeachmatshouldbelocateddirectlybeneaththeknockoutforthatcableinthethermostatbox.DrillthroughthesillplateverticallyandhorizontallysotheholesmeetinanL-shape.

Runconduitfromtheelectricalboxestothesillplate.Thelineforthesupplycableshouldbe3/4"conduit.Ifyouareinstallingmultiplemats,thesupplyconduitshouldfeedintoajunctionboxabout6"abovethesillplateandthencontinueintothe3/4"holeyoudrilledforthesupplyleads.Thesensorwireneedsonly1/2"conduitthatrunsstraightfromthethermostatboxviathethermostat.Thematsshouldbepoweredbyadedicated20-ampGFCIcircuitof12/2NMcablerunfromyourmainservicepaneltotheelectricalbox(thisisfor120-voltmats—checkyourinstructionmanualforspecificcircuitrecommendations).

Cleanthefloorsurfacethoroughlytogetridofanydebristhatcouldpotentiallydamagethewiremats.Avacuumcleanergenerallydoesamoreeffectivejobthanabroom.

Testforresistanceusingamultimetersettomeasureohms.Thisisatestyoushouldmakefrequentlyduringtheinstallation,alongwithcheckingforcontinuity.Iftheresistanceisoffbymorethan10%fromthetheoreticalresistancelisting(seemanufacturer’schartininstallationinstructions),contactatechnicalsupportoperatorforthekitmanufacturer.Forexample,thetheoreticalresistanceforthe1×50-ft.matseenhereis19,sotheohmsreadingshouldbebetween17and21.

Finalizeyourmatlayoutplan.Mostradiantfloorwarmingmatmanufacturerswillprovidealayoutplanforyouatthetimeofpurchase,ortheywillgiveyouaccesstoanonlinedesigntoolsoyoucancomeupwithyourownplan.Thisisanimportantsteptothesuccessofyourproject,andtheassistanceisfree.

Unrolltheradiantmatormatsandallowthemtosettle.Arrangethematormatsaccordingtotheplanyoucreated.It’sokaytocuttheplasticmeshsoyoucanmakecurvesorswitchbacks,butdonotcuttheheatingwireunderanycircumstances,eventoshortenit.

Finalizethematlayoutandthentesttheresistanceagainusingamultimeter.Alsocheckforcontinuityinseveraldifferentspots.Ifthereisaproblemwithanyofthemats,youshouldidentifyitandcorrectitbeforeproceedingwiththemortarinstallation.

Runthethermostatsensorwirefromtheelectricalboxdownthe1/2"conduitracewayandouttheaccessholeinthesillplate.Selectthebestlocationforthethermostatsensorandmarkthelocationontheflooring.Alsomarkthelocationsofthewiresthatconnecttoandleadfromthesensor.

Variation:Ifyourlocalcodesrequireit,rollthematsoutofthewayandcutachannelforthesensorandthesensorwiresintothefloororfloorunderlayment.Formostfloormaterials,aspiralcuttingtooldoesaquickandneatjobofthistask.Removeanydebris.

Bondthematstothefloor.Ifthematsinyoursystemhaveadhesivestrips,peelofftheadhesivebackingandrolloutthematsinthecorrectposition,pressingthemagainstthefloortosettheadhesive.Ifyourmatshavenoadhesive,bindthemwithstripsofdouble-sidedcarpettape.Thethermostatsensorandthepowersupplyleadsshouldbeattachedwithhotglue(inset)andrunupintotheirrespectiveholesinthesillplateifyouhavenotdonethisalready.Testallmatsforresistanceandcontinuity.

Coverthefloorinstallationareaswithalayerofthinsetmortarthatisthickenoughtofullyencapsulateallthewiresandmats(usuallyaround1/4"inthickness).Checkthewiresforcontinuityandresistanceregularlyandstopworkingimmediatelyifthereisadropinresistanceorafailureofcontinuity.Allowthemortartodryovernight.

ConnectthepowersupplyleadsfromthematormatstotheNMcablecomingfromthethermostatinsidethejunctionboxnearthesill.Powermustbeturnedoff.Thepowerleadsshouldbecutsoabout8"ofwirefeedsintothebox.Besuretousecableclampstoprotectthewires.

Connectthesensorwireandthepowersupplylead(fromthejunctionbox)tothethermostat/timeraccordingtothemanufacturer’sdirections.Attachthedevicetotheelectricalbox,restorepower,andtestthesystemtomakesureitworks.Onceyouareconvincedthatitisoperatingproperly,installfloortilesandrepairthewallsurfaces.

LayingTileFloors

Settingtileorflagstoneonaconcretefloorisasimpleproject.Itssuccessdependsonproperpreparationoftheconcrete,agoodlayout,andattentiontodetailduringthesetting process. It’s important to fill dips, cracks, andholesintheconcretewithconcretepatchorfloorlevelerbefore setting tile. If the surface is too uneven, the tilewillcrackwhenexposedtothepressureoffoottraffic.Choose tile or stonewith enough texture tobe a safe

surface despite the moist conditions of a cellar. Afteryou’vechosenthetileorstone,askyourretailerabouttheappropriatemortarandgroutforyourapplication.Before establishing reference lines for your project,

thinkaboutwhere tostart tiling.Thegoal is tocontinueworkingwithouthavingtosteponpreviouslylaidtile.2× 4 with carpeting Sponge Rubber mallet Paint rollerChalklineFramingsquare

Ceramic,porcelain,orstonetileisimpervioustowaterandthereforemakesanexcellentflooringchoiceforbasements.Seepage75forsuggestionsonfloorpreparation.

ToolTip

Irregularcutscanbemadebyscoringwithahandheldtilecutter(leftphoto),andthentheycanbefinishedwithtilenippers(rightphoto).

HowtoInstallTileonaBasementFloor

Scrubthefloorwithasolutionoftrisodiumphosphate(TSP)andwater,letitdrycompletely,andthencheckthecleanconcreteforcracks,holes,andotherdamage.Fillcracksandholeswithconcretepatchingcompound(seepages70to71).Applyconcretesealertotheclean,patched,anddryconcrete.Useapaintbrushfortheedgesandthecornersandapaintrollerfortheremainingareas.

Positionareferenceline(X)bymeasuringbetweenoppositesidesoftheroomandmarkingthecenterofeachside.Snapachalklinebetweenthesemarks.Measureandmarkthecenterpointofthechalkline.Fromthispoint,useaframingsquaretoestablishasecondlineperpendiculartothefirst.Snapasecondreferenceline(Y)acrosstheroom.

Testthelayoutbydry-settingoneverticalandonehorizontalrowoftileallthewaytothewallsinbothdirections.Ifthelayoutresultsinunevenorawkwardcutsattheedges,adjustthereferencelinestoproduceabetterlayout.

Mixabatchofthinsetmortar,followingthemanufacturer’sdirections.Spreadmortarevenlyagainstbothreferencelinesofonequadrant.Usea1/4"-notchedsquaretroweltocreatefurrowsinthemortarbed.

Setthefirsttileinthecornerofthequadrantwherethereferencelinesintersect.Whensettingtilesthatare8"orlarger,twisteachtileslightlyasyousetitintoposition.

Usingasoftrubbermallet,gentlyrapthecentralareaofeachtileafewtimestosetitevenlyintothemortar.Ifthetileisnotself-spacing,insertspacersatthecornersofthetile.

Settilesintothemortaralongthereferencelines.Coverastraight2×4witholdcarpetingandlayitacrossseveraltiles.Rapitwithamallet.Laytileintheremainingareathathasbeencoveredwithmortar.Workinsmallsectionsuntilyoureachthewalls.Cuttilesasneededusingawetsaw(seephotoright).

Applymortardirectlytothebacksofsmallercuttiles,insteadofthefloor,usingthenotchededgeofthetroweltofurrowthemortar.Setthetiles.

Chooseasandedgroutcolorthatcomplementsyourtile.Mixasmallbatchofgroutfollowingthemanufacturer’sdirections.Forunglazedorstonetile,addareleaseagenttokeepthegroutfrombondingtothetile.Tip:Darkgroutdoesn’tshowdirtbutcontrastswithlightertile.Lightgroutistoughtokeeplookingclean.Amidtonegrayisoftenanexcellentgroutcolor.

Startinginacorner,pourthegroutoverthetile.Spreadthegroutoutwardfromthecorner,pressingfirmlyonthegroutfloattocompletelyfillthejoints.Tiltthegroutfloatata60°angletotheflooranduseafigure-eightmotion.

Usethegroutfloattoremoveexcessgroutfromthesurfaceofthetile.Wipediagonallyacrossthejoints,holdingthefloatinanearlyverticalposition.Continueapplyinggroutandwipingoffexcessuntilabout25sqft.ofthefloorhasbeengrouted.

Removeexcessgroutbywipingadampspongediagonallyoverabout2sqft.ofthetileatatime.Rinsethespongeincoolwaterbetweenwipes.Wipeeachareaonlyonce.Continuethisprocessuntilyou’vegroutedallthejoints.Allowthegrouttodryforabout4hours,thenuseasoftclothtobuffthetilesurfaceandremoveanyremaininggroutfilm.

Afterthegrouthascuredcompletely(checkmanufacturer’sinstructions),applygroutsealertothegroutlinesusingasmallspongebrush.Don’tbrushsealerontothetilesurfaces,andwipeupanyexcesssealerimmediately.

InstallingLaminatePlankFloors

Laminate flooringcomes ina floatingsystem that issimpletoinstall,evenifyouhavelittleexperience.Youmay install a floating laminate floor right on top ofplywoodor a concrete slab, or over sheet vinyl or evenhardwood flooring. Just be sure to follow themanufacturer’sinstructions.The pieces are available in planks or squares in a

variety of different sizes, colors, and faux finishes—includingwoodandceramic.Thepartyouseeisreallyaphotographicprint.Tongue-and-grooveedgeslockpiecestogether,andtheentirefloorfloatsontheunderlayment.At the end of this project there are a few extra steps totake if your flooring manufacturer recommends usingglueonthejoints.Therichwoodtonesofbeautifullaminateplanksmay

cause you to imagine hours of long, hard installationwork,butthisisaDIYprojectthatyoucandoinasingleweekend. Buy the manufactured planks at a home-improvement or flooring store and install laminateflooringwith the step-by-step instructionsoffered in thefollowingpages.

Laminatestripflooringcanbeusedverysuccessfullyinbasements.Wheninstalledasafloatingflooroveranunderlaymentpad,itgoesinquicklyandisrelativelyinexpensive.Seepage75forsuggestionsonfloorpreparation.

HowtoInstallaFloatingLaminateFloor

Toinstalltheunderlayment,startinonecornerandunrolltheunderlaymenttotheoppositewall.Cuttheunderlaymenttofitusingautilityknifeorscissors.Overlapthesecondunderlaymentsheetaccordingtothemanufacturer’srecommendations,andsecurethepiecesinplacewithadhesivetape.

Workingfromtheleftcorneroftheroomtotheright,set1/2"wallspacersanddry-layplanks(tonguesidefacingthewall)againstthewall.Thespacersallowforexpansion.Ifyouareflooringaroommorethan26ft.longorwide,youneedtobuyappropriate-sizedexpansionjoints.Note:Somemanufacturerssuggestfacingthegroovesidetothewall.

Setanewplankright-sideupontopofthepreviouslylaidplank,flushwiththespaceragainstthewallattheendrun.Lineupaspeedsquarewiththebottomplankedgeandtracealine.That’sthecutlineforthefinalplankintherow.

Presspainter’stapealongthecutlineonthetopoftheplanktopreventchipswhencutting.Scorethelinedrawninstep3withautilityknife.Turntheplankoverandextendthepencillinetothebackside.

Clamptheboardfacedownonrigidfoaminsulationorplywoodtoaworktable.Thefoamreduceschipping.Clampaspeedsquareontopoftheplank,asthoughyouaregoingtodrawanotherlineparalleltothecutline—usethistoeyeyourstraightcut.Placethecircularsaw’sbladeonthewastesideoftheactualcutline.

Tocreateatightfitforthelastplankinthefirstrow,placeaspaceragainstthewallandwedgeoneendofadrawbarbetweenitandthelastplank.Taptheotherendofthedrawbarwitharubbermalletorhammer.Protectthelaminatesurfacewithathincloth.

Continuetolayrowsofflooring,makingsurethejointsarestaggered.Thispreventstheentirefloorfromrelyingonjustafewjoints,whichkeepstheplanksfromlifting.Staggeringalsostengthensthefloor,becausethejointsareshorterandmoreevenlydistributed.

Tofitthefinalrow,placetwoplanksontopofthelastcourse;slidethetopplankupagainstthewallspacer.Usethetopplanktodrawacutlinelengthwiseonthemiddleplank.CutthemiddleplanktosizeusingthesamemethodasinStep3,justacrossthegrain.Theverylastboardmustbecutlengthwiseandwidthwisetofit.

HowtoWorkAroundObstacles

Positionaplankendagainstthespacersonthewallnexttotheobstacle.Useapenciltomaketwomarksalongthelengthoftheplankindicatingthepointswheretheobstaclebeginsandends.

Oncetheplankissnappedintothepreviousrow,positiontheplankendagainsttheobstacle.Maketwomarkswithapencil,thistimeontheendoftheplanktoindicatewheretheobstaclefallsalongthewidthoftheboard.

Useaspeedsquaretoextendthefourlines.Thespaceatwhichtheyintersectisthepartoftheplankthatneedstoberemovedtomakeroomfortheobstacletogothroughit.UseadrillwithaForstnerbit,oraholesawthesamediameterasthespacewithintheintersectinglines,anddrillthroughtheplankattheX.You’llbeleftwithahole;extendthecuttotheedgeswithajigsaw.

Installtheplankbylockingthetongue-and-groovejointswiththeprecedingboard.Fittheendpieceinbehindthepipeorobstacle.Applymanufacturer-recommendedgluetothecutedges,andpresstheendpiecetightlyagainsttheadjacentplank.Wipeawayexcessgluewithadampcloth.

LayingResilientTileFloors

As with any tile installation, resilient tile requirescarefully positioned layout lines. Before committing toanylayoutandapplyingtile,conductadryruntoidentifypotentialproblems.Keep in mind the difference between reference lines

(see opposite page) and layout lines. Reference linesmarkthecenteroftheroomanddivideitintoquadrants.Ifthetilesdon’tlayoutsymmetricallyalongtheselines,you’llneedtoadjustthemslightly,creatinglayoutlines.Once layout lines are established, installing the tile is afairlyquickprocess.Be sure to keep joints between thetilestightandlaythetilessquare.Tileswithanobviousgrainpatterncanbe laidso the

grain of each tile is oriented identically throughout theinstallation.Youcanalsousethequarter-turnmethod,inwhich each tile has its pattern grain runningperpendiculartothatofadjacenttiles.Whichevermethodyou choose, be sure to be consistent throughout theproject.

Resilienttileshaveapatternlayerthatisbondedtoavinylbaseandcoatedwithatransparentwearlayer.Somecomewithadhesivepre-appliedandcoveredbyapaperbacking,othershavedrybacksandaredesignedtobesetintoflooringadhesive.

Checkfornoticeabledirectionalfeatures,likethegrainofthevinylparticles.Youcansetthetilesinarunningpatternsothedirectionalfeaturerunsinthesamedirection,orinacheckerboardpatternusingthequarter-turnmethod.

HowtoMakeReferenceLinesforTileInstallation

Positionareferenceline(X)bymeasuringalongoppositesidesoftheroomandmarkingthecenterofeachside.Snapachalklinebetweenthesemarks.

Measureandmarkthecenterpointofthechalkline.Fromthispoint,useaframingsquaretoestablishasecondreferencelineperpendiculartothefirstone.Snapthesecondline(Y)acrosstheroom.

Checkthereferencelinesforsquarenessusingthe3-4-5trianglemethod.MeasurealongreferencelineXandmakeamark3ft.fromthecenterpoint.MeasurefromthecenterpointalongreferencelineYandmakeamarkat4ft.

Measurethedistancebetweenthemarks.Ifthereferencelinesareperpendicular,thedistancewillmeasureexactly5ft.Ifnot,adjustthereferencelinesuntilthey’reexactlyperpendiculartoeachother.

HowtoInstallDry-backedResilientTile

Snapperpendicularreferencelineswithachalkline(seepage101).Dry-fittilesalonglayoutlineYsoajointfallsalongreferencelineX.Ifnecessary,shiftthelayouttomakethelayoutsymmetricalortoreducethenumberoftilesthatneedtobecut.

Ifyoushiftthetilelayout,createanewlinethatisparalleltoreferencelineXandrunsthroughatilejointnearlineX.Thenewline,X1,isthelineyou’llusewheninstallingthetile.Useadifferentcoloredchalktodistinguishbetweenlines.

Dry-fittilesalongthenewline,X1.Ifnecessary,adjustthelayoutlineasinsteps1and2.

IfyouadjustedthelayoutalongX1,measureandmakeanewlayoutline,Y1,that’sparalleltoreferencelineYandrunsthroughatilejoint.Y1willformthesecondlayoutlineyou’lluseduringinstallation.

Applyadhesivearoundtheintersectionofthelayoutlinesusingatrowelwith1/16"V-shapednotches.Holdthetrowelata45°angleandspreadadhesiveevenlyoverthesurface.

Spreadadhesiveovermostoftheinstallationarea,coveringthreequadrants.Allowtheadhesivetosetaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions,thenbegintoinstallthetileattheintersectionofthelayoutlines.Youcankneeloninstalledtilestolayadditionaltiles.

Whenthefirstthreequadrantsarecompletelytiled,spreadadhesiveovertheremainingquadrant,thenfinishsettingthetile.

Tocuttilestofitalongthewalls,placethetiletobecut(A)faceupontopofthelastfulltileyouinstalled.Positiona1/8"-thickspaceragainstthewall,thensetamarkertile(B)ontopofthetiletobecut.Tracealongtheedgeofthemarkertiletodrawacuttingline.

MarkingCorners

To mark tiles for cutting around outside corners,makeacardboardtemplatetomatchthespace,keepinga1/8" gap along the walls. After cutting the template,checktomakesureitfits.Placethetemplateonatileandtraceitsoutline.

Cuttiletofitusingautilityknifeandstraightedge.Holdthestraightedgesecurelyagainstthecuttinglinetoensureastraightcut.Option:Youcanuseaceramic-tilecuttertomakestraightcutsinthickvinyltiles(seeinset).

Installcuttilesnexttothewalls.Ifyou’reprecuttingalltilesbeforeinstallingthem,measurethedistancebetweenthewallandthelastrowoftiles.Installtilesatvariouspointsincasethedistancechanges.

Continueinstallingtileintheremainingquadrantsuntiltheroomiscompletelycovered.Checktheentirefloor.Ifyoufindlooseareas,pressdownonthetilestobondthemtotheunderlayment.Installmetalthresholdbarsatroomborderswherethenewfloorjoinsanotherfloorcovering.

Variation:Self-adhesiveResilientTile

Onceyourreferencelinesareestablished(seepage101),peeloffthepaperbackingandinstallthefirsttileinoneofthecornersformedbytheintersectinglayoutlines.Laythreeormoretilesalongeachlayoutlinesinthequadrant.Rubtheentiresurfaceofeachtiletobondtheadhesivetothefloorunderlayment.

Begininstallingtilesintheinteriorareaofthequadrant.Keepthejointstightbetweentiles..

Finishsettingfulltilesinthefirstquadrant,thensetthefulltilesinanadjacentquadrant.Setthetilesalongthelayoutlinesfirst,thenfillintheinteriortiles.

Continueinstallingthetileintheremainingquadrantsuntiltheroomiscompletelycovered.Checktheentirefloor.Ifyoufindlooseareas,pressdownonthetilestobondthemtotheunderlayment.Installmetalthresholdbarsatroomborderswherethenewfloorjoinsanotherfloorcovering.

InstallingRubberRollFloors

Onceamarkofrestaurantsandretailers,sheetrubberflooringhasbecomeanoption for homeowners aswell.It’s resilient, durable, and stable, holding upwell underthe heaviest and most demanding use. Better still, it’scomfortabletowalkonandeasytomaintain.Thedurabilityandresilienceofrubberprovidebenefits

intwoways.First,theflooringtakesjustaboutanykindofusewithoutshowingdamage.Second,itabsorbsshockinproportiontoits thickness.Heavierrubberfloorshelpprevent fatigue, making them comfortable for standing,walking,andevenstrenuousexercise.Many new flooring products aremade from recycled

rubber, which saves landfill space and reduces theconsumption of new rawmaterials. This is one place apetroleum-basedproductisenvironmentallyfriendly.To install rubber sheet flooring on top of wood, use

onlyexterior-gradeplywood,onesidesanded.Donotuselauan plywood, particleboard, chipboard, or hardboard.Make sure the surface is level, smooth, and securelyfastenedtothesubfloor.

Rubberrollflooringresistswaterdamage,providescushionunderfootandhasawarmfeeling.

HowtoInstallRubberRollFlooring

Markthefirststripofrubberrollflooringforcuttingtolength.Startonthelongestwall,andmarkthecuttinglinesothestripwillbeacoupleofinchestoolong.Useastraightedgeguidetomarkthecuttinglines,andthencutwithasharputilityknife(besuretoputabackerboardunderthematerialbeforecuttingit).

Setthefirststripagainstthelongwallsotheoverageinlengthisequalateachend.Cutthenextstriptolengthandthenbuttitupagainstthefirststrip.Adjustthesecondstripsoitoverlapsthefirststripby1to1-1/2inches,makingsurethestripsremainparallel.Layoutallofthestripsintheroominthismanner.

Cutthestripstocreateperfectlymatchedseams.Withabackerboardunderneaththeseam,centerastraightedgeonthetopstripandcarefullycutthroughbothstripsintheoverlaparea.Changeutilityknifebladesfrequently,anddon’ttrytomakethecutinonepassunlessyourflooringisverythin.

Removethewastematerialfromtheseamareaandtestthefitofthestrips.Becausetheywerecuttogether,theyshouldalignperfectly.Makesureyoudon’tadjustthepositionofoneofthestripsortheseamsmaynotalignproperly.

Foldbackonehalfofthefirststripsohalfoftheflooringsubbaseisexposed.Again,takecarenottoshiftthepositionoftheflooringstrip.

Applytheadhesiverecommendedbytheflooringmanufacturertotheexposedfloor,usinganotchedtrowel.Avoidgettingadhesiveonthesurfaceoftheflooring,andmakesuretheadhesiveisappliedallthewayuptothewallsandjustpasttheseamarea.

Lowertherollslowlyontotheadhesive,makingsurenottoallowanyairtobecometrappedunderneath.Neverleaveadhesiveridgesorpuddles;theywillbecomevisibleonthesurface.

Rollthefloorimmediatelywitha100-poundrollertosqueezeoutanytrappedairandmaximizecontactbetweentherollandtheadhesive.Witheachpassoftheroller,overlapthepreviouspassbyhalf.Rollthewidthfirst,thenthelength,andre-rollafter30minutes.

Foldbackthesecondhalfofthefirstrollandthefirsthalfofthesecondroll.Applyandspreadtheadhesiveasbefore.Spreadtheadhesiveata90°angletotheseams.Thiswillreducethechanceofhavingadhesivesqueezeupthroughtheseams.Continueinstallingstripsinthismanner.

Cleanupadhesivesqueezeoutorspillsimmediatelyusingaragandmineralspirits.Atseams,takecarenottoallowmineralspiritstogetunderneaththeflooring,asitwillruintheadhesive.

Pressdownonanybubblesoronseamsthatdonothaveaseamlessappearance.Ifaseamresistslyingflat,setaboardandweightsoveritovernight.Itisagoodideatohand-rollallseamswithaJ-roller,inadditiontorollingtheentirefloorwithafloorroller.

Trimoffexcessflooringattheendsusingautilityknife.Leavingaslightgapbetweentheflooringandthewallisfineaslongasyouplantoinstallbasemolding.

LayingCarpet

Carpetremainsoneofthemostpopularandversatileof all floor coverings. Almost every home has wall-to-wall carpet in at least a few rooms. It’s available in analmost endless variety of colors, styles, and patterns. Itcan also be custom made to express a more personaldesign.Mostcarpet isnylonbased,althoughacrylicandpolyesterarealsopopular.Woolcarpetingismoreformaland more expensive but also quite popular. All aresuitableforabasementinstallation,butavoidcarpetwithathickpile.Partofcarpet’sappeal is its soft texture. It’spleasant

towalkon—especiallywithbarefeet,sinceit’ssoftandwarm underfoot—and comfortable for children to playon. It is agreatway towarmupa coldbasement floor.Because carpet has a pad underneath that acts as acushion,carpetcanhelpreduce“floorfatigue.”Wall-to-wall carpet is usually installed with a pad

beneathit,althoughsomeissoldwithapreattachedfoampad.Carpetwithapreattachedpad tends tobeof lesserquality,butsomepreferitforbasementsbecauseitdoesnot require stretching and tacking so it can be removedquicklyifneedbeandreinstalledwithlittledifficulty.Ifyouareinstallingacarpetpad,chooseonethatismadeofwaffle-pattern rubber rather than one that is fiber-based(thelessabsorbentthepadis,thebetter).

Carpetdoeshavesomedisadvantagesinbasements,butforwarmingupandsofteningacoldconcretefloor,itisthebestgameintown.Thismakesitaverypopularbasementflooringoption.

Buying&EstimatingCarpet

Whenchoosingcarpet,onethingtoconsideriscolorand pattern. Lighter shades and colors show dirt andstainsmore readily, but they provide an open, spaciousfeel.Darkercolorsandmulticoloredpatternsdon’tshowas much dirt or wear, but they can also make a roomappearsmaller.Thematerialsusedinacarpetanditsconstructioncan

affectthecarpet’sdurability.Inhigh-trafficareas,suchashallways and entryways, a top-quality fiber will lastlonger.Carpet construction, theway inwhich fibers areattached to the backing, impacts resistance towear andappearance.Available widths of certain carpets may affect your

buying decision; a roll that’s wide enough to cover anentire room eliminates the need for seaming. Whenseamingisunavoidable,calculatethetotalsquarefootagetobecovered,thenadd20percenttocovertrimmingandseaming.The type of carpet will dictate the type of pad you

should use. Check carpet sample labels for themanufacturer’s recommendations. Since carpet andpadding work in tandem to create a floor coveringsystem,use thebestpadyoucanafford thatworkswithyourcarpet.Inadditiontomakingyourcarpetfeelmoreplush underfoot, the pad makes your floor quieter and

warmer. A high-quality pad also helps reduce carpetwear.

TipsforEvaluatingCarpet

Labelsonthebackofsamplesusuallytellyouthefibercomposition,theavailablewidths(usually12or15feet),whatantistaintreatmentsandotherfinisheswereapplied,anddetailsoftheproductwarranty.

PlanningforCarpetInstallation

Keeppiledirectionconsistent.Carpetpileisusuallyslanted,whichaffectshowthecarpetlooksfromdifferentanglesaslightreflectsoffthesurface.Placeseamedpiecessothepilefacesthesamedirection.

Maintainpatternswhenseamingpatternedcarpet.Becauseofthisnecessity,there’salwaysmorewastewheninstallingpatternedcarpet.Forapatternthatrepeatsitselfevery18",forexample,eachpiecemustbeoversized18"toensurethepatternisaligned.Patternrepeatmeasurementsarenotedoncarpetsamples.

Atseams,addanextra3"toeachpiecewhenestimatingtheamountofcarpetyou’llneed.Thisextramaterialhelpswhencuttingstraightedgesforseaming.

Add6"foreachedgethat’salongthewall.Thissurpluswillbetrimmedawaywhenthecarpetiscuttotheexactsizeoftheroom.

Measurefromtheclosetwalltotheclosetdoor.Closetfloorsareusuallycoveredwithaseparatepieceofcarpetthat’sseamedtothecarpetinthemainroomarea.

HowtoInstallCarpet

Startinginacorner,nailtacklessstripstothefloor,keepingagapbetweenthestripsandthewallsthat’sabout2/3thethicknessofthecarpet.Useplywoodspacers.Angledpinsonthestripshouldpointtowardthewall.

Variation:Useextrawidetacklessstripsandmasonryanchorsifinstallingcarpetdirectlytoaconcretefloorwithoutunderlayment.Typicallythismethodisnotrecommendedunlessyourbasementfloorisexceptionallydryandwellsealed.

Rolloutenoughpaddingtocovertheentirefloor.Makesuretheseamsbetweenthepaddingaretight.Ifonefaceofthepaddinghasaslickersurface,keeptheslicksurfacefaceup,makingiteasiertoslidethecarpetoverthepadduringinstallation.

Useautilityknifetocutawayexcesspaddingalongtheedges.Thepaddingshouldtouchbutnotoverlapthetacklessstrips.

Tapetheseamstogetherwithducttape,thenstaplethepaddingtothefloorevery12".

Variation:Tofastenpaddingtoaconcretefloor,applydouble-sidedtapenexttothetacklessstrips,alongtheseams,andinanXpatternacrossthefloor.

Positionthecarpetrollagainstonewall,withitslooseendextendingupthewallabout6",thenrolloutthecarpetuntilitreachestheoppositewall.

Attheoppositewall,markthebackofthecarpetateachedgeabout6"beyondthepointwherethecarpettouchesthewall.Pullthecarpetbackawayfromthewallsothemarksarevisible.

Snapachalklineacrossthebackofthecarpetbetweenthemarks.Placeascrappieceofplywoodunderthecuttingareatoprotectthecarpetandpaddingfromtheknifeblade.Cutalongthelineusingastraightedgeandutilityknife.

Nexttowalls,straddletheedgeofthecarpetandnudgeitwithyourfootuntilitextendsupthewallbyabout6"andisparalleltothewall.

Atthecorners,relievebucklingbyslittingthecarpetwithautilityknife,allowingthecarpettoliesomewhatflat.Makesurethatcornercutsdonotcutintousablecarpet.

Usingyourseamingplanasaguide,measureandcutfill-inpiecesofcarpettocompletetheinstallation.Besuretoincludea6"surplusateachwallanda3"surplusoneachedgethatwillbeseamedtoanotherpieceofcarpet.Setthecutpiecesinplace,makingsurethepilefacesinthesamedirectiononallpieces.

Rollbackthelargepieceofcarpetonthesidetobeseamed,thenuseachalklinetosnapastraightseamedgeabout2"fromthefactoryedge.Keeptheendsofthelineabout18"fromthesidesofthecarpetwheretheoverlapontothewallscausesthecarpettobuckle.

Usingastraightedgeandutilityknife,carefullycutthecarpetalongthechalkline.Toextendthecuttinglinestotheedgesofthecarpet,pullthecornersbackatananglesotheylieflat,thencutthelinewiththestraightedgeandutilityknife.Placescrapwoodunderthecuttingareatoprotectthecarpetwhilecutting.

Onsmallercarpetpieces,cutstraightseamedgeswherethesmallpieceswillbejoinedtooneanother.Don’tcuttheedgesthatwillbeseamedtothelargecarpetpieceuntilafterthesmallpiecesarejoinedtogether.

Plugintheseamironandsetitasidetoheatup,thenmeasureandcuthot-glueseamtapeforallseams.Beginbyjoiningthesmallfill-inpiecestoformonelargepiece.Centerthetapeundertheseamwiththeadhesivesidefacingup.

Settheironunderthecarpetatoneendofthetapeuntiltheadhesiveliquifies,usuallyabout30seconds.Workingin12"sections,slowlymovetheironalongthetape,lettingthecarpetfallontothehotadhesivebehindit.Setweightsattheendoftheseamtoholdthepiecesinplace.

Presstheedgesofthecarpettogetherintothemeltedadhesivebehindtheiron.Separatethepilewithyourfingerstomakesurenofibersarestuckintheglueandtheseamistight,thenplaceaweightedboardovertheseamtokeepitflatwhilethegluesets.

Continueseamingthefill-inpiecestogether.Whenthetapeadhesivehasdried,turntheseamedpieceoverandcutafreshseamedgeasdoneinstep7.Reheatandremoveabout1-1/2"oftapefromtheendofeachseamtokeepitfromoverlappingthetapeonthelargepiece.

Usehot-glueseamtapetojointheseamedpiecestothelargepieceofcarpet,repeatingsteps14through17.

Ifyou’relayingcarpetinacloset,cutafill-inpieceandjoinittothemaincarpetwithhot-glueseamtape.

Beforestretchingtheseamedcarpet,readthroughthisentiresectionandcreateastretchingsequencesimilartotheoneshownhere.Startbyfasteningthecarpetatadoorwaythresholdusingcarpettransitions.

Ifthedoorwayisclosetoacorner,usethekneekickertosecurethecarpettothetacklessstripsbetweenthedoorandthecorner.Alsosecureafewfeetofcarpetalongtheadjacentwall,workingtowardthecorner.

Useapowerstretchertostretchthecarpettowardthewalloppositethedoor.Bracethetailwithalengthof2×4placedacrossthedoorway.Leavingthetailinplaceandmovingonlythestretcherhead,continuestretchingandsecuringthecarpetalongthewall,workingtowardthenearestcornerin12to24"increments.

Asyoustretchthecarpet,secureitontothetacklessstripswithastairtoolandhammer.

Withthepowerstretcherstillextendedfromthedoorwaytotheoppositesideoftheroom,knee-kickthecarpetontothetacklessstripsalongtheclosestwall,startingnearthecornerclosesttothestretchertail.Disengageandmovethestretcheronlyifit’sintheway.

Repositionthestretchersoitstailisagainstthecenterofthewallyoujustsecured.Stretchandsecurethecarpetalongtheoppositewall,workingfromthecentertowardacorner.Ifthere’saclosetinanadjacentwall,worktowardthatwall,notthecloset.

Usethekneekickertostretchandsecurethecarpetinsidethecloset(ifany).Stretchandfastenthecarpetagainstthebackwallfirst,thendothesidewalls.Afterthecarpetintheclosetisstretchedandsecured,usethekneekickertosecurethecarpetalongthewallsnexttothecloset.Disengagethepowerstretcheronlyifit’sintheway.

Returntheheadofthepowerstretchertothecenterofthewall.Finishsecuringcarpetalongthiswall,workingtowardtheothercorneroftheroom.

Repositionthestretchertosecurethecarpetalongthelastwalloftheroom,workingfromthecentertowardthecorners.Thetailblockshouldbebracedagainsttheoppositewall.

Useacarpetedgetrimmertotrimsurpluscarpetawayfromthewalls.Atcorners,useautilityknifetofinishthecuts.

Tuckthetrimmededgesofthecarpetneatlyintothegapsbetweenthetacklessstripsandthewallsusingastairtoolandhammer.

Walls&Ceilings

Basement walls should be hard surfaced for easycleaning and built from materials that do not promotemold growth.Mostwallboardmanufacturers nowmakemold-resistant panels that cost only about 50 percentmorethanstandardwallboard.Itisaminimalinvestmentand very cheap insurance against air-quality problemsandothernegativeeffectsofmold.Basement ceilings should also be made using mold-

resistantmaterials.Thiscanincludewallboard,whichisaverycommonceilingmaterialusedthroughoutthehouse.Butevenacousticpanelsandsuspendedceilingsarenowavailablewith panels that don’t promotemold.Becauseof the frequent need for access to ductwork, plumbing,gas lines, and wiring in the basement ceiling joists,suspendedceilingswith their removablepanels areverypopularinbasementremodeling.Framing for basement walls can be standard 2×

lumber, but if you have hadmoisture problems in yourbasement,considerusingmetalstudsinstead.Anywoodframing members that are in contact with the concretefloor or concrete walls should be made from pressure-treatedlumber.Inthischapter:

Wall&CeilingOptionsFramingFurred-OutWalls

BuildingPartitionWallsFramingWallswithSteelStudsFramingSoffitsInstallingDrywallFinishingDrywallInstallingPanelingInstallingaSuspendedCeilingInstallinganAcousticTileCeiling

Wall&CeilingOptions

Framingwallsandceilingsisdoneinprettymuchthesame manner in basements as in the other parts of thehouse. Although not required, it is a good idea to usepressure-treatedlumbertomakethesoleplatesforwallsif they are resting directly on the concrete floor.Otherwise, not much is different. The choices forcovering framed walls are also much the same asanywhereelse.Ifcoveringyourwallswithwallboard,usenewer mold-resistant material in a damp basementenvironment. In general, avoid using materials thatencourage mold growth, especially on walls. Theseincludewallpapersandmostpanelingsheets.

Load-bearingwallscarrythestructuralweightofyourhome.Inplatform-framedhouses,load-bearingwallscanbeidentifiedbydoubletopplatesmadefromtwolayersofframinglumber.Load-bearingwallsincludeallexteriorwallsandanyinteriorwallsthatarealignedabovesupportbeams.

Nonloadbearingwallsareinteriorwallsthatdonotcarrythestructuralweightofthehouse.Theyhaveasingletopplateandcanbeperpendiculartothefloorandceilingjoistsbutarenotalignedabovesupportbeams.Anyinteriorwallthatisparalleltofloorandceilingjoistsisapartitionwall.

Moisture-andmold-resistantwallboardshouldbeusedtocoverbasementwallsandceilings.Someofthesenewproductsarepaperless,whicheliminatestheprimarysourceoffoodformoldandmildew.Standardwallboard(middle)isbestforupperlevelinstallations,althoughindrybasementsyoucanprobablyusitsafelyonceilings.Greenboardisstandardwallboardthathasamoisture-resistantvinylcoatingratherthanpaper.Oftenusedforshowerpanelbacker,itisabetterchoiceforwallsthanstandardmaterialbutmorelikelytodevelopmoldandmoistureproblemsthanpaperless.

WallTypes

Wallsbuiltagainstfoundationwallstypicallyareframedwithfurringstripstosupportthewallcoverings.Thistypeofwallistrickytoplanandhassomepotentialproblems.Readthesectiononinsulatingyourbasementforanimportantdiscussionoftheintricaciesofbuildingagainstafoundationwall(seepages128to129).

Partitionwallsdividelargespaces,suchasbasements,intosmallerlivingspaces.Theyareframedwithstandardconstructiongrade2×4sorwithmetalstuds.

Panelizedbasementwallsystemsfeatureremovablefabric-coveredpanelsthatareinstalledintracks.Alittlereminiscentofofficecubiclewalls,thepanelsprovidesomeinsulationvalueandaremoldandmoistureresistant.Theytypicallyareavailablethroughfranchiseinstallers.

CeilingTypes

Wallboardisaninexpensivecoveringforbasementceilings,butithasthelimitationofnotbeingeasilyremovedifyouneedaccesstoanyductworkorutilitiesintheceilingjoistcavities.

Suspendedceilingsandacoustictileceilingshavepanelsthatcanberemovedtocreateaccesstoelementsinthejoistcavities,buttheydolowertheceilingheightafewinches.Besuretoshopforpanelsthataremoldresistant.

Powder-ActuatedTools

Basementfloorsandwallsarealmostalwaysmadeofconcrete or concrete products, which can present somedifficulty when it comes time to attach walls. You canuse hardened masonry screws for fastening, but thatinvolveslotsoftediousdrillingandusuallyafewbrokenor stripped screw heads. An easier alternative is to usesmallchargesofgunpowdertodrivehardenednails intometalorconcretewithapowder-actuatednailgun.

Powder-actuated nailers look and work a bit like apile driver or handgun. A steel barrel holds speciallydesigned hardened nails called drive pins. The nails areequippedwith a plastic sleeve to keep themcentered inthe barrel. Driving force is delivered by a smallgunpowdercharge,calledapowerload,whichlookslikearifleshellwithacrimpedtip.Thepowerloadsfitintoamagazine behind the barrel on the tool. Squeezing thetool’s trigger, or hitting the end with a hammer(depending on the tool style), activates a firing pin thatignites the gunpowder. The expanding gasses drive apiston against the nail at great force. Powder-actuatednailers can drive only one fastener at a time, but somestyleswillholdaclipofmultiplepower loads for fasteroperation.

Power loads are made in a range of color-codedcaliberstosuitdifferentnailingapplicationsanddrivepinsizes. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendationscarefullytochoosethecorrectloadandfastenerforyourtask. Generally, the safest method is to start with thelowest energy load that will work for your nailingsituation and see if it’s sufficient to fullydrive thenail.Usethenextstrongerload,ifnecessary.

Powder-actuated nailers are easy to use for do-it-yourselfers and safe for indoor projects, provided youwear hearing and eye protection and follow allmanufacturer’s instructions.Most home centers sell thenailgunsandsupplies,oryoucanrentthesetools.

Powder-actuatednailersofferthequickestandeasiestmethodforfasteningframingtoblock,pouredconcrete,andsteel.

Powder-actuatednailguns(PATs)aredesignedintwostyles.Plungertypesareactivatedbyhittingtheendoftheshaftwithahammer,whiletriggerstylesfunctionlikeahandgun.Witheithertype,thebarrelmustbedepressedagainsttheworksurfacetoreleaseasafetybeforeadrivepincanbefired.

Powerloadscontainvariousamountsofgunpowderinsideacrimpedshell.Colorcodingensuresthatyou’reusingtherightamountofchargeforyourdrivepinsizeandthematerialsyou’refasteningtogether.Followthecolorchartscarefully,startingwithalow-powercharge.

PATsusehardenednails,calleddrivepins,inarangeofsizes.Aplasticfinnedsleevecentersthedrivepininthetoolbarrel.

HowtoUseaPAT

ToprepareaPATforuse,slideadrivepinintothebarrelfirst.Pushitinuntilthenailtipisflushwiththeendofthebarrel.Besurethere’snopowerloadinthemagazine.

Slidethemagazineopenandinsertapowerloadintothebarrel.Arimontheloadshellensuresthatitcanonlybeloadedoneway.Closethemagazine.

Presstheendofthebarrelfirmlyagainsttheworksurfacetoreleasethesafety.Squeezethetriggerorstriketheendofthetoolsharplywithahammertofirethedrivepin.Oncethepinisfired,slideopenthemagazinetoejectthespentloadshell.

DrivingNails

Occasionally, your first power load selectionwon’tcompletelysetthenail.Inthissituation,useahandmaultodriveitintherestoftheway.Chooseastrongerpowerloadfordrivingsubsequentfasteners.

FramingFurred-OutWalls

Wall framingmembers canbe attacheddirectly to aconcrete foundation wall to provide a support for wallcoverings and to house wires and pipes. Because theyhave no significant structural purpose, they are usuallymadewithsmallerstockcalledfurringstrips,whichcanbe2×2or2×3wood.Donot install furring strips inconjunctionwithavaporbarrierorinsulation,anddonotattachthemtowallsthatarenotdrywalls(seedefinition,page43)withinsulationontheexteriorside.

Furringstripsserveprimarilytocreatenailingsurfacesforwallboard.Attachthemtodrybasementwallsatweblocationsofblockwallwherepossible.

HowtoAttachFurringStripstoDryFoundationWalls

Cuta2×2topplatetospanthelengthofthewall.Markthefurring-striplayoutontothebottomedgeoftheplateusing16"-on-centerspacing.Attachtheplatetothebottomofthejoistswith2-1/2"wallboardscrews.Thebackedgeoftheplateshouldlineupwiththefrontoftheblocks.

Ifthejoistsrunparalleltothewall,you’llneedtoinstallbackersbetweentheouterjoistandthesillplatetoprovidesupportforceilingwallboard.MakeT-shapedbackersfromshort2×4sand2×2s.Installeachsothebottomfaceofthe2×4isflushwiththebottomedgeofthejoists.Attachthetopplatetothefoundationwallwithitstopedgeflushwiththetopoftheblocks.

Installabottomplatecutfrompressure-treated2×2lumbersotheplatespansthelengthofthewall.Applyconstructionadhesivetothebackandbottomoftheplate,thenattachittothefloorwithanailer.Useaplumbbobtotransferthefurring-striplayoutmarksfromthetopplatetothebottomplate.

Cut2×2furringstripstofitbetweenthetopandbottomplates.Applyconstructionadhesivetothebackofeachfurringstrip,andpositionitonthelayoutmarksontheplates.Nailalongthelengthofeachstripat16"intervals.

Option:Leaveachannelfortheinstallationofwiresorsupplypipesbyinstallingpairsofverticallyalignedfurringstripswitha2"gapbetweeneachpair.Note:Consultlocalcodestoensureproperinstallationofelectricalorplumbingmaterials.

IsolatetheWall

Itconsumesmorefloorspace,butagoodalternativetoafurred-outwallistobuilda2×4studwallparalleltothefoundationwall,but1/2"awayfromit.Thiseliminatesanycontactbetweenthewallframingmembersandthefoundationwall.Seepages130to132forinstructionsonbuildingapartitionwall.

BuildingPartitionWalls

Non-loadbearing,orpartition,wallsaretypicallybuiltwith2×4 lumberandare supportedbyceilingor floorjoists above or by blocking between the joists. Forbasement walls that sit on bare concrete, use pressure-treatedlumberforthebottomplates.This project showsyouhow to build awall in place,

ratherthanhowtobuildacompletewallonthefloorandtilt itupright,as innewconstruction.Thebuild-in-placemethod allows for variations in floor and ceiling levelsandisgenerallymucheasierforremodelingprojects.Ifyourwallwill includeadoororotheropening, see

pages134and135beforelayingoutthewall.Note:Afteryourwallsareframedandthemechanicalrough-insarecompleted,besuretoinstallmetalprotectorplateswherepipesandwiresrunthroughframingmembers.

Atypicalpartitionwallconsistsoftopandbottomplatesand2×4studsspaced16"oncentertop.Use2×6lumberforwallsthatwillholdlargeplumbingpipes.

VariationsforFasteningTopPlatestoJoists

Whenanewwallisperpendiculartotheceilingorfloorjoistsabove,attachthetopplatedirectlytothejoists,using16dnails.

Whenanewwallfallsbetweenparalleljoists,install2×4blockingbetweenthejoistsevery24".Ifthenewwallisalignedwithaparalleljoist,installblocksonbothsidesofthewall,andattachthetopplatetothejoist(inset).

HowtoBuildaPartitionWall

Markthelocationoftheleadingedgeofthenewwall’stopplate,thensnapachalklinethroughthemarksacrossthejoistsorblocks.Useaframingsquareortakemeasurementstomakesurethelineisperpendiculartoanyintersectingwalls.Cutthetopandbottomplatestolength.

Settheplatestogetherwiththeirendsflush.Measurefromtheendofoneplate,andmakemarksforthelocationofeachstud.Thefirststudshouldfall15-1/4“fromtheend;everystudthereaftershouldfall16"oncenter.Thus,thefirst4×8"ft.wallboardpanelwillcoverthefirststudand“break”inthecenterofthefourthstud.Useasquaretoextendthemarksacrossbothplates.DrawanXateachstudlocation.

Positionthetopplateagainstthejoists,aligningitsleadingedgewiththechalkline.Attachtheplatewithtwo16dnailsdrivenintoeachjoist.Startatoneendandadjusttheplateasyougotokeeptheleadingedgeflushwiththechalkline.

Topositionthebottomplate,hangaplumbbobfromthesideedgeofthetopplatesothepointnearlytouchesthefloor.Whenithangsmotionless,markthepoint’slocationonthefloor.Makeplumbmarkingsateachendofthetopplate,thensnapachalklinebetweenthemarks.Positionthebottomplatealongthechalklineandusetheplumbbobtoalignthestudmarkingsbetweenthetwoplates.

Fastenthebottomplatetothefloor.Onconcrete,useapowder-actuatednailerormasonryscrews,drivingapinorscrewevery16".Onwoodfloors,use16dnailsdrivenintothejoistsorsleepersbelow.

Measurebetweentheplatesforthelengthofeachstud.Cuteachstudsoitfitssnuglyinplacebutisnotsotightthatitbowsthejoistsabove.Ifyoucutastudtooshort,seeifitwillfitsomewhereelsedownthewall.

Installthestudsbytoenailingthemata60°anglethroughthesidesofthestudsandintotheplates.Ateachend,drivetwo8dnailsthroughonesideofthestudandonemorethroughthecenterontheotherside.

Option:Ifbuildingcodesinyourarearequirefireblocking,install2×cutoffscrapsbetweenthestuds4ft.fromthefloortoservethispurpose.Staggertheblockssoyoucanendnaileachpiece.

OptionsforFramingCorners

L-corners:Nail2×4spacers(A)totheinsideoftheendstud.Nailanextrastud(B)tothespacers.Theextrastudprovidesasurfacetoattachwallboardattheinsidecorner.

T-cornermeetsstud:Fasten2×2backers(A)toeachsideoftheside-wallstud(B).Thebackersprovideanailingsurfaceforwallboard.

T-cornerbetweenstuds:Fastena1×6backer(A)totheendstud(B)withwallboardscrews.Thebackerprovidesanailingsurfaceforwallboard.

HowtoBuildaSoundproofedPartitionWall

Framenewpartitionwallsusing2×6plates.Spacethestuds12"apart,staggeringthemsoalternatestudsarealignedwithoppositesidesoftheplates.Sealunderandabovetheplateswithacousticsealant.

WeaveR-11unfacedfiberglassblanketinsulationhorizontallybetweenthestuds.Covereachsidewithoneormorelayersof5/8"mold-resistantdrywall.

HowtoFrameDoorOpenings

Tomarkthelayoutforthestudsthatmakeupthedoorframe,measurethewidthofthedoorunitalongthebottom.Add1"tothisdimensiontocalculatethewidthoftheroughopening(thedistancebetweenthejackstuds).Thisgivesyoua1/2“gaponeachsideforadjustingthedoorframeduringinstallation.Markthetopandbottomplatesforthejackandkingstuds.

Afteryou’veinstalledthewallplates,cutthekingstudsandtoenailtheminplaceattheappropriatemarkings.

Measurethefulllengthofthedoorunit,thenadd1/2"todeterminetheheightoftheroughopening.Usingthatdimension,measureupfromthefloorandmarkthekingstuds.Cuta2×4headertofitbetweenthekingstuds.Positiontheheaderflat,withitsbottomfaceatthemarks,andsecureittothekingstudswith16dnails.

Cutandinstallacripplestudabovetheheadercenteredbetweenthekingstuds.Installanyadditionalcripplesrequiredtomaintainthe16"-on-centerlayoutofthestandardstudsintherestofthewall.

Cutthejackstudstofitsnuglyundertheheader.Fastentheminplacebynailingdownthroughtheheader,thendrive10dnailsthroughthefacesofthejackstudsandintothekingstuds

Option:Buildaheaderfromtwopiecesof2×4or2×6,sandwichingastripof1/2"plywood.Structuralheadersarerequiredinload-bearingwalls,butitisveryunlikelythatyou’llbecreatingnewload-bearingwallsinyourbasement.Still,ifyouareafanofoverbuilding,theheaderwillcreateasturdierwall.

Sawthroughthebottomplatesoit’sflushwiththeinsidefacesofthejackstuds.Removethecut-outportionoftheplate.Note:Ifthewallwillbefinishedwithwallboard,hangthedoorafterthewallboardisinstalled.

FramingWallswithSteelStuds

Steel framing is quickly becoming a popularalternativetowoodinresidentialconstructionduetotherisingcostofwoodand theadvantages that steeloffers.Steel framing is fireproof, insect proof, highly rotresistant, and lightweight. But the most significantadvantageisthatsteel,unlikelumber,isalwaysperfectlyuniformandstraight.Steel studs and tracks (or plates) are commonly

available at home centers and lumberyards in nominalwidths comparable to theirwooden counterparts: 1-5/8"(2×2),2-1/2"(2×3),3-5/8"(2×4),and5-1/2"(2×6).Although25-gauge(or18-mil)and20-gauge(or33-mil)steel framing is suitable for most non-load-bearingpartition walls and soffits that will be covered withwallboard,20-gaugeresultsinasomewhatsturdierwall.Use 20-gauge studs for walls that will receivecementboard.Withafewexceptions,thelayoutandframingmethods

usedforasteel-framepartitionwallarethesameasthoseused for a wood-frame wall. For more information onframing partition walls, see pages 130 to 133; for helpwithframingsoffits,seepages140to141.Hereareafewtipsforworkingwithsteel:• Steel framing is fastened together with screws, not

nails.Attachsteel trackstoexistingwoodframingusing

longdrywallscrews.• Even pressure and slow drill speedmake it easy to

startscrews.Drivethescrewsdowntight,butbecarefulnottostripthesteel.Don’tusedrill-pointscrewswith25-gaugesteel,whichcanstripeasily.• Most steel studs have punch-outs for running

plumbing and electrical lines through the framing. Cutthestudstolengthfromthesameendtokeepthepunch-outslinedup.•Thehand-cutedgesof steel framingarevery sharp;

wearheavygloveswhenhandlingthem.• To provide support for electrical receptacle boxes,

use boxeswith special bracing for steel studs, or fastenboxestowoodframinginstalledbetweenthestuds.•Use16"-widebattsforinsulatingbetweensteelstuds.

The added width allows for a friction fit, whereasstandardbattswouldslidedown.

Steelframing,whencoupledwithwallboard,createsarigidwallsystemassolidandstrongaswood-framedwalls.Steeltrackisusedtocreateplates,headers,andsills.Steelstudsareinstalledsotheopensidefacesinthesamedirection,exceptatdoor,window,orotheropenings.Thepunch-outsinstudsareforrunningutilitylinesthroughtheframing.

Steelstudsandtrackshavethesamebasicstructure—awebthatspanstwoflangesides—however,studsalsocontaina1/4"liptoimprovetheirrigidity.

Tools&Materials

Steel framing requires a few specialty tools andmaterials.Aviationsnips(A)areneededtocuttracksandstuds, though a miter saw outfitted with a steel-cuttingabrasive blade (B) can speed up the process. A drill orscrewgun (C) is required for fastening framing. Handyforlargeprojects,astudcrimper(D)createsmechanicaljointsbetweentracksandstuds.Plasticgrommets(E)areplaced in punch-outs to help protected gas and powerlines.Protective eyewear andheavyworkgloves (F,G)are necessities when working with hand-cut steelframing. Use self-tapping screws (inset) to fasten steelcomponents.Toinstallwoodtrim,useTypeStrimheadscrews(H);tofastenwallboard,TypeSwallboardscrews(I);andtofastenstudsandtrackstogether,7/16"TypeSpanheadscrews(J).

TipsforFramingwithSteel

When running metal plumbing pipe and electricalcablethroughsteelstuds,useplasticgrommetsatpunch-outs topreventgalvanicactionandelectrificationof thewall. Install wood blocking between studs for hangingdecorativeaccessoriesorwainscoting.

Framedooropenings3"widerand1-1/2"tallerthannormal,thenwraptheinsideswith2×4stoprovideanailingsurfaceforhangingthedoorandinstallingthecasing.

HowtoFrameWallswithSteelStuds

Markthewalllocationonthefloororceiling,followingthesameprocedureusedforawood-framewall.Cutthetopandbottomtrackstolengthwithaviationsnips.Cutthroughthesideflangesfirst,thenbendthewastepiecebackandcutacrosstheweb.Useamarkertolayoutthetrackswith16"on-centerspacing.

Fastenthebottomtracktothefloor.Forwoodfloors,use2"coarse-threaddrywallscrews.Forconcretefloors,pinthetrackdownwithapowder-actuatednailer(seepage127),oruse1-1/4"masonryscrew.Drillpilotholesforscrewsusingamasonrybit.Driveafastenerateachendofthetrack,thenevery24"inbetween.

Plumbupfromthebottomtrackwithaplumbbobtopositionthetoptrack.Fastenthetoptracktotheceilingjoistswith1-5/8"drywallscrews.Drivetwoscrewsateachjoistlocation.

Atthefirststudlocation,measurebetweenthetracksandcutastudtolength.Insertthestudintothetracksataslightangleandtwistintoplace.Note:Cutallsubsequentstudsfromthesameendsothepunch-outsalign.

ClampthestudflangetothetrackwithC-clamppliersanddrivea7/16"TypeSpanheadscrewthroughthetracksintothestud.Driveonescrewoneachsideatbothendsofthestud.Installremainingstudssotheopensidesfacethesamedirection(exceptatdoor-framestuds).

Toinstalladoorheader,cutthetrack8"longerthantheopening.Measurein4"ateachend,cuttheflangesatanangletowardthemark,thenbenddowntheendsat90°.Fastentheheaderinplacewiththreescrewsateachstud—twothroughthefasteningtabandonethroughtheoverlappingflange.

Toproviderunningblockingforcabinets,wainscoting,orotherfixtures,snapachalklineacrossthefaceofthestudsatthedesiredheight,holdatracklevelattheline,thennotchtheflangesofthetracktobypassthestuds.Fastenthetrackinplacewithtwoscrewsateachstudlocation.

BuildingMaterialsToxicity

Buildcornersusingaslipstud:Aslipstudisnotfasteneduntiltheadjacentdrywallisinplace.FormL-shapedcorners(A)byoverlappingthetracks.Cutofftheflangeononesideofonetrack,removingenoughtoallowroomfortheoverlappingtrackanddrywall.FormaT-shapedcorner(B)byleavingagapbetweenthetracksforthedrywall.Secureeachslipstudbyscrewingthroughthestudintothetracksoftheadjacentwall.Alsoscrewthroughthebacksideofthedrywallintotheslipstud,ifpossible.Wherethere’snobackingbehindtheslipstud,drivescrewsata45°anglethroughthebackcornersoftheslipstudandintothedrywall.

Joinsectionswithasplicedjoint(A)ornotchedjoint(B).Makeasplicedjointbycuttinga2"slitinthewebofonetrack.Sliptheothertrackintotheslitandsecurewithascrew.Foranotchedjointcutbacktheflangesofonetrackandtaperthewebsoitfitsintotheothertrack;securewithascrew.

FramingSoffits

Unfinished basements and other areas often containelements like beams, pipes, and ductwork that may bevitaltoyourhousebutbecomebigobstaclestofinishingthe space. When you can’t conceal the obstructionswithin walls, and you’ve determined it’s too costly tomove them, hide them inside a framed soffit or chase.Thiscanalsoprovideaplacetorunsmallermechanicals,likewiringandwatersupplylines.Youcanframeasoffitwithavarietyofmaterials.2×

2lumberand1-5/8"steelstuds.Bothworkwellincludingbecause they’re small and lightweight (though steel isusuallyeasiertoworkwithbecauseit’salwaysstraight).Forlargesoffitsthatwillhouselightingfixturesorotherelements,youmightwantthestrengthof2×4sorthreeand5/8"steelstuds.There may be code restrictions about the types of

mechanicals that can be grouped together, as well asminimum clearances between the framing and what itencloses.Mostcodesalsospecifythatsoffits,chases,andother framedstructureshave fireblockingevery ten feet.and at the intersections between soffits and neighboringwalls. Remember, too, that drain cleanouts and shutoffvalvesmustbeaccessible,soyou’llneedtoinstallaccesspanelsattheselocations.

Soffitswillrequireanaccesspaneliftheyhouseelectricaljunctionboxesorshutoffforwaterorgassupplylines.Youcanplantheseintoyourframingorcreatethemafterthewallcoveringisinstalled,asintheframedopeningabove.Here,awoodframeisgluedtothesoffittocreatesupportledgesfortheremovablewallboardcutout.

Asoffitisabump-outthatdropsdownfromtheceilingtoconcealductwork,recessedlightfixturesandotherobstructions.

VariationsforBuildingSoffits

2×2soffit:Buildtwoladder-likeframesforthesoffitsidesusingstandard2×2s.Installbracesevery16or24"toprovidenailingsupportfortheedgesofthedrywall.Attachthesideframestothejoistsoneithersideoftheobstructionusingnailsorscrews.Then,installcrosspiecesbeneaththeobstacle,tyingthetwosidestogether.

Simplesteel-framesoffit:With1/2"drywall,thisconstructionworksforsoffitsupto16"wide;with5/8"drywall,upto24"wide.Use1-5/8,2-1/2,or3-5/8"steelstudsandtracks(seepages136to139).Fastenatracktotheceilingandastudtotheadjoiningwallusingdrywallscrews.Cutastripofdrywalltoformthesideofthesoffit,andattachasteelstudflushwiththebottomedgeofthestripusingTypeSscrews.Attachtheassemblytotheceilingtrack,thencutandinstalldrywallpanelstoformthesoffitbottom.

Steel-framesoffitwithbraces:Use1-5/8,2-1/2,or3-5/8"steelstudsandtracks.Fastenatracktotheceilingandwallwithdrywallscrews.Cutstudstoformthesideandbottomofthesoffit,fastenthemtothetracksevery16or24"on-center,usingTypeSpanheadscrews,thenjointhepieceswithmetalangle(youcanuseasteeltrackcutinhalflengthwise).Useastringlineandlockingclampstohelpkeeptheframestraightandsquareduringconstruction.

InstallingDrywall

Drywall is inexpensive, perfectly uniform, and easyto install,making it thebest choice fordo-it-yourselfersworkingonremodelingprojects.But there isacatch. Inrecent years, builders and homeowners have becomeaware of a limitation of drywall that has particularbearing on basements: black mold and mildew lovedrywallfacepaper,whichcanleadtoseriousairqualityproblems in damp basements. To combat this,manufacturers have developed drywall products thatresistmoldinfestation.Forbasementremodeling,alwayschoosemold-resistantpanels.Ifyouareunabletolocateanymold-resistantdrywall,

the next best choice is moisture-resistant drywall.Commonlycalledgreenboardorblueboard,itisdesignedtowithstandoccasionalcontactwithmoisture.Forareasthatwillreceivetile,useatilebackerorcementboard.Drywall comes in four-foot-wide panels in lengths

ranging from eight to 16 feet and in thicknesses of 1/4,3/8, 1/2, and 5/8" (although your size choices currentlyaremore limitedwithmold-resistant drywall). Standardhalf-inchpanelsareappropriateforwallsandforceilingswith sixteen inch on-center framing. Where ceilingframing is 24 inches on-center, 5/8"-thick panels arerecommendedtopreventsagging.

Hangingwallboardisnotataskmanypeoplelookforwardto,butcomparedtothemessandtediousnessoffinishingwallboarditisn’tsobad.

Wallboardseamsmustfallonthecentersofframingmembers,someasuretheframingwhenplanningyourlayout.Uselongsheetstospananentirewall,orhangsheetsvertically.Avoidbuttedendjointswheneverpossible;wheretheydooccur,staggerthembetweenrowssotheydon’tfallonthesameframingmember.Don’tplaceseamsoverthecornersofdoors,windows,andotheropenings:jointshereoftencrackorcausebulgesthatinterferewithtrim.Whereframingcontainsutilitylines,drawamapforfuturereferencenotinglocationsofwiring,pipes,andshutoffvalves.

PreparationTips

Installprotectorplateswherewiresorpipespassthroughframingmembersandarelessthan1-1/4"fromthefrontedge.Theplateskeepdrywallscrewsfrompuncturingwiresorpipes.

Wrapcold-waterpipesalongtheceilingwithfoaminsulationbeforecoveringthemwithdrywall.Thispreventscondensationonthepipesthatcandripontothedrywallandcausestaining.

Markthelocationanddimensionsofelectricalboxesonthefloor.Thismakesiteasiertolocatethemduringwallboardinstallation.

Useaplaneorchiselonstudsthatbowslightly.Trimthefacingedgejustenoughsoitisflushwiththesurroundingframing.

Studsinnon-load-bearingwallsbowedinwardmorethan1/4"canbestraightened.Usingahandsaw,makea2"cutintothestudatthemidpointofthebow.Pullthestudoutward,andglueataperedwoodshimintothesawcuttoholdthestudstraight.Attacha2-ft.-long2×4bracetoonesideofthestudtostrengthenit,thentrimofftheshim.Forstudsthatbowoutward,planedownthestudsurfacewithaportablepowerplaneorhandplane.Replaceanystudsthatareseverelytwisted.

HowtoMakeStraightWallboardCuts

Markthelengthonthefaceofthepanel,thensetaT-squareatthemark.Holdthesquareinplacewithyourhandandfoot,andcutthroughthefacepaperusingautilityknifewithsharpblade.

Bendthescoredsectionbackwardwithbothhandstosnapthegypsumcore.

Foldbackthewastepieceandcutthroughthebackpaperwiththeutilityknife.

HowtoCutNotches

Usingalargedrywallsaw,cuttheverticalsidesofthenotch.(Thesesawsarealsohandyforcuttingoutdoorandwindowopeningsafterthedrywallisinstalled.)

Cutthefacepaperalongthebottomofthenotchusingautilityknife.Snapthewastepiecebackwardtobreakthecore,thencutthroughthebackpaper.

HowtoCutLargeOpenings

Measurethelocationofthecutoutandtransferthedimensionstothebacksideofthepanel.Scorealongthelinethatrepresentstheheaderoftheopeningusingastraightedgeandutilityknife.

Installthepanelovertheopening.Thescoredlineshouldfallattheheader.Cutthewallboardalongthejambsanduptotheheaderusingawallboardsaw.Snapforwardthewastepiecetobreakthecore,thencutthroughthefacepaperandremove.

HowtoMark&CutElectricalBoxOpenings

Usechalkorlipsticktorubthefrontedgeoftheelectricalbox(inset)andthenpositionthewallboardpanelandpressitagainsttheboxtomarktheopening.

Variation:Takemeasurementsandplotoutthecoordinatesontothewallboardsheet.

Drillapilotholeinonecorneroftheoutline,thenmakethecutoutwithakeyholesaw.

HangingWallboard

Whereuntaperedpanelendswillbebuttedtogether,bevel-cuttheoutsideedgesofeachpanelat45°,removingabout1/8"ofmaterial.Thishelpspreventthepaperfromcreatingaridgealongtheseam.Peeloffanyloosepaperfromtheedge.

Butttaperededgestogetherwhereverpossibletocreateashallowtroughforjointcompoundandwallboardseamtape.

Adhesivescreatestrongerbondsthanfasteners,andreducethenumberofscrewsneededforpanelinstallation.Applya3/8"beadalongframingmembers,stopping6"fromthepaneledges(left).Atbuttjoints,applybeadstobothsidesofthejoint(right).Panelsarethenfastenedalongtheperimeter.

Atpaneledges,drivefasteners3/8"fromtheedges,makingsuretohittheframingsquarely.Ifthefastenertearsthepaperorcrumblestheedge,driveanotherabout2"awayfromthefirst.

Recessallscrewstoprovideaspace,calledadimple,forthejointcompound.However,drivingascrewtoofarandbreakingthepaperrendersituseless.Ifthishappens,driveanotherscrewabout2"away.

HowtoHangWallboardonCeilings

Snapachalklineperpendiculartothejoists,48-1/8"fromthestartingwall.

Measuretomakesurethefirstpanelwillbreakonthecenterofajoist.Ifnecessary,cutthepanelontheendthatabutsthesidewallsothepanelbreaksonthenextfarthestjoist.Loadthepanelontoarenteddrywalllift,oruseahelper,andliftthepanelflatagainstthejoists.

Positionthepanelwiththeleadingedgeonthechalklineandtheendcenteredonajoist.Fastenthepanelwith1-1/4"wallboardscrewsevery8"alongedgesand12"infield(consultyourlocalbuildingdepartment).

Afterthefirstrowofpanelsisinstalled,beginthenextrowwithahalf-panel.Thisensuresthatthebuttedendjointswillbestaggeredbetweenrows.

Tip

Drywallstiltsbringyouwithinreachofceilings,soyoucanfastenandfinishthedrywallwithoutaladder.Stiltsarecommonlyavailableatrentalcentersandaresurprisinglyeasytouse.

HowtoHangWallboardonWalls

Measurefromthewallendorcornertomakesurethefirstpanelwillbreakonthecenterofthestud.Ifnecessary,trimthesheetonthesideorendthatwillbeplacedinthecorner.Markthestudcentersonthepanelfaceandpre-drivescrewsateachlocationalongthetopedgetofacilitatefastening.Applyadhesivetothestuds,ifnecessary.

Withahelperorawallboardlift,hoistthefirstpaneltightagainsttheceiling,makingsurethesideedgeiscenteredonastud.Pushthepanelflatagainsttheframinganddrivethestarterscrewstosecurethepanel.Makeanycutouts,thenfastenthefieldofthepanel.

Measure,cut,andinstalltheremainingpanelsalongtheupperwall.Bevelpanelendsslightly,leavinga1/8"gapbetweenthematthejoint.Buttjointscanalsobeinstalledusingbackblockingtocreatearecess.

Measure,cut,andinstallthebottomrow,buttingthepanelstighttotheupperrowandleavinga1/2"gapatthefloor.Securetotheframingalongthetopedgeusingthestarterscrews,thenmakeallcutoutsbeforefasteningtherestofthepanel.

Variation:Wheninstallingwallboardvertically,cuteachpanelsoit’s1/2"shorterthantheceilingheighttoallowforexpansion.(Thegapwillbecoveredbybasemolding.)Avoidplacingtaperededgesatoutsidecorners,whichmakesthemdifficulttofinish.

ManagingCorners

Standard90°insidecornersareinstalledwiththefirstpanelbuttedagainsttheframingandtheadjacentpanelbuttedagainstthefirst.Thescrewspacingremainsthesameasonaflatwall.

Usea“floatingcorner”toreducethechancesofpoppedfastenersandcracks.Installthefirstpanel,fasteningonlytowithinonestudbayofthecorner.Pushtheleadingedgeoftheadjacentpanelagainstthefirsttosupporttheunfastenededge.Fastenthesecondpanelnormally,includingthecorner.

Atoutsidecorners,runpanelslongsotheyextendpastthecornerframing.Fastenthepanelinplace,thenscorethebacksideandsnapcuttoremovethewastepiece.

Forstandard90°outsidecorners,installthefirstpanelsotheoutsideedgeisflushwiththeframing,theninstalltheadjacentpanelsoitoverlapstheendofthefirstpanel.

FinishingDrywall

Finishing drywall is the more difficult phase ofsurfacingwallsandceilings,butit’saprojectwellwithinthe ability of any homeowner. Armed with a basicunderstandingofthevarietyoffinishmaterialsavailable,you’llbeabletowalkoutofyourlocalhomecenterwiththe exact supplies you need to cover all joints, corners,andfastenersforasuccessfulwallboardfinishproject.Cornerbeadistheanglestrip,usuallymadeofmetalor

vinyl,thatcoversawallboardcorner,creatingastraight,durableedgewherewallsintersect.Mostcornerbeadsareinstalled over the wallboard and are finished withcompound. In addition to standard 90° outside-cornerbead, there’s an ever-growing variety of bead typesdesigned for specific situations and easy application.Therearebeadsforinsidecorners,flexiblebeadsforoff-angles and curves, J-beads and L-beads for flat paneledges,andbullnosebeadsforcreatingroundedinsideandoutside corners. While metal beads are installed withfasteners,vinylbeadscanbeinstalledwithvinyladhesiveandstaples,orbeembeddedinjointcompoundusingthesametechniquesforinstallingpaper-facedbeads.

Achievingasmoothwallsurfacedependscompletelyonhowwellyoumanagethetaping,“mudding,”andsandingtasksinyourproject.

Aselectionoftapingknivesisrequiredtohandledifferentpartsoftheprocessofapplyingjointtapeandcompound.A6"knifeisusedfortheinitialcompoundapplicationoftapebedsandtosettapeintothebeds.A12"knifeisusedforthefinalcoat,andaknifewithanL-shapedbladegetsintocorners.

Jointtapeiscombinedwithjointcompoundtocreateapermanentlayerthatcoversthewallboardseams,aswellassmallholesandgaps.Withouttape,thickapplicationsofcompoundarehighlypronetocracking.Therearetwotypes of joint tape—paper and self-adhesive fiberglassmesh.Joint compound, commonly called mud, seals and

levelsallseams,corners,anddepressionsinawallboardinstallation. It’s also used for skim-coating and sometexturing treatments. There are several types ofcompoundswith important differences among them, butthetwomainformsaresetting-typeanddrying-type.Setting-typecompoundissoldindrypowderformthat

ismixedwithwater before application.Because it driesthrough chemical reaction, setting compound driesquickly and is virtually unaffected by humidity andtemperature. Setting compounds generally shrink less,bond better, and become harder than drying types, butthey’remoredifficulttosand,acharacteristicthatmakesthemabetterchoiceforthetapingcoatthanforthefillerand final coats. Drying-type compounds dry throughevaporation and usually take about 24 hours to drycompletely. Available in dry powder and convenientpremixed forms in resealable one-and five-gallonbuckets, drying compounds are highly workable andconsistent.

HowtoInstallMetalCornerBead

Startingatthetop,fastenthebeadflangeswith1-1/4"drywallscrewsdrivenevery9"andabout1/4"fromtheedge.Alternatesideswitheachscrewtokeepthebeadcentered.Thescrewsmustnotprojectbeyondtheraisedspine.

Usefulllengthsofcornerbeadwherepossible.Ifyoumustjointwolengths,cutthetwopiecestosize,thenbutttogetherthefinishedends.Makesuretheendsareperfectlyalignedandthespineisstraightalongthelengthofthecorner.Fileends,ifnecessary.

HowtoInstallVinylCornerBead

Cutvinylbeadtolengthandtestfitovercorner.Sprayvinyladhesiveevenlyalongtheentirelengthofthecorner,thenalongthebead.

Quicklyinstallthebead,pressingtheflangesintotheadhesive.Fastenthebeadinplacewith1/2"staplesevery8".

TheFinishingSequence

Finishing newly installed drywall is satisfyingworkthatrequirespatienceandsomebasicskill,butit’seasierthan most people think. Beginners make their biggest,and most lasting, mistakes by rushing the job andapplying toomuchcompoundinanattempt toeliminatecoats. But even for professionals, drywall finishinginvolves threesteps,andsometimesmore,plus the finalsanding.Thefirststep is the tapingcoat,whenyoutapethe seams between the drywall panels. If you’re usingstandardmetalcornerbeadontheoutsidecorners,installitbeforestartingthetapingcoat;paper-facedbeadsgoonafter the tape. The screw heads get covered withcompoundatthebeginningofeachcoat.Afterthetapingcomesthesecond,orfiller,coat.Thisiswhenyouleavethemostcompoundonthewall,fillinginthemajorityofeach depression. With the filler coat, the walls start tolook pretty good, but they don’t have to be perfect; thethirdcoatwill takecareofminor imperfections.Lightlysandthesecondcoat,thenapplythefinalcoat.

HowtoMixJointCompound

Mixpowderedsetting-typecompoundwithcool,potablewaterinaclean5-gal.bucket,followingthemanufacturer’sdirections.Alltoolsandmaterialsmustbeclean—dirtywater,oldcompound,andothercontaminantswillaffectcompoundsettimeandquality.

Useaheavy-dutydrillwithamixingpaddletothoroughlymixthecompoundtoastiffyetworkableconsistency.Usealowspeedtoavoidwhippingairintothecompound.Donotoverworksetting-typecompound,asitwillbeginsetup.Forpowdereddrying-typecompound,remixafter15minutes.Cleantoolsthoroughlyimmediatelyafteruse.

Useahandmashertoloosenpremixedcompound.Ifthecompoundhasbeenaroundawhileandisstiff,addalittlewaterandmixtoanevenconsistency.

HowtoTape&Mud

Usinga4or6"tapingknife,applycompoundovereachscrewhead,forcingitintothedepression.Firmlydragtheknifeintheoppositedirection,removingexcesscompoundfromthepanelsurface.

Applyanevenbedlayerofsetting-typecompoundabout1/8"thickand6"wideovertaperedseamsusinga6"tapingknife.Note:Withpapertape,youcanalsousepremixedtapingorall-purposecompound.

Centerthetapeovertheseamandlightlyembeditinthecompound,makingsurethetapeissmoothandstraight.Attheendoftheseam,tearoffthetapesoitextendsallthewayintotheinsidecornersanduptothecornerbeadatoutsidecorners.

Smooththetapewiththetapingknife,workingoutfromthecenter.Applyenoughpressuretoforcecompoundfromunderneaththetape,sothetapeisflatandhasathinlayerbeneathit.

Atinsidecorners,smooththefinalbitoftapebyreversingtheknifeandcarefullypushingittowardthecorner.Carefullyremoveexcesscompoundalongtheedgesofthebedlayerwiththetapingknife.

Coververticalbuttseamswitha1/8"-thicklayerofjointcompound.Youshouldtryandavoidthiskindofjoint,butinsomecasesthereisnowayaroundit.Coverthecompoundwithseamtapeandmorecompound.Makethetapedareaextrawidesoyoucanfeatheritbackgradually.

Foldprecreasedpapertapeinhalftocreatea90°angletotapeinsidecorners.

Applyanevenlayerofsetting-typecompoundabout1/8"thickand3"wide,tobothsidesofthecorner,usinga4"tapingknife.Embedthetapeintothecompoundusingyourfingersandatapingknife.

Carefullysmoothandflattenbothsidesofthetape,removingexcesscompoundtoleaveonlyathinlayerbeneath.Makesurethecenterofthetapeisalignedstraightwiththecorner.

Tip

Aninsidecornerknifecanembedbothsidesofthetapeinonepass—drawtheknifealongthetape,applyingenoughpressuretoleaveathinlayerofcompoundbeneath.Feathereachsideusingastraight6"tapingknife,ifnecessary.

Finishoutsidecornerbeadwitha6"knife.Applythecompoundwhiledraggingtheknifealongtheraisedspineofthebead.Makeasecondpasstofeathertheoutsideedgeofthecompound,thenathirddraggingalongthebeadagain.Smoothanyareaswherethecornerbeadmeetstapedcornersorseams.

Scrapeoffanyremainingridgesandchunksafterthetapingcoathasdriedcompletely,thensecond-coatthescrewheads,usinga6"tapingknifeandall-purposecompound.Note:Setting-typecompoundanddrying-typetoppingcompoundarealsoacceptable.

Applyanevenlayerofcompoundtobothsidesofeachinsidecornerusinga6"tapingknife.Smoothonesideatatime,holdingthebladeabout15°fromhorizontalandlightlydraggingthepointalongthecorner.Makeasecondpasstoremoveexcesscompoundalongtheouteredges.Repeat,ifnecessary.

Coattaperedseamswithanevenlayerofall-purposecompoundusinga12"tapingknife.Wheneverpossible,applythecoatinonedirectionandsmoothitintheopposite.Featherthesidesofthecompoundfirst,holdingthebladealmostflatandapplyingpressuretotheoutsideofthebladesothebladejustskimsoverthecenteroftheseam.

Afterfeatheringbothsideedgesofthecompound,makeapassdownthecenteroftheseam,applyingevenpressuretotheblade.Thispassshouldleavetheseamsmoothandeven,withtheedgesfeatheredouttonothing.Thejointtapeshouldbecompletelycovered.

Second-coattheoutsidecorners,onesideatatime,usinga12"knife.Applyanevenlayerofcompound,thenfeathertheoutsideedgebyapplyingpressuretotheoutsideoftheknife—enoughsothatthebladeflexesandremovesmostofthecompoundalongtheedgebutleavesthecornerintact.Makeasecondpasswiththebladeridingalongtheraisedspine,applyingevenpressure.

Afterthefillercoathasdried,lightlysandallofthejoints,thenthird-coatthescrews.Applythefinalcoat,followingthesamestepsusedforthefillercoatbutdotheseamsfirst,thentheoutsidecorners,followedbytheinsidecorners.Usea12"knifeandspreadthecompoundafewincheswiderthanthejointsinthefillercoat.Removemostofthecompound,fillingscratchesandlowspotsbutleavingonlytraceselsewhere.Makeseveralpasses,ifnecessary,untilthesurfaceissmoothandtherearenoknifetracksorotherimperfections.Carefullyblendintersectingjointssothere’snovisibletransition.

HowtoSandJointCompound

Usesheetplasticand2"maskingtapetohelpconfinedusttotheworkarea.Coveralldoorways,cabinets,built-ins,andanygapsorotheropeningswithplastic,sealingallfouredgeswithtape,otherwisethefinedustproducedbysandingcanfinditswaythrough.

Knockdownanyridges,chunksortoolmarkspriortosanding,usinga6"tapingknife.Donotapplytoomuchpressure—youdon’twanttodigintothecompound,onlyremovetheexcess.

Tip

Asyouwork,ifyouoversandordiscoverlowspotsthatrequireanothercoatofcompound,marktheareawithapieceoftapeforrepairafteryoufinishsanding.Makesuretowipeawaydustsothetapestickstothesurface.

Lightlysandallseamsandoutsidecornersusingapolesanderwith220-gritsandingscreenor150-gritsandpaper.Workinthedirectionofthejoints,applyingevenpressuretosmoothtransitionsandhighareas.Don’tsandoutdepressions;fillthemwithcompoundandresand.Becarefulnottoover-sandorexposejointtape.

Insidecornersoftenarefinishedwithonlyoneortwothincoatsofcompoundoverthetape.Sandtheinsideedgeofjointsonlylightlyandsmooththeoutsideedgecarefully;insidecornerswillbesandedbyhandlater.

Fine-sandtheseams,outsidecorners,andfastenerheadsusingasandingblockwith150-to220-gritsandingscreenorsandpaper.Asyouwork,useyourhandtofeelfordefectsalongthecompound.Abrightworklightangledtohighlightseamscanhelprevealproblemareas.

Toavoiddamagefromoversanding,usea150-gritdrysandingspongetosandinsidecorners.Thesidesofsandingspongesalsocontaingrit,allowingyoutosandbothsidesofacorneratoncetohelppreventoversanding.

Fortightorhard-to-reachcorners,foldapieceofsandingscreenorsandpaperinthirdsandsandtheareacarefully.Ratherthanusingjustyourfingertips,trytoflattenyourhandasmuchaspossibletospreadoutthepressuretoavoidsandingtoodeep.

Repairdepressions,scratchesorexposedtapeduetooversandingafterfinalsandingiscomplete.Wipetheareawithadryclothtoremovedust,thenapplyathincoatofall-purposecompound.Allowtodrythoroughly,thenresand.

Withsandingcomplete,removedustfromthepanelswithadrytowelorsoftbroom.Useawet-dryvacuumtocleanoutallelectricalboxesandaroundfloors,windows,anddoors,thencarefullyrollupsheetplasticanddiscard.Finally,dampmopthefloortoremoveanyremainingdust.

InstallingPaneling

Paneling is a versatile wall-surfacing material thatcomes in a wide range of styles, colors, and prices.Panelingsheetsaremadefromavarietyofmaterialsfornumerous applications, most of which are suitable forbasementinstallations.LaminatepanelsaresheetsofMDF,particle-board,or

plywoodfacedwithpaper,print,orvinyl.Laminatesareavailable in hundreds of colors, styles, and patterns,providingadurablealternativetopaintorwallcoverings.If you routinely have moisture problems in yourbasement, avoid these in favor of paneling that doesn’thaveawood-basedbacking.FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic), extruded plastic,

and vinyl panels contain solid material throughout thepanel, creating a low-maintenance, water-resistant wallsurface for bathrooms, utility rooms, garages, andworkshops, as well as having numerous commercialapplications.

Panelingispopularinbasementroomsbecauseitisinexpensiveanddoesn’trequirefinishing.WiththeexceptionofsolidPVCtileboard,mostpanelingismadefromabaselayerofhardboardorlauanplywoodcoveredwithaprintedfacing.

Markcutoutsonbackofpanelingsheetbycoloringtheedgesofelectricalboxeswithchalkorlipstickandthenpressingthepanelagainstthebox.

Tileboard ismoisture-resistant hardboard coatedwithmelamine, providing a durable, easy-to-clean plasticfinish. It’s designed to replicate the appearance ofceramictileandisespeciallypopularinbathrooms.Mostpanelingisavailablein4×8,4×9,and4×10

sheets. Somemanufacturers also offer sheets in 60-inchwidths.Panelingthatis1/4"orlessinthicknessrequiresa solid backer of at least 1/2" wallboard; paneling 3/8"thick ormore is rigid enough to be fastened directly toframingwith16-inchO.C.spacing.Installationtypicallyinvolves apanel adhesive, either applied inbeads alongthewallorframing,ortroweledontothebacksurfaceofthe panel. Make sure to check the manufacturer’sinstructionsfortheproductyoupurchase.Toestimatethenumberofpanelingsheetsyou’llneed,

measure the total width of the walls and divide by 48inches. For every door subtract half a sheet, for everywindow,aquartersheet.Before installing paneling, condition it to the room it

will be installed in for at least twenty-four hours.Standsheetsuprightalongtheir longedge,eitherseparatelyorstackedtogetherwithwoodspacersbetweeneachsheettoallowairtoflow.

HowtoInstallPaneling

Startinginthecornerfarthestfromtheentry,useastudfindertolocatethecenterofthestudclosestto,butlessthan,48"fromthecorner.Findandmarkstudcentersevery48"fromthisfirststud.Snapaplumbchalklinedownthewallateachlocation.Panelingseamswillfallalongtheselines.

Laythefirstpanelingsheetface-sidedown.Measurethedistancefromcornertothefirstplumbmarkandadd1"toallowforscribing.Useacircularsawandclampedstraightedgetocutpanelingtothismeasurement.

Applystainorpainttothewallattheplumblinessothebackerwillnotshowthroughtheslightgapsatjoints.Selectastainthatmatchesthecolorofthepanelingedges,whichmaybedarkerthanthepanelingsurface.

Useacaulkguntoapply2"-longwavybeadsofpaneladhesivetothewallat6"intervalsabout1"backfromplumblines(topreventadhesivefromseepingoutthroughthejoints).Fornewconstruction,applyadhesivedirectlytothestuds.

Attachthepanelingtothetopofthewallusing4dfinishingnailsdrivenevery16".Pressthepanelingagainsttheadhesive,thenpullitawayfromthewall.Pressthepanelingbackagainstthewallwhentheadhesiveistacky,about2minutes.

Hangtheremainingpanelingsothatthereisaslightspaceatthejoints.Thisspaceallowspanelingtoexpandindampweather.Useadimeasaspacinggauge.

InstallingaSuspendedCeiling

Suspended ceilings are traditionally popular ceilingfinishes for basements because they hang below pipesand other mechanicals, providing easy access to them.Suspendedceilingtilemanufacturershaveawidearrayofceiling tiles to choose from. Popular styles mimichistorical tin tiles and add depth to the ceiling whileminimizingsoundandvibrationnoise.A suspended ceiling is a grid framework made of

lightweight metal brackets hung on wires attached toceiling or floor joists. The frame consists of T-shapedmainbeams(mains),crosstees(tees),andL-shapedwallangles. The grid supports ceiling panels, which rest ontheflangesoftheframingpieces.Panelsareavailablein2×2-ft.or2×4-ft.,inavarietyofstyles.Specialoptionsinclude insulated panels, acoustical panels that absorbsound,andlight-diffuserscreensforusewithfluorescentlights. Generally, metal-frame ceiling systems are moredurablethanonesmadeofplastic.Tobeginyourceilingproject,devise thepanel layout

based on the size of the room, placing equally sizedtrimmed panels on opposite sides to create a balancedlook.Yourceilingmustalsobelevel.

Buildavalancearoundbasementawningwindowssotheycanbeopenedfully.Attach1×lumberofanappropriatewidthtojoistsorblocking.Installdrywall(orasuspended-ceilingpaneltrimmedtofit)tothejoistsinsidethevalance.

Suspendedceilingsareverypracticalinbasementrooms,andyoucanfindtheminmanymoredesignchoicesthanyoumightexpect.

HowtoInstallaSuspendedCeiling

Makeamarkononewallthatrepresentstheceilingheightplustheheightofthewallangle.Useawaterleveltotransferthatheighttobothendsofeachwall.Snapachalklinetoconnectthemarks.Thislinerepresentsthetopoftheceiling’swallangle.

Attachwallanglepiecestothestudsonallwalls,positioningthetopofthewallangleflushwiththechalkline.Use1-1/2"drywallscrews(orshortmasonrynailsdrivenintomortarjointsonconcreteblockwalls).Cutanglepiecesusingaviationsnips.

Tip:Trimwallanglepiecestofitaroundcorners.Atinsidecorners,back-cuttheverticalflangesslightly,thenoverlapthehorizontalflanges.Atoutsidecorners,miter-cutonehorizontalflange,andoverlaptheflanges.

Markthelocationofeachmainonthewallanglesattheendsoftheroom.Themainsmustbeparalleltoeachotherandperpendiculartotheceilingjoists.Setupaguidestringforeachmainusingathinstringandlock-typeclamps(inset).Clampthestringstotheopposingwallangles,stretchingthemverytautsothere’snosagging.

Installscreweyesforhangingthemainsusingadrillandscreweyedriver.Drillpilotholesanddrivetheeyesintothejoistsevery4ft.,locatingthemdirectlyabovetheguidestrings.Attachhangerwiretothescreweyesbythreadingoneendthroughtheeyeandtwistingthewireonitselfatleastthreetimes.Trimexcesswire,leavingafewinchesofwirehangingbelowtheleveloftheguidestring.

Measurethedistancefromthebottomofamain’sflangetothehangerholeintheweb(inset).Usethismeasurementtoprebendeachhangerwire.Measureupfromtheguidestringandmakea90°bendinthewireusingpliers.

Followingyourceilingplan,marktheplacementofthefirstteeonoppositewallanglesatoneendoftheroom.Setupaguidestringfortheteeusingastringandclamps,asbefore.Thisstringmustbeperpendiculartotheguidestringsforthemains.

Trimoneendofeachmainsothatateeslotinthemain’swebisalignedwiththeteeguidestring,andtheendofthemainbearsfullyonawallangle.Setthemaininplacetocheckthealignmentoftheteeslotwiththestring.

Cuttheotherendofeachmaintofit,sothatitrestsontheopposingwallangle.Ifasinglemaincannotspantheroom,splicetwomainstogetherend-to-end(theendsshouldbefashionedwithmale-femaleconnectors).Makesuretheteeslotsremainalignedwhensplicing.

Installthemainsbysettingtheendsonthewallangleandthreadingthehangerwiresthroughthehangerholesinthewebs.Thewiresshouldbeasclosetoverticalaspossible.Wrapeachwirearounditselfthreetimes,makingsurethemain’sflangeislevelwiththemainguidestring.Alsoinstallahangerneareachmainsplice.

Attachteestothemains,slippingthetabbedendsintotheteeslotsonthemains.Alignthefirstrowofteeswiththeteeguidestring;installtheremainingrowsat4-ft.intervals.Ifyou’reusing2×2-ft.panels,install2-ft.crossteesbetweenthemidpointsofthe4-ft.tees.Cutandinstallthebordertees,settingtheteeendsonthewallangles.Removeallguidestringsandclamps.

Placefullceilingpanelsintothegridfirst,theninstalltheborderpanels.Liftthepanelsinatanangle,andpositionthemsotheyrestontheframe’sflanges.Reachthroughadjacentopeningstoadjustthepanels,ifnecessary.

Totrimtheborderpanelstosize,cutthemface-upusingastraightedgeandutilityknife.

InstallinganAcousticTileCeiling

Easy-to-install ceiling tile can lend character to aplainceilingorhelpturnanunfinishedbasementoratticintobeautiful livingspace.Madeofpressedmineralandfiberboard, ceiling tiles are available in a variety ofstyles.Theyalsoprovidemoderatenoisereduction.Ceiling tiles typically can be attached directly to a

drywallorplasterceilingwithadhesive.Ifyourceilingisdamaged or uneven, or if you have an unfinished joistceiling,install1×2furringstripsasabaseforthetiles,as shown in this project. Some systems include metaltracksforclip-oninstallation.Unlessyour ceilingmeasures in even feet, youwon’t

beable to install the12-inch tileswithout somecutting.To prevent an unattractive installation with small,irregulartilesalongtwosides,includeacourseofbordertiles along theperimeter of the installation.Plan so thattiles at opposite ends of the room are cut to the samewidthandareatleasthalfthewidthofafulltile.Most ceiling tile comes prefinished, but it can be

painted tomatch any decor. For best results, apply twocoatsofpaintusingarollerwitha1/4"nap,andwait24hoursbetweencoats.

Measuretheceilinganddevisealayout.Ifthelength(orwidth)doesn’tmeasureinevenfeet,usethisformulatodeterminethewidthofthebordertiles:add12tothenumberofinchesremaininganddivideby2.Theresultisthewidthofthebordertile.(Forexample,iftheroomlengthis15ft.,4",add12tothe4,thendivide16by2,whichresultsinan8"bordertile.)

Acoustictilesareattachedtowoodstripsontheceilingratherthansuspended.Theydonotlowertheceilingheightasmuchasasuspendedceiling,buttheyarealsohardertoremoveforjoistcavityaccess.

HowtoInstallanAcousticTileCeiling

Installthefirstfurringstripflushwiththewallandperpendiculartothejoists,fasteningwithtwo8dnailsor2"screwsateachjoist.Measureoutfromthewalladistanceequaltothebordertilewidthminus3/4"andsnapachalkline.Installthesecondfurringstripwithitswall-sideedgeonthechalkline.

Installtheremainingstrips12"on-centerfromthesecondstrip.Measurefromthesecondstripandmarkthejoistnearestthewallevery12".Repeatalongthejoistontheoppositesideoftheroom,thensnapchalklinesbetweenthemarks.Installthefurringstripsalongthelines.Installthelastfurringstripflushagainsttheoppositesidewall.

Checkthestripswitha4-ft.level.Insertwoodshimsbetweenthestripsandjoistsasnecessarytobringthestripsintoalevelplane.

Cutbordertileswithautilityknifetofit(inset).Positionthecornertilewiththeflangeedgesalignedwiththetwostringlinesandfastenittothefurringstripswithfour1/2"staples.Cutandinstalltwobordertilesalongeachwall,makingsurethetilesfitsnuglytogether.

Fillinbetweenthebordertileswithfull-sizetiles.Continueworkingdiagonallyinthismannertowardtheoppositecorner.Forthebordertilesalongthefarwall,trimofftheflangeedgesandstaplethroughthefacesofthetilesclosetothewall.

Windows,Doors&Trim

Installingwindowsinexteriorbasementwallscanbeagooddealmorecomplicatedthanputtingthemintothehousewalls.Notonlydoyouhavetodrivefastenersintoconcrete instead of wood, if you need to enlarge anopening (a common requirement) there is no way ofgetting around cutting concrete. The most commonbasement window project is adding an egress window.Required in bedrooms and a good idea in any room, anegresswindowmustmeetspecificsizerequirementsthatensureit isbigenoughforanadult toescapethroughinanemergency.Once the window opening is framed in wood, the

installation isprettymuch thesameasanywhereelse inyourhouse.Thesameistrueforinteriordoorsandtrim.Ifyouhaveeverinstalledanyoftheseitemsupstairs,youwillhavenoproblemdoingthesameinthebasement.Inthischapter:

InstallinganEgressWindowReplacingBasementWindowsTrimmingBasementWindowsInstallingPrehungInteriorDoorsInstallingPocketDoorsInstallingBifoldDoorsInstallingWalkoutPatioDoorsInstallingMolding

InstallinganEgressWindow

Anegresswindowbringsapleasantsourceofnaturallight and ventilation to a dark, dank basement. Moreimportantly, it canprovidea lifesavingmeansofescapein the event of a fire. Before you proceed with thisproject, readmore about building code issues regardingbasementegressonpage21.Contactyourlocalbuildingdepartment to apply for the proper permits and to learnmoreaboutthecoderequirementsforyourarea.As long as the window opens wide enough to meet

minimum standards for egress, the particular windowstyle is really up to you. Casement windows are ideal,because they crank open quickly and provideunobstructedescape.Atall,double-hungwindoworwidesliding window can also work. Select a window withinsulated glass and clad with vinyl or aluminum fordurability;itwillbesubjecttohumidityandtemperaturefluctuations just like any other above-grade window inyourhome.The second fundamental component of a basement

egress window project is the subterranean escape wellyou install outside the foundation. There are severaloptions to choose from: prefabricatedwell kitsmade oflightweight plastic that bolt together and are easy toinstall; corrugated metal wells that are a lower-costoption;or,awellbuiltfromscratchusingconcrete,stone,

orlandscapetimber.Installinganegresswindowinvolvesfourmajorsteps:

diggingthewell,cuttinganeworlargerwindowopeningin the foundation, installing the window, and, finally,installingthewell.You’llsavetimeandeffortifyouhirea backhoe operator to excavate thewell. Inmost cases,you’ll alsoneed a large concrete saw (available atmostrentalstores)tocutthefoundationwall.

Replacingasmallbasementwindowwithanegresswindowisabigjob,butitisrequiredifyouwanttoconvertpartofabasementintolivablespace,especiallyabedroom.

HowtoInstallanEgressWindow&WindowWell

Layouttheborderofthewindowwellareawithstakesandstring.Planthelengthandwidthoftheexcavationtobeseveralfeetlargerthanthewindowwell’soverallsizetoprovideextraroomforinstallationandadjustment.

Excavatethewelltoadepth6to12"deeperthanthewell’soverallheighttoallowroomfordrainagegravel.Makesuretohaveyourlocalpublicutilitiescompanyinspectthewellexcavationareaandokayitfordiggingbeforeyoustart.

Measureandmarkthefoundationwallwithbrightlycoloredmaskingtapetoestablishtheoverallsizeofthewindow’sroughopening(here,we’rereplacinganexistingwindow).Besuretotakeintoaccountthewindow’sroughopeningdimensions,thethicknessoftheroughframing(usually2xstock),andthewidthofthestructuralheaderyoumayneedtobuild.Rememberalsothatsillheightmustbewithin44"ofthefloor.Removeexistingwallcoveringsinsidethelayoutarea.

Ifthefloorjoistsrunperpendiculartoyourprojectwall,buildatemporarysupportwallparalleltothefoundationwalland6to8ft.fromit.Staplesheetplastictothewallandfloorjoiststoformaworktentthatwillhelpcontrolconcretedust.

Drillreferenceholesateachbottomcornerwithahammerdrillandlongmasonrybit.Theseholeswillprovidereferencepointsforcuttingfrombothsides,ensuringcleanbreaks.

Equipamasonrycuttingsaw(orlargeanglegrinder)withadiamondbladeandsetitfora1/2"cuttoscoretheblocksfirst.Thenresetthesawtofulldepthandmakethefinalbottomandsidecutsthroughtheblocks.Wearatight-fittingparticlemask,earandeyeprotection,andglovesforallofthiscuttingwork;thesawwillgenerateatremendousamountofthickdust.Feedthesawslowlyandsteadily.Stopandrestperiodicallysothedustcansettle.

Ontheoutsidefoundationwall,scorethecuts,thenmakefull-depthcuts.

Striketheblockswithahandmaultobreakorloosentheblocksections.Whenalltheblocksareremoved,carefullychipawayremainingdebriswithacoldchiseltocreateflatsurfaces.

Fillthehollowvoidsinconcreteblockwalls,withbrokenpiecesofblock,thenlevelandsmooththevoidsbytrowellingonafreshlayerofquick-curingconcrete.Flattenthesurfaces,andallowtheconcretetodryovernight.

Ifyourprojectrequiresanewheaderabovethenewwindow,builditfrompiecesof2×lumbersandwiching1/2"plywoodandfastenedtogetherwithconstructionadhesiveand10dnails.Slipitintoplaceandtackittemporarilytothemudsillwith3-1/2"deckscrewsdriventoenailstyle.

Cutthesillplateforthewindow’sroughframefrom2×treatedlumberthat’sthesamewidthasthethicknessofthefoundationwall.Fastenthesilltothefoundationwith3/16×3-1/4"countersunkmasonryscrews.Drillpilotholesforthescrewsfirstwithahammerdrill.

Cuttwopiecesoftreatedlumberjustslightlylongerthantheopeningsothey’llfittightlybetweenthenewheaderandsill.Tapthemintoplacewithamaul.Adjustthemforplumbandfastenthemtothefoundationwithcountersunkmasonryscrewsorpowder-actuatedfasteners.

Applyathickbeadofsiliconecaulkaroundtheoutsideedgesoftheroughframeandsetthewindowinitsopening,seatingthenailingflangesintothecaulk.Shimthewindowsotheframeislevelandplumb.Testtheactionofthewindowtomakesuretheshimsaren’tbowingtheframe.

Attachthewindow’snailingflangestotheroughframewithscrewsornails,asspecifiedbythemanufacturer.Checkthewindowactionperiodicallyasyoufastenittoensurethatitstilloperatessmoothly.

Sealgapsbetweentheroughframeandthefoundationwithabeadofexteriorsiliconeorpolyurethanecaulk.Ifthegapsarewiderthan1/4",insertapieceofbackerrodfirst,thencoveritwithcaulk.Ontheinterior,fillgapsaroundthewindowshimswithstripsoffoambackerrod,fiberglassinsulation,orabeadofminimallyexpandingsprayfoam.Donotdistortthewindowframe.

Fillthewellexcavationwith6to12"ofpeagravel.Thiswillserveasthewindow’sdrainsystem.Followtheegresswellkitinstructionstodeterminetheexactdepthrequired;youmayneedtoaddmoregravelsothetopofthewellwillbeabovethenewwindow.Note:Weaddedadraindowntothefoundation’sperimetertileforimproveddrainageaswell.

Setthebottomsectionofthewellintothehole,andpositionitevenlyfromlefttorightrelativetothewindow.Adjustthegravelsurfacetolevelthewellsectioncarefully.

Stackthesecondwellsectionontopofthefirst,andconnectthetwowiththeappropriatefasteners.

Fastenthewindowwellsectionstothefoundationwallwithconcretesleeveanchorsdrivenintopreboredpilotholes.Youcouldalsousemasonrynailsdrivenwithapowder-actuatedtool.

Whenallthewellsectionsareassembledandsecured,nailpiecesoftrimaroundthewindowframetohidethenailingflange.Completethewellinstallationbyusingexcavateddirttobackfillaroundtheoutsideofthewell.Packthesoilwithatamper,creatingaslopeforgooddrainage.Ifyouareinstallingawindowwellcover,setitinplaceandfastenitaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions.Thecovermustberemovable.

ReplacingBasementWindows

Replacing an old and underperforming basementwindow can accomplishmuch in conjunctionwith yourbasementremodelingproject.Newerwindowscanallowmore light in while keeping drafts out. Theymay haveventilation capabilities that older fixed widows lack.Theycanofferbettersecurity,especially ifyou installaglassblockwindowthatdoesnotletpeopleseeinsidebutstillallowslightintotheroom.Mosthomecenterssellbasementwindowsinstandard

32-inchwide sizes (standard heights are 13, 15, 17, 19and23inches).Themaintypesareawningwindowsthatarehingedontop,hopperwindowsthatarehingedonthebottom,andfixedwindows.Someglassblockoracrylicblockfixedwindowsincludeaventilationopeninginlieuofoneoftheblocks.If your basement window opening is not a standard

size, you have three options. You can have a windowcustom-made (not as expensive as it sounds), you canremovetheoldwindowandenlargetheopening,oryoucan shrink the opening by using thicker lumber for theroughframe.

Basementwindowsaretheonlysourceofnaturallight,buttheyalsocanallowcoldairorevenintruderstoenter.Ifyouareremodelingyourbasement,itmakessensetoupdateoldwindowswithnewonesthatofferbetterenergyefficiencyandsecurity.

HowtoReplaceaBasementWindow

Removetheoldwindowandinspecttheroughframe.Ifitshowssignsofrot,removetheframebycuttingthesillandheaderinhalfandpryingthehalvesout.Cutnewframemembersfrompressure-treateddimensionlumber.

Installthenewroughframeusingapowder-actuatedtooltodrivemasonrynails.Applyseveralthickbeadsofcaulktotheconcretesurfacesfirsttocreateagoodseal.Theheaderandsillshouldrunthefullwidthoftheopeningandbeinstalledbeforethesidemembers.Caulkaroundtheframeedgesandpainttheframewithexteriorprimer.

Positionthenewwindowunitintheopeningandtestitwithalevel.Useshimstoraiseitsoitisnotrestingonthesill.Adjustitsothegapsareevenonthesides.Tip:Youmayfinditeasiertoadjustandinstallthewindowframeifyouremovetheglasssashfirst.

Attachthewindowframetotheroughframeopeningwithscrewsdriventhroughthejambs.Often,thescrewisaccessthroughaholeintheinnerjamblayer.Arrangeshimssothescrewswillpassthroughthem.Donotoverdrivescrews—itcanpullthewindowframeoutofsquare.

Fillgapsbetweentheroughwindowframeandthenewwindowunitwithminimalexpandingsprayfoam.Donotsprayintoomuch—itcandistorttheframewhenitdries.

Installstopmoldingonbothsidesofthewindowtocovergapsbetweenthewindowandtheroughframe.Paintthestopmoldingandframetomatchyourtrimcolor.

TrimmingBasementWindows

Basementwindowsbringmuch-needed sunlight intodarkareas,buteveninfinishedbasementstheyoftengetignored on the trim front. This is partly because mostbasementfoundationwallsareatleasteightinchesthick,and often a lot thicker. Add a furred-out wall and thewindowstarts to lookmore likea tunnelwithapaneofglassat theend.Butwithsomewell-designedandwell-executed trim carpentry, you can turn the depthdisadvantageintoapositive.A basement window opening may be finished with

wallboard,but theeasiestway to trimone isbymakingextrawidecustomjambsthatextendfromtheinsidefaceofthewindowframetotheinteriorwallsurface.Becauseoftheextrawidth,plywoodstockisagoodchoiceforthecustom jambs. The project shown here is created withveneer-coreplywoodwithoakveneersurface.The jambmembers are fastened together into a nice square frameusingrabbetjointsatthecorner.Theframeisscribedandinstalledasa singleunitand then trimmedoutwithoakcasing.Thecasingisappliedflushwiththeinsideedgesoftheframeopening.Ifyouprefertohavearevealedgearound the interior edge of the casing, youwill need toaddasolidhardwoodstriptotheedgeoftheframesothepliesoftheplywoodarenotvisible.

Becausetheyaresetintothickfoundationwalls,basementwindowspresentabitofatrimmingchallenge.Butthethicknessofthefoundationwallalsoletsyoucreateahandyledgethat’sdeepenoughtoholdpottedplantsorevensunningcats.

HowtoTrimaBasementWindow

Checktomakesurethewindowframeandsurroundingareaaredryandfreeofrot,mold,ordamage.Atallfourcornersofthebasementwindow,measurefromtheinsideedgesofthewindowframetothewallsurface.Add1"tothelongestofthesemeasurements.

Setyourtablesawtomakearipcuttothewidtharrivedatinstep1.Ifyoudon’thaveatablesaw,setupacircularsawandstraightedgecuttingguidetocutstripstothislength.Withafine-toothpanel-cuttingblade,ripenoughplywoodstripstomakethefourjambframecomponents.

Crosscuttheplywoodstripstocorrectlengths.Inourcase,wedesignedthejambframetobetheexactsameoutsidedimensionsasthewindowframe,sincetherewassomespacebetweenthejambframeandtheroughopening.

Cut3/8"-deep×3/4"-widerabbetsateachendoftheheadjambandthesilljamb.Aroutertableisthebesttoolforthisjob,butyoumayuseatablesaworhandsawsandchisels.Inspectthejambsfirstandcuttherabbetsinwhicheverfaceisinbettercondition.Toensureuniformity,wegangedthetwojambstogether(they’rethesamelength).It’salsoagoodideatoincludebackerboardstopreventtearout.

Glueandclamptheframepartstogether,makingsuretoclampneareachendfrombothdirections.Setacarpenter’ssquareinsidetheframeandcheckittomakesureit’ssquare.

Beforethegluesets,carefullydrillthreeperpendicularpilotholes,countersunk,throughtherabbetedworkpiecesandintothesidejambsateachcorner.Spacethepilotholesevenly,keepingtheendonesatleast3/4"infromtheend.Drivea1-5/8"drywallscrewintoeachpilothole,takingcarenottooverdrive.Double-checkeachcornerforsquareasyouwork,adjustingtheclampsifneeded.

Letthegluedryforatleastonehour(overnightisbetter),thenremovetheclampsandsettheframeinthewindowopening.Adjustandshimtheframesoitiscenteredandlevelintheopeningandtheexterior-sideedgesfitflushagainstthewindowframe.

Takingcarenottodisturbtheframe’sposition(restaheavytoolonthesilltoholditinplaceifyouwish),pressastraightedgeagainstthewallsurfaceandmarktrimmingpointsatthepointwheretherulemeetsthejambsateachsideofallfourframecornersusingasharppencil.

Removetheframeandclampitonaflatworksurface.Useastraightedgetoconnectthescribemarksattheendsofeachjambframeside.Setthecuttingdepthofyourcircularsawtojustasmallfractionover3/4".Clampastraightedgeguidetotheframesothesawbladewillfollowthecuttinglineandtrimeachframesideinsuccession.(Theadvantageofusingacircularsawhereisthatanytearoutfromthebladewillbeonthenonvisiblefacesoftheframe.)

Replacetheframeinthewindowopeninginthesameorientationaswhenyouscribeditandinstallshimsuntilitislevelandcenteredintheopening.Driveafewfinishnailsthroughthesidejambsintotheroughframe.Alsodriveafewnailsthroughthesilljamb.Mosttrimcarpentersdonotdrivenailsintotheheadjamb.

Insulatebetweenthejambframeandtheroughframewithspray-inpolyurethanefoam.Lookforminimal-expandingfoamlabeled“windowanddoor”anddon’tsprayintoomuch.Letthefoamdryforahalfhourorsoandthentrimofftheexcesswithautilityknife.Tip:Protectthewoodsurfacesneartheedgeswithwidestripsofmaskingtape.

Removethemaskingtapeandcleanupthemessfromthefoam(thereisalwayssome).Installcasemolding.Weusedpicture-frametechniquestoinstallfairlysimpleoakcasing.

InstallingPrehungInteriorDoors

Installprehung interiordoorsafter the framingworkis complete and thewallboard has been installed. If theroughopening for the door has been framed accurately,installingthedoortakesaboutanhour.Standard prehung doors have 4-1/2"-wide jambs and

aresizedtofitwallswith2×4constructionandhalf-inchwallboard.Ifyouhave2×6constructionorthickerwallsurfacematerial,youcan specialorder adoor tomatch,oryoucanaddjambextensionstoastandard-sizeddoor(seeTip,page182).Onedrawbacktoprehungdoorsisthattheyfrequently

are hollow-core doors, which means that they consistmostlyofacoupleofthinlayersofveneerthatsandwichanetworkofcardboardspacers.Thisisnotnecessarilyaproblem except when you need to shorten the door—acommonsituationinbasements.

Prehunginteriordoorsareagoodchoiceforbasementsbecausethey’refasttoinstallandusuallyratherinexpensive.

HowtoShortenaHollowcoreDoor

Drawastraightcuttinglineatthebottomofthedoor,notthetop.Scorealongthelinewithautilityknifeandthencutalongthelinewithacircularsawandstraightedgeguide.

Striptheveneerfromtheframerailwithachisel.Ifyoucutthroughtheframeandthetopofthedoorstillcontainsaframe,testittoseehowsturdyitis.Ifthereismorethan1/2"ofrailstillinthedooryoucangoaheadandrehangthedoorintheframe.

Applywoodgluetotheframerailoncetheveneerisremovedandinserttherailintothetopofthehollowdoor.Adjustsotherailisflushalongthetopandletthegluedrybeforerehangingthedoorinthejambs(whichyouwillalsoneedtotrim).

HowtoInstallaPrehungDoor

Unpackyourdoorandremoveanybracesthatarestapledtothejambtokeepthedoorfromswinginginthejambduringtransit.

Setthedoorintheframedopeningwiththedoorclosed.Shiftitsoitiscenteredsidetosideandthejambsareflushwiththewallsurface.Checkforplumbbyplacingalevelonthehinge-sidejamb.Shimasnecessaryandthenopenthedoor—thepressurefromtheshimsshouldholdthedoorinplace.

Anchorthehinge-sidejambwith8dcasingnailsdriventhroughthejambandshimsandintotheroughframe.Ifthejambsaremadeofhardwoodsuchasoak,drillpilotholesforthenails.

Drivenailsnearthebottomhingeandthenthemiddle,ifyourdoorhasthreehinges.Makesuretodrivethroughshims.Ifyoudrivenailsawayfromtheshimsthejambsmaybowoutward.

Double-checkthejambonthestrikeplatesidetomakesureitisplumbandflushwiththewallsurface,andthennailittotheframing,nailingthroughtheshimsasyoudidonthehingejamb.

Driveafewnailsthroughpilotholesinthecenterofthedoorstopforreinforcement.Locatethenailssotheygothroughshims.

JambExtensions

Ifyourwallsarebuiltwith2×6studs,you’llneedtoextendthejambsbyattaching1"-thickwoodstripstotheedgesofthejambafterthedoorisinstalled.Useglueand4dcasingnailswhenattachingjambextensions.Makethestripsfromthesamewoodasthejamb.

Attachthepreattachedcasemoldingstotheframingmemberswith4dfinishnails.Setthenailheads.Fillallnailholeswithwoodputtyandthenpaintorstain.Useanailsettorecessthenailheads.Installalatchset(seenextpage).

HowtoInstallaLatchSet

Alatchsetisaninteriordoorknobsetwithalatchandstrikeplate.Itisinstalledindoorsthatarenotintendedtobelocked.Alatchsetwithalockingmechanismiscalledalockset.

Insertthelatchboltandlatchplateassemblyintotheholedrilledintheedgeofthedoorandfastentheplatetothedoor.Makesurethecurvedsideoftheendofthelatchboltisfacingtowardthedoor.Thedooredgeusuallyispremortisedsotheplateisflush.Ifitisnot,you’llneedtocutashallowmortisefortheplatewithawoodchisel.

Insertthespindleattachedtooneoftheknobsthroughthesame-shapedholeinthelatchbolt.Holdtheknobagainstthedoorandslidetheotherknobinplacesothespindlefitsintothespindleholeinthesecondknob.

Insertthelongpostscrewsintothescrewopeningandthreadthemintothescrewholesintheoppositeknob.Tightenthemtodrawthetwohalvesoftheknobsettogether.Donotovertighten.

Positionthestrikeplateinthemortiseinthejamb(cutonewithachiselifyourjambhasnomortise).Makesurethelatchboltandtheholeinthestrikeplatearealigned.Attachthestrikeplatetothejambwiththescrewprovidedbythemanufacturer.

InstallingPocketDoors

Pocket doors are a space-saving alternative totraditional hinged interior doors. Swinging doors canmonopolizeupto16squarefeetoffloorspaceinaroom,which iswhypocketdoorsareaperfectchoicefor tightspaces, like small bathrooms. Installed in pairs, pocketdoors can divide large rooms intomore intimate spacesandcanstillbeopenedtousetheentirearea.Pocketdoorhardwarekitsgenerallyareuniversaland

can be adapted for almost any interior door. In thisproject, the framekit includesanadjustable track, steel-clad split studs, and all the required hanging hardware.Thelatchhardware,jambs,andthedooritselfareallsoldseparately.Pocketdoor framescanalsobepurchasedaspreassembled units that can be easily installed into aroughopening.Framingandinstallingapocketdoorisnotdifficultin

new construction or amajor remodel. But retrofitting apocketdoorinplaceofastandarddoororinstallingoneinawallwithoutanexistingdoor,isamajorprojectthatinvolves removing the wall material, framing the newopening,installingandhangingthedoor,andrefinishingthewall.Hiddenutilities,suchaswiring,plumbing,andheatingducts,mustbereroutedifencountered.The roughopening forapocketdoor isat least twice

thewidthofastandarddooropening.If thewall is load

bearing, you will need to install an appropriately sizedheader.Becausepocketdoors are easy toopenandclose and

requirenothreshold,theyofferincreasedaccessibilityforwheelchairorwalkerusers,providedthehandlesareeasytouse.Ifyouareinstallingapocketdoorforthispurpose,beawarethatstandardlatchhardwaremaybedifficulttouseforsomeindividuals.

Frametheroughopeningforthepocketdooraccordingtothemanufacturer’ssizinginstructions.Determinetheproperheightfortheoverheadtrackanddriveanailateachsideofthedooropening.Leavethenailheadsprotrudingslightlysoyoucansupportthetrackonthemtemporarily.

Cuttheoverheadtracktolengthaccordingtothewidthofthepocketdoor.Thewoodenportionofthetrackshouldbepremarkedwithcuttinglinesforstandarddoorsizes.Themetalpartofthetrackiscutshorterthanthewoodpart(here,by1-3/8").Attachtheendbracketstothetrackafterthetrimcutsaremade.

Positiontheoverheadtrackintheframedopening,restingtheendbracketonthenailsdriveninstep1fortemporarysupport.Centertheassemblyandsecureitbydriving8dcommonnailsthroughthenailingholesinthebrackets.

Attachthesplitstudsintheframedopening.Splitstudsarethesecrettopocketdoors.Theyhaveanopencenterthatallowsthedoortopassthrough.Becausetheyarereinforcedwithsteeltheycanperformstructuralbearingcomparabletoasolidwoodstud.Nailthesplitstudstothewoodenpartoftheoverheadtrack.

Fastensplitstudstothefloorbynailingthroughthebottomplateintothesubfloor.Snapchalklinesalignedwiththefrontandbackofthesoleplateintheframedopeningasguidance.

Fastenrollingbracketstothetopofthedoorfollowingthespacingrecommendedbythedoormanufacturer(usuallyacoupleofinchesinfromeachend).Attachwallcoveringsaroundtheframedopening,makingsureyourfastenersarenotlongenoughtoprotrudeintothepocket.Tip:Paintorstainthedoorbeforehangingit.

Hangthedoorbypressingthebracketupintothetri-wheeledhangersintheoverheadtrackandthensnappingthelockarmoverthehanger.Ifyouhavenotinstalledfloorcoveringyet,dosobeforeproceedingtothetriminstallation.

Attachafull-widthdoorjambforthedoortocloseagainst.Nailthejambtotheframedopeningstudwith8dcasingnails.

Attachsplitjambstothesideoftheframedopeninghousingthedoor.Maintainagapof3/16"betweenthedoorandtheinsideedgesofthesplitjambs.

Installsplitheadjambswithcountersunkwoodscrews.Thisallowsyoutoeasilyremovetheheadjambifthedoorneedstobereplacedorremovedforrepair.

Attachthelatchandpullhardware,whichisusuallysuppliedwiththedoor.Alsoattachdoorguidehardwareatthewallopeningtohelptrackthedoor.Fillnailholesandfinishthejambsandwalls.

InstallingBifoldDoors

Bifolddoorsprovideeasyaccess to a closetwithoutrequiringmuchclearanceforopening.Mosthomecentersstock kits that include two pairs of prehinged doors, aheadtrack,andallthenecessaryhardwareandfasteners.Typically,thedoorsinthesekitshavepredrilledholesforthe pivot and guide posts. Hardware kits are also soldseparately for customprojects.There aremany typesofbifold door styles, so be sure to read and follow themanufacturer’sinstructionsfortheproductyouuse.

HowtoInstallBifoldDoors

Cuttheheadtracktothewidthoftheopeningusingahacksaw.Inserttherollermountsintothetrack,thenpositionthetrackintheopening.Fastenittotheheaderusingpanheadscrews.

Measureandmarkeachsidejambatthefloorfortheanchorbracketsothecenterofthebracketalignsexactlywiththecenteroftheheadtrack.Fastenthebracketsinplacewithflatheadscrews.

Checktheheightofthedoorsintheopening,andtrimifnecessary.Insertpivotpostsintopredrilledholesatthebottomsandtopsofthedoors.Insertguidepostsatthetopsoftheleadingdoors.Makesureallpostsfitsnugly.

Foldonepairofdoorsclosedandliftintoposition,insertingthepivotandguidepostsintotheheadtrack.Slipthebottompivotpostintotheanchorbracket.Repeatfortheotherpairofdoors.Closethedoorsandcheckalignmentalongthesidejambsanddownthecenter.Ifnecessary,adjustthetopandbottompivotsfollowingthemanufacturer’sinstructions.

InstallingWalkoutPatioDoors

A walkout basement without a patio door seemsincomplete.Yetmanyhomeswithdirectaccess into thebasement do not take full advantage of the feature. Asliding or swingout patio door allows several times theamountofnaturallightintoaroomthatasingledoorletsin,evenifthesingledoorhasalargebrightpanel.Ifthereis apatioordeckon theexterior sideofyourbasementdoor, enlarging the door will make moving guests andsupplies through the doorway much easier and morecomfortable.Whenchoosinganewpatiodoor,you’llneedtodecide

between models with hinged doors that swing out andclosetogetheroroneswithslidingdoorpanels.Swingingdoorstendtorequirelessmaintenancethanslidingdoors,and they offer better security. Sliding doors are a goodchoiceifventilationisoneofyourrequirements,becausetheamountofairtheyletiniseasytoregulate.Youcanalsoleaveaslidingdooropenwithoutthewindcatchingitandcausingittoslamorbreak.Enlarging a door opening requires that you make

structural changes to your house, so it almost alwaysrequiresabuildingpermit.Duringconstructionyouwillneedtoprovidetemporarysupporttoreplacethebearingbeing done by the wall studs you’ll need to cut. Andwhenyouinstallthenewdoor,theframedopeningmust

haveasubstantialheader.Checkwithyourlocalbuildingdepartment for the header requirements. Becausebasement ceilings may be shorter than eight feet, youmay need to use a header that’s fabricated fromengineeredbeamstomeet the loadbearingrequirementswithintheavailablespace.

Replacingasingledoorwithaslidingpatiodoorisagreatwaytoaddlighttoawalkoutbasementandcreateaninvitingentrywayintoyourhome.

HowtoInstallaPatioDoor

Buildatemporarysupportwall.Usedoubled2×4s(or4×4s)forthetopplateandsupportposts.Thewallshouldextendatleast2ft.pasttheplanneddooropeningineachdirectionandcannotbemorethan24"awayfromthebearingwall.Securethesupportwalltothefloorandtotheceiling.

Removetheolddoorandthewallcoveringsintheprojectarea.Iftherearelightswitchesorreceptaclesinthedemolitionarea,shutofftheirpowersupplyatthemainservicepanelandthenremovecoverplates.Toremovetheolddoor,takeoffthecasemoldingandthencutthroughthenailsbysawingbetweenthejambsandtheframewithareciprocatingsawandbi-metalblade(inset).

Relocatewiringelementssuchasswitchesandreceptaclessotheyaresafelyoutsidethenewdoorarea.Youwillneedanelectricalpermitforthisandpossiblyanon-siteinspection.Ifyouarenotexperiencedwithhomewiring,hireanelectricianforthispartofthejob.

Removewallstudsintheprojectarea.Iftheyaredifficulttoremove,cutthemthroughthecenterwithareciprocatingsawfirst.Watchoutfornailsdriveninthroughtheexteriorside.

Frametheroughopeningsoitissizedaccordingtothedoormanufacturer’srecommendation.Installthenewkingstudsifneededandtheninstallthejackstuds.

Installthenewheaderbydriving16dnailsthroughthekingstudandintotheendsoftheheader.Youcanmakeyourownstructuralheaderbysandwichingastripof1/2"plywoodbetweentwopiecesofdimensionallumber(inset).Assembletheheaderwithconstructionadhesiveand10dnailsor2-1/2"deckscrews.Youcanalsopurchaseanengineeredheader.

Cutthroughtheexteriorwallmaterials.Youcaneithermarkthecornersoftheframedopeningbydrivinganailoutfromtheside,orsimplyusetheframedopeningasguidanceforyourreciprocatingsaw.Alsocutthroughthesoleplateattheedgesoftheopeningsothecutendisflushwiththejackstudface.

Liftthedoorunitorframeintotheopening,withahelper.Testthefit.Tracetheedgesofthepreattachedbrickmoldontotheoutsidewall,orplaceapieceofbrickmoldnexttothedoorandtracearoundtheperimetertoestablishcuttinglines(inset).Removethedoor.

Cutalongthebrickmoldcuttinglineswithasawsettoacuttingdepthequaltothethicknessofthesidingandthewallsheathing.Finishthecutsatthecornerswithahandsaw.Thoroughlyvacuumthefloorinthedooropening.

Sealtheframedopeningbyinstallingstripsofbuildingpaperorself-adhesiverubberflashingproduct.Makesurethatthetopstripoverlapsanyseamsyoucreate.Ifthepatiodoorisexposed,attachdripedgemoldingtothetopoftheframedopening.

Applyabeadofexterior-ratedpaneladhesivetothedoorthreshold.Alsoapplyadhesivetothebacksurfaceofthepreattachedbrickmoldorthenailingflange(whicheveryourdoorhas).

Setthedoorinpositionsothebrickmoldornailingflangeisflushagainsttheoutsideoftheframedopening.Centeritintheopening,sidetoside.Tackthedoornearthetopofeachsideandthencheckwithalevel.Installshimswherenecessarysothedoorisplumb.Re-hangthedoorintheframe,ifithasbeenremoved.

Fillthegapsaroundthedoorwithminimalexpandingfoamorwithlooselybackedfiberglassinsulation(foammakesabetterseal).Patchthewallandattachcasemolding(seepages194to195).Ifyourdoordoesnothavepreattachedbrickmold,cutandattachmoldingontheoutside.

InstallingMolding

Thetermtrimreferstoallofthemoldingsthatdressup walls and ceilings, hide gaps and joints betweensurfaces, and adorn window and door frames. As adecorating tool, trim lends a sculptural quality tootherwiseflatsurfacesandcanhaveadramaticeffectonanyroominthehouse.Workingwithtriminvolvesafewspecific cuts and techniques, but once you learn them,youcaninstallalmostanytype.Crownmoldingdecoratestheintersectionofwallsand

ceilings. Most crown molding is sprung, meaning it isinstalled at an angle to its nailing surfaces, leaving ahollow space behind it. It can be builtup with severalstylestocreatecustomlooks.Inadditiontowood,crownmolding can be made with plastic polymers, often inornate,one-piecestyles.Casing is trim that covers the edges of door and

windowjambs.Picturerailisatraditionalmoldingthatinstallsparallel

tocrownmoldingandhasaprotrudingroundededgethatholds hooks for hanging pictures. Similarly, a chair railrunshorizontallyalongwalls,thoughataheightof30to36inchestoserveasaborderforwallpaperorwainscot,or as a transition between different paint colors. Bothchairandpicturerailareinstalledlikebaseboard.Baseboardcoversthebottomsofwallsalongthefloor.

Styles range from single-piece to builtup versions thatincludeabasecapandabaseshoeinstalledatthefloor.Base shoe is small, typically rounded molding that isflexibleandcanfollowcontoursinthefloortohidegapsleftbythebaseboard.Toavoidproblemsdue to shrinkageafter installation,

stack the trimin theroomwhere itwillbe installedandallow it to acclimate for several days. Apply a coat ofprimeror sealer toall sidesofeachpiece,and let itdrythoroughly before installing it.Youmay also choose topaintorstainthetrimbeforeinstallingit.Attachwood trimwith finishnails,whichhave small

heads that you drive below the surface using a nail set.Nailsformosttrimaresize6dorsmaller,dependingonthe thickness of the trim and the wall surface. At aminimum, nails should be long enough to penetrate theframingbyat least3/4";heavier trimrequiresnailswithmoreholdingpower.Usefinishscrewsforsecuringtrimtosteelstuds.Afterthetrimisinstalledandall thenailsareset,fill thenailholeswithwoodputty,andtouchuptheareaswithpaintorstain.

Trimmoldingssuchascasemoldingandbaseboardgivearoomasenseofcompletion.

HowtoInstallBaseboard

Measure,cut,andinstallthefirstpieceofbaseboard.Buttbothendsintothecornerstightly.Forlongerlengths,itisagoodideatocutthepieceslightlyoversized(upto1/16"onstripsover10ft.long)andspringitintoplace.Nailthemoldinginplacewithtwonailsateverystudlocation.

Cutthesecondpieceofmoldingoversizedby6to10"andcopecuttheadjoiningendtothefirstpiece.Fine-tunethecopewithametalfileandsandpaper.Dryfitthejoint,adjustingitasnecessarytoproduceatight-fittingjoint.

Maketheinsidecornerjoint.UseaT-beveltotransfertheproperangle.Cutthesecondpiece(coped)tolengthandinstallitwithtwonailsateachstudlocation.

Maketheoutsidecornerjoint.Test-fitthecuttoensureatightjoint(inset).Removethematingpieceoftrimandfastenthefirstpiecefortheoutsidecornerjoint.

Layoutanyscarfjointsbyplacingthepieceinpositionsothatthepreviousjointistightandthenmarkingthecenterofastudlocationnearesttheoppositeend.Settheangleofyoursawto30°andcutthemoldingatthemarkedlocation.

Nailthethirdpieceinplace,makingsuretheoutsidecornerjointistight.Cuttheendofthefourthpiecetomatchthescarfjointangleandnailitinplacewithtwonailsateachstudlocation.Addtheremainingpiecesofmolding,fillthenailholeswithputty,andapplyafinalcoatoffinish.

HowtoInstallDoor&WindowCaseMolding

Oneachjamb,markarevealline1/8"fromtheinsideedge.Thecasingwillbeinstalledflushwiththeselines.Note:Youcansettherevealatwhateverdimensionyouchoose,butmakesureit’sequalonalljambs.

Placealengthofcasingalongonesidejamb,flushwiththerevealline.Atthetopandbottomofthemolding,markthepointswherehorizontalandverticalreveallinesmeet.(Whenworkingwithdoors,markthemoldingatthetoponly.)

Make45°mitercutsontheendsofthemoldings.Measureandcuttheotherverticalmoldingpiecesusingthesamemethod.

Drillpilotholesspacedevery12"topreventsplitting,andattachtheverticalcasingswith4dfinishnailsdriventhroughthecasingsandintothejambs.Fordoors,cutthesidecasingssothebottomsbuttagainstthefinishedfloororaplinthblock.

Measurethedistancebetweenthesidecasings,andcuttopandbottomcasingstofitwithendsmiteredat45°.Ifthewindowordoorunitisnotperfectlysquare,maketestcutsonscrappiecestofindthecorrectangleofthejoints.Drillpilotholesandattachwithfinishnails.

Tip

Back-cuttheendsofcasingpieceswhereneededusingasharputilityknifetohelpcreatetightjoints.

Locknailthecornerjoints.Drillpilotholesanddrive4dfinishnailsthrougheachcorner,ordrivefinishingnailsthrougheachcornerwithapowernailer,asshown.Ifnecessary,driveallnailheadsbelowthewoodsurfaceusinganailset,thenfillthenailholeswithwoodputty.

Fillnailholesandpaintorstainthecasingstomatchtherestofthetrimintheroom.

BASEMENTROOMS

BasementRoomProjects

In this chapteryouwill see eightdifferentbasementrooms being constructed. The goal of this chapter is toprovideyouwithageneraloverviewofwhateachtypeofroomrequiresandwhatsortsofproblemsyoucanexpecttoencounterifyouchoosetoaddasimilarroominyourbasement.Thesteps ineachprojectarecross-referencedbacktorelevantmaterialthathasalreadyappearedinthisbooksoyouknowwheretolookformoredetails.Theroomsthatareincludedinthisexerciseareamong

the most common basement room projects. A three-quarter bathroom project gives you new detailedinformation on how to run plumbing lines along withsequencing information on how to organize yourbathroom building project. A guest bedroom includes anewegresswindowandanaromaticcedar-linedcloset.Afamilyroomprojecthasadetailedfeatureoninstallingavent-free gas fireplace and building a custom surround.Thebasementlaundrycenterisprimarilyademonstrationof using stock cabinets to convert a utility space into aclean,efficientareaforlaundry.Next,you’llfindthebasicinformationforabasement

wine cellar, a home gym, and a built-in custom cherrybar.Inthischapter:

Bathroom

GuestBedroomFamilyRoomLaundryCenterWineCellarGymHomeOfficeBuilt-inBar

Ahalfbathorthree-quarterbath(asseenhere)isamuch-appreciatedadditiontoyourbasementifyouareaddingnewlivingspaceselsewhereonthebasementlevel.

Bathroom

Addingabathroomtoanunfinishedbasementcreatesa host of new opportunities for finishing the rest of thespace.Withaconvenientbathroom,youcanmuchmoreeasilyjustifyadownstairsrecreationroom,awinecellar,a home theater, or additional bedrooms. Many newhomes are pre-plumbed with available stub-outs forplumbing at the time the house is built. More likely,you’llneedtobreakuptheconcretefloortoinstallanewdrainandsupplyplumbing.Thisisexactlyasmuchworkasitsoundslike,butwithajackhammerandsomehelp,itismanageable.Becausehorizontalplasticpipescannotbeencased in

concrete,theymustbelaidinthegranularfillbeneaththeconcrete basement floor. Possible locations for thebathroom, therefore, are limited by how close themainsewerlineistothefloorsurfacewhenitmeetsthemaindrain stack. Check local codes for other specificrestrictionsinyourarea.Planaheadforthisproject.Onceyoucutintothemain

waste vent, there can be no drainage in the house untilyouhavefully installed thenewbranch linesandsealedthejoints.Makesureyouhaveextrapipeandfittingsonhand.Sawingandjackhammeringconcrete(you’llhavetodo

thistorunthenewpipeline)produceslargequantitiesof

dust.Use plastic sheeting to block off other portions ofthebasement,andwearapprovedparticulatedustmasks.Onceyou’vegottenpast the chore of runningplumbinglines,equippingabathroominthebasementinvolvesthesameworkasaddingoneanywhereelseinthehouse.

Ourdemonstrationbathroomincludesashower,toilet,andpedestalsinkarrangedinalinetosimplifytrenching.A2"drainpipeservicesthenewshowerandsink;a3"pipeservicesthenewtoilet.ThedrainpipesconvergeataY-fittingjoinedtotheexistingmaindrain.Thetoiletandsinkhaveindividualventpipesthatmeetinsidethewetwallbeforeextendingupintotheattic,wheretheyjointhemainwaste-ventstack.

HowtoPlumbaBasementBath

Marktheproposedlocationofthebasementbathroomonthebasementfloorusingtape.Includethewalls,wetwall,andfixturelocations.Theeasiestconfigurationistoinstallallthefixturesagainstthewetwall,whichwillcontainthewatersupplyandvents.Thedrainlinesshouldrunparalleltothewetwallinthemostdirectroutetothemainwaste-ventstack.Markthedrainlinelocation(typicallyaround6"outfromthewetwall).

Cutouttheareaaroundthemainstack.Useaconcretesaworacircularsawwithamasonrybladetoscorea24×24"squarecuttinglinearoundthewaste-ventstack.Thecutshouldbeatleast1"deep.

Removeconcreteanddirtaroundthemainstack.Usingacoldchiselandhandmaul,strikealongthescoredcuttinglinestochipouttheconcretearoundthemainsoilstack.Ifnecessary,breakuptheconcretewithinthesquaresoitcanberemoved.Takecarenottodamagethepipe.Excavatewithinthesquaretodeterminethedepthofthesewerlinewhereitmeetsthemainstack.

Excavatethedrainlinetrench.Enclosetheworkareawithplasticsheetingtoprotecttherestofthehousefromconcretedust.Useachalklinetolayouta24"-widetrenchcenteredoverthenewbranchdrainlocation.Scorealongthelineswithaconcretesaworacircularsawwithamasonryblade.

Useajackhammertobreakuptheconcreteinthetrench,takingcarenottodamageanyoftheexistingplumbinglines.Weargloves,eyeandearprotection,andadustmask.Removetheconcretefordisposal.Removedirt(technicallycalledgranularfill)fromthetrench,startingatthemainwaste-ventstack.

Createaflat-bottomedtrenchthatslopestowardthemainstackat1/4"perft.Thesoilwillholdupthedrainlines,soitisimportanttocreateanevensurface.Useahandtampertotampdownthesoilifithasbeendisturbed.Tapea1"spacertotheendofa4-ft.leveltocreateahandymeasuringtoolforcheckingtheproperslope.Setthesoilasidetouseforbackfill.

Cutthedrainlineormainstack(dependingonhowdeepthedrainlineis)usingareciprocatingsaw(orasnapcutter).Supportthemainwaste-ventstackbeforecutting.Usea2×4andducttapeforaplasticstack,orriserclampsforacast-ironstack.Ifcuttingthehorizontaldrainline,cutascloseaspossibletothestack.

Cutintothestackabovethecleanout,andremovethepipeandfittings.Wearrubbergloves,andhavealargeplasticbagandragsready,asoldpipesandfittingsmaybecoatedwithsewersludge.Rememberthatnowastewatercanflowinthehousewhilethepipesarecutopen.Turnoffthewateranddraintoiletstopreventaccidentaluse.

CutandtestfitanewcleanoutandlongsweepTYcomboassembly,dry-fittingittothedrainstackandthehorizontaldrainlinetothestreet.Makeanyneededadjustmentsandthensolvent-gluethefittingsandnewpipeintoasingleassembly.

Cleantheoutsideoftheoldpipesthoroughlyandapplyprimer.Alsoapplyprimerandsolventgluetothefemalesurfacesoftheunionfittingsintheassembly.Slidethefittingassemblyovertheprimedendsofthedrainstackandthedrainlineatthesametime.Thisrequiresalittlebitofplayinoneorbothofthelinessoyoucanmanipulatethenewassembly.Ifyourexistingpipeswillnotmoveatall,you’llneedtouseabandedcouplingonthedrainstacktosealthegap.

Cutandfitthecomponentsofthenewdrainlineonepieceatatime,startingatthestack.Usestringsorboardstooutlinethewetwall,soventplacementiscorrect.Drainlinesundergroundmustbeaminimumof2".Use3×2"reducingYstotietheshowerdrainlineandthesinkdrainlineintothetoiletdrainline.Installverticaldrainandventlinesthatarelongenoughtoprotrudewellabovethelevelofthefinishedfloor.

Checkforleaksbypouringwaterintoeachnewdrainpipe.Ifthejointsappearsound,contactyourbuildingdepartmentandarrangeforyourinspection(youmustdothispriortocoveringthepipes).Plugthepipeopeningswithragstopreventsewergasfromescaping.Note:Somemunicipalitiesrequireanairtestaswell.

Backfillaroundthepipeswiththesoildugfromthetrench.Mixandpournewconcretetocoverthetrench,andtrowelsmooth.Allowtheconcretetocureforthreedays.Somemunicipalitiesmayrequirethatisolationmembranebewrappedaroundverticalpipeswheretheywillbesurroundedbyconcrete—checkwithyourlocalinspector.

Buildthewetwallfrom2×6lumber.Thesillplateshouldbepressuretreated,buttheothermembersmaybeSPF.Notchthesillplatesotheventpipescleariteasily.Usemasonryanchorsorconcretenailsandapowder-actuatednailertoattachtheplate.

Run2"ventpipesthroughnotchesinthestuds.AssemblewithventTand90°fittings.The2"pipesarelargerthanrequired,butusingthesamesizeasthedrainlineseliminatestheneedforreducingfittingsandmakesforlesswaste.The90°fittingsaretypicallylessexpensivethantheventelbows.

Routetheventpipetoapointbeneathawallcavityrunningfromthebasementtotheattic.Or,ifthereisanotherventlinecloserthatyoucantieinto(notverylikely),goaheadanddothat.

Runventpipeupthroughthefloorsaboveandeitherdirectlyoutthroughtheroofortieittoanotherventpipeintheattic.Removesectionsofwallsurfaceasneededtoboreholesforrunningtheventpipethroughwallplates.Feedtheventpipeupintothewallcavityfromthebasement.Wedgetheventpipeinplacewhileyousolvent-gluethefittings.Supporttheventpipeateachfloorwithplasticpipehangersinstalledhorizontally.Stufffiberglassinsulationintoholesaroundpipes.Donotreplaceanywallcoveringsuntilyouhavehadyourfinalinspection.

Installthewatersupplyplumbing.Comparedtothedrain-ventplumbing,thiswillseemremarkablyeasy.

Soldering

Use caution when soldering copper. Pipes andfittings become very hot and must be allowed to coolbeforehandling.

HowtoBuildaBasementBathroom

Framethenewwallsusingpressuretreatedsoleplates.Ifwallswillcontainadditionalplumbing,buildthemfrom2×6stock.

Installframingforthebathroomdoor(seepages134to135).Foreconomy,a30"-wideprehunginteriordoormakessense,butifyouwanttoconservespaceconsiderinstallingapocketdoor(pages184to186).Theyarefairlycommonforbathroomapplications.

Install12/2NMsheathedcabletosupplypowerforadedicated20-ampsmallappliancecircuit.Mostcodeshavespecificrequirementsforspacing.ThecircuitmusthaveGFCIprotection.YoucanwireitwithindividuallyprotectedGFCIreceptaclesorinstalla20-ampGFCIbreakerinthemainservicepanel.Ifyoudonothaveexperiencewithhomewiring,hireaprofessional.

Wireceilinglightsandanywalllightsforalightedmedicinechest.Recessedcanisterlightsareagoodchoiceforbasementsbecausetheydon’tprojectdownintotheroom.Haveallwiringinspectedandapprovedbeforeyoucloseupthewalls.

Addventilation.Basementventsrequirepoweredventfansthatcanbewall-mountedorceilingmounted(seepages52to55).Theductworkforthefanexhaustisnormallyroutedoutthroughaholeintherimjoistofthehouse.Ifthebathroomcontainsashowerorbathtub,theductmustterminateoutdoors.Ifitisonlyahalfbathsomecodesallowyoutoventintoanattic.

Installfloorcoverings(pages92to122).Here,abedofthinsetmortarisbeinglaidfortexturedporcelainfloortiles.Themortarbedusuallycanbeapplieddirectlytotheconcretefloor.

Trimfloorcoveringmaterialstofitarounddrainpipesinthefloor,suchasthetoiletdrainstub-outseenhere.Completethefloorcoveringinstallation.

Installtheshowerpanaccordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions.Somearesetintoabedofmortarormasticwhileothersarefastenedtothewallframing.Trimthedrainpipetotherecommendedheightfirst(bottomphoto)andmakealldrainconnections.

Installshowersupplypipesandmakehookupstothefaucetbody.Note:Theeasiestshowerstallstoinstallarefreestanding,butkitsandtileboardunitsthatareinstalledinframedalcovesarecheaper.Readthedirectionsthatcomewithyourstalltoseeiftheyrecommendinstallingpanels,suchascementboard,asbackerbeforeyouinstalltheshower.

Installtheshowerenclosurekitormakeyourcustomshowersurroundwithtileboard.

Installceilingcoverings(seepages160to166).Whilethereareadvantagestoinstallingasuspendedceilingoracoustictileceilingthat’seasytoremoveforaccess,mold-resistantwallboardiseconomical,paintable,andhasafinishedroomfeelthattheothertypeslack.

Installwallcoverings(seepages142to159).Donotusestandardwallboard.Usemold-resistantwallboardorcementboardthroughout.Donotinstallavaporbarrierbehindthewallboard.

Attachanyotherwall-mountedfixtures,suchasthepedestalsinkbeinghungonamountingplateabove.Doalloftheworkrequiringaccesstowallorceilingstudcavitiesbeforeyouinstallthewallcoverings.Anddon’tneglecttohaveinspectionsdone.

Coverseamsandfillholesinthewallsandceilingwithfiberglasswallboardtapeandjointcompound(seepages152to155).Sandthecompoundsmoothandapplyacoatofwallboardprimer.

Finishmakingthesupplyanddrainhookupsforthelavatory.Addfaucetstoallfixturesandtestthem.

Installthetoiletaftertrimmingtheclosetdrainpipetothecorrectheight.Hookupthewatersupplytothefillvalveandthentesttheoperation.Draintimescanbeabitslowerinbasements,andflushesmaybeweakenedslightlybytheshallownessofthedrainlineslopes.

Paintthewallsandceilingusingapaintwithamold-resistantadditive.Painttheceilingfirst.Forbathrooms,chooseawashable,semiglosspaint.

Hangtheentrydoorandinstalltrimaroundthedooraswellasabaseboardtrim(seepages192to195).Youmayfinditeasiertopaintorfinishthedoorandtrimbeforeinstallation.

Installmirrors,medicinecabinets,towelrods,paperholders,andanyothermembersofthedecorativebathroomsuite.

Attachtrimkitsandescutcheonstolightfixturesandventfans.Addswitchplatesandreceptaclecovers,too.Testallfixtures.

Alargeclosetlinedwitharomaticcedarplusanegresswindowontheadjoiningwallmakethisbasementbedroomsafe,convenient,andcomfortable.

GuestBedroom

Abasementisagreatlocationforakid’sbedroomoraguestbedroom.Inthecaseoftheformer,bothyouandyour children will appreciate the space and the smallamountofseparationthatabasementbedroomprovides.Abasementalsomakesagoodlocationforaguestroomthat offers comforts and hospitality yet affords someprivacy foryourvisitors. Ifyoudon’texpectyourguestroom to get a lot of users, consider designing it as amultipurpose room that performs other duties, such asworkingasahomeofficeoracraftroom.Anyroomthathasaclosetorisattachedtoabathroom

isconsideredabedroom,regardlessofwhatyoumaycallit on your permit application.Your building departmentisespeciallyconcernedaboutbedrooms,anditiseasytounderstandwhy.Sleepingroomsareinusewhenweareinourmost vulnerable state, so theymust be set up forourprotection.That’swhyanybasementbedroommusthave an egress window that meets minimum size andaccessibility requirements (see pages 168 to 172). Asmoke detector is also required, and a radon detector ishighly recommended (radon levels are highest in thebasement). Bedrooms also must be comfortable. Inbasements that means providing ample heat, perhaps adehumidifierandawarmfloor.Carpeting isn’talwaysagreat choice for basements, but it is a very nice feature

for bedrooms and there are certain types thatwork fine(seepages110to121).Acloset is avery importantpartof anybedroom.As

you’ll see in the followingpages, it iseasy tobuildandequip.Note:Ifyouareinstallingaclosetlightbesuretomake itone thatusesbulbs thatdonotproducea lotofheat.Fluorescentbulbsarerequiredforclosetsinmanyareas.

Aworkingfloorplanshouldincluderoomdimensions,electricaloutletsandswitches,aswellaswindows,doorsandpermanentfeaturessuchasclosets.

HowtoBuildaGuestBedroom

Replacesmallbasementwindowswithatleastoneegresswindowthatislargeenoughtoallowanadulttoexit(seepages174to175).Codesareabsolutelyclearthatanyinhabitedroommusthaveegress.Enlargethewindowopening.

Installanewwindowthatmeetscoderequirementsforegress(seepage21)andinstallacode-compliantwindowwellontheexteriorside.

Buildallfourstudwalls,fasteningsoleplatestotheconcretefloorwithapowder-actuatedtool(seepages126to127).Wallsbuiltnexttoexteriorwallsshouldbestopped1/2"shortofthewalltopreventdirectcontact.Donotinstallvaporbarriers(seepages42to47).

Buildthepartitionwallstoframethecloset.Closetsshouldbeatleast32"deepfromfronttoback.Walk-inclosetsaredeeper.Thisclosetwillbeequippedwithalouveredbifolddoor,butitwouldalsobeagoodplacetoinstallapocketdoor(seepages184to187).

Installlightfixtureboxesintheroom’sceilingandcloset.Considerwhattypeofceilingyou’llbeinstallingwhenpositioningthefixtures.Recessedcanisterlightsworkwellinaroom.Inclosets,however,mostcodesrequirethatonlyfluorescentorcompactfluorescentbulbsareusedbecauseofthepotentialofincandescentbulbstooverheatinconfinedspaces.

Installtheroomwiringaccordingtocodesforminimumreceptaclespacingandswitchlocations(seepages56to57).BasementbedroomsdonotrequireGFCI-protectedreceptacles,buttheyareagoodideanonetheless.

Addheatingandcoolingasneeded(seepages48to51).Anelectricbaseboardheaterisafrequentchoiceforbasementrooms.Lookforamodelwithawall-mountedthermostat.While120-voltheatersareavailable,240-voltmodelsaremuchmoreenergyefficient.Youwillneedtoprovide240-voltserviceofcourse,usuallyina20-ampor30-ampcircuit,dependingonthenumberoffeetofheateryouinstall.

Installmold-resistantwallboardonallwalls,makingsurethebottomsofthepanelsareatleast1/2"abovethefloor(seepage148).Donotinsulateexteriorwalls.Youmayinsulateinteriorwallsforsoundproofing,however.Useunfacedfiberglassbattsorrigidfoamboards(fiberglassisabettersoundprooferbutrigidfoamislesshospitabletomold).Note:Havepreliminarywiringinspectionsdonebeforeclosingupwalls.

Linetheclosetwalls.Here,aromaticcedarpanelingisbeinginstalledontheclosetinterior,andstandardmold-resistantwallboardisgoingontotheroomsideofthewalls.Cedarisnaturallyresistanttomoisture-relatedrot.

Finishthewallsbytapingseamsandcoveringtapeandscrewheadswithjointcompound(seepages150to157).Applyacoatofprimerandthenpaint.

Installtheremainingelectricalfixturesandmakewiringhookups(seepages62to65).Theelectricbaseboardheaterbeinginstalledhere(seepages50to51)issitedbeneaththewindowbecausethatisthemostefficientlocationforaheater.Havefinalelectricalinspectionsperformed.

Installaceiling.Here,acoustictileisbeinginstalledoverwoodfurringstripsthathavebeenattachedtotheceiling(seepages164to165).Acoustictilehelpssoundproofthebedroomfromfoottrafficonthefirstfloor.Lookformold-resistanttiles,preferablywithvinylsurfacecoatings.

Installtrim,includingbaseboardtrimandwindowanddoortrim(seepages192to195).Maintainagapofatleast1/2"betweenbasetrimandbaseboardheaters.Prepaintorstainthetrimpiecesbeforeinstallationforaneaterjob.Egresswindowscanbetrimmedwithcustomjambsandcasing(seepages176to179).

Installclosetshelves.Closetorganizersmadefromvinylcoatedwirearegoodchoicesforbasementsbecausetheyallowmaximumaircirculationandwillnotcontributetomoldormildewproblems.

Installtheclosetdoor(seepage187).Abifolddoorwithlouversisagoodchoiceforbasementbedroomclosetsbecauseitallowsventilation.Louverscanbetime-consumingtopaint,however.Tosimplifythepainting,paintthedoorinawell-ventilatedroomusinganHVLPpaintsprayerbeforeinstallingit.

Installfloorcoverings(seepages92to121).Carpetisn’talwaysagreatchoiceforbasements,butifyouhavenothadsignificantwaterproblemsconsideritforabedroom,whereasoft,warmfloorisabigbenefit.Useamoisture-resistant,solidrubberpad.Carpetingwithsyntheticfibersisrecommended.

Thiscozyfamilyroomfeaturesavent-freegasfireplaceandabrandnewpatiodoorthatopensouttoalowerlevelwalkoutpatio.

FamilyRoom

The family room is the only type of room that isactually getting larger as a percentage of the totalfloorspace in today’snewhomes.Whetherweuse it forwatching movies, playing games, or just hanging outreading, the family room is an important place in anyhome.Awell-designedfamilyroomisspacious,hasgoodlight,featurescomfortablefloors,andiseasytoclean.Itcanincludeafewluxuriousfeaturessuchasafireplace,amini-kitchenwithsnackarea,ahometheatersetup,oradrybar.One importantconsiderationwhendesigninga family

roomis traffic flow.This isespecially important ifyourfamily roomwill have exterior access like thewalk-outpatio door seen here. Try to arrange the room so that alinedrawnfromthemainentrypointfromupstairstotheexterior door doesn’t split the room in two. Be a bitprotectiveofthefloorplansoyoucansetupfurnitureorarrange activities that can proceed without constantinterruptionsasotherfamilymembersmovefromdoortodoor.As you design your room, also take into account the

electronics that will be set up in your room. Installinghigh-speedcomputer/televisioncablelines,speakerwire,phone lines, and other forms of structured wiring iseasiesttodowhenthewallsareuncovered.

The family room seen here features a vent-free gasfireplace. It is not a significant heat source. If you areinterested in a fireplace that can provide supplementalheat,installadirect-ventgasfireplaceorawoodburningoneinstead.

Gasfireplacescomeintwotypesforhomeuse:directvent(left),whichmustbeexhaustedtothehomeexterior,andvent-free,whichdonotrequireventingbutmustbeinstalledineitheranexistingfireboxoraspeciallydesignedfireboxthatcirculatesairandexhaustinternally.Vent-freemodelsarenotcurrentlyallowedintheUpperMidwest,California,Alaska,Hawaii,orCanada.

HowtoBuildaFamilyRoomwithFireplace

Framethenewwallsfortheroom(seepages128to139).Here,anopenareainawalkoutbasementwithafinishedexteriorwallisbeingdividedintoasmallerfinishedspaceforafamilyroomwithdirectaccesstoapatio.

Installwiringcablesinthestudwalls(seepages162to165).Becausefamilyroomsnormallyincludeseveraltypesofelectronicdevices,consideraddingmultimediaoutletsforcoaxialcable,speakercables,andphone/high-speedDSLlines.Thesecanberunindividuallyornetworkedthroughadistributioncenter.

Installfixtureboxesforlightskeepingtheplannedceilingmaterialthicknessandinstallationmethodinmind(seepages62to65).Here,aboxisbeinginstalledfora6-ft.sectionofhalogentracklightingtoprovideadjustablelightingthatcanbefocusedonthefireplacemantel.

Frametheopeningforthefireboxaccordingtothemanufacturer’sdirectionsandminimumclearances.Becausethefireplacesurroundplannedforthisroomuses12×12"walltilearoundtheopening,weaddedfull-heightstudssotherequiredcementboardbackercanbeseamedwiththewallboardoverastud.Aheaderfortheopeningissupportedbyshortjackstudsatthesides.

Constructasupportplatformforthefirebox.Becausethefireboxwillbehousedinopenspaceontheothersideofthefireplacewall,wewereabletogetbywithasimplewoodplatformbuiltwith2×4sand3/4"plywood.

Securethefireboxplatforminthewallopeningbynailingorscrewingittothestudsattheedgesoftheopening.Somemanufacturersmayrequirethatyousecuretheplatformtotheflooraswell.

Installwallboardonceiling(seepage147).Whenwallboardingboththeceilingandthewalls,itisusuallyrecommendedthatyoudotheceilingfirstsotheverticalpanelscanbebuttedupagainsttheceilingtoprovidesomeextrasupport.Ifyouarehangingasuspendedortileceiling,wallboardthewallsfirst.

Cutcementboardintostripsequalinwidthtothedimensionofyourtiledsurroundandattachthemtothe2×4nailersborderingtheframedfireboxopening.Itisgenerallyagoodideatopredrillforcementboardscrews,especiallywithnarrowerstrips.

Installmold-resistantwallboardintherestoftheroom,keepingthebottomedgesatleast1/2"abovethefloor(seepage148).Ifyouhaveplannedyourfireboxframingproperly,allwallboardedgeswillfalloverstudsorcrossblocks.

Applyjointcompoundandfiberglassseamtapeoverseamsandcoverscrewheadswithcompound(seepages152to157).Sandthecompoundsmooth.

Primeandpainttheceilingandthewalls.Toboostthevisualinterestoftheceiling,weaddedsometexturetotheceilingpaintandapplieditwitha5/8"naproller.Theeffectismuchsubtlerthantheiconiccottagecheeseceilingofthe1960sand70s.

Applyamortarbedforthetilesurroundusinganotchedtrowel(a1/4"square-notchtrowelistypicalbutchecktherecommendationsonthethinsetpackagelabel).Applyonlyasmuchmortarasyoucantileinabout10minutes.Treatingeachlegofthesquaresurroundseparatelyisagoodstrategy.

Pressthesurroundtilesintothemortarbedandsetthembypressingwithashortpieceof2×4wrappedinasoftcloth.Mosttiles(12×12glasstilesinamosaicpatternareshownhere)havespacingnubscastintotheedgessosettingthegapsbetweentilesortilesheetsisautomatic.Ifyourtilesdonothavespacingnubs,useplastictilespacersavailableatyourtilestore.Letthethinsetmortardryovernightonceyou’refinishedsettingthetiles.Seepage92ifyouneedtocuttiles.

Applydark-tintedgrouttothetilesusingagroutfloat.Letthegrouthardenslightlyandthenbuffofftheresiduewithasoft,cleancloth.Formoreinformationongrouting,seepage95.

Beginaddingsurroundtrim.Here,1×4cherrycasingisbeingattachedtowallstudlocations.Thesidecasingsshouldbeslightlyoffthefloor(ifyouhavenotinstalledflooringyetaccountforthefloorcoveringthickness)andbuttedagainstthetilesurround.Ifyouhaveplannedproperly,therewillbewallstudsbehindthecasing.Note:Wechose1×4cherrybecauseitisattractive,butalsobecauseyoucanusuallybuyitdimensioned,planed,andsandedonallsidesatthelumberyard.Ifyouhavewoodworkingequipment,useanylumberyoulike.

Addbuilt-upheadcasing.Theheadcasingshouldoverhangthesidecasingsbyaninchorso.Weusedabuilt-uptechniquetoaddsomedepthandprofiletotheheadcasing.First,attachafull-width1×4tothewall.Then,installa1×3sotheendsandtopareflushwiththeendsandtopofthe1×4.Finally,installacherry1×2inthesamemanner.

Cutandinstallthemantelboard.Weusedanotherpieceof1×4cherrythesamelengthastheheadcasings,butifyouhaveaccesstowoodworkingtoolsconsiderathickerboardforalittlemorepresence.Or,face-gluetwo1×4stogether.

Finish-sandallthecherryandthenapplyalightwoodstain.Afterthestaindries,topcoatwithacherry-toneorlightmahoganywipe-onvarnishthatwillevenouttheunevencolorationtypicalwithcherry.Fillnailholeswithcherry-tintedwoodputty.

Setthefireboxforthefireplaceintothefinishedsurroundandcheckforlevel.Fastenittotheframingbynailingorscrewingthroughthenailingflange,dependingonthemanufacturer’srecommendations.

Sealthegaparoundthefireboxwithhigh-temperaturesiliconesealant.Donotuseordinarycaulkherebecauseitcouldmeltorevencatchfire.

Runnaturalgassupplypipetowithin18"orsoofthegasinletportonthesideofthefirebox.Attachastopcocktothesupplytube.Warning:Workingwithgaspipeandmakinggashookupsisverydangerousandinmanymunicipalitiesitmayonlybedonebyalicensedprofessional.Doingtheworkyourselfmayalsovoidthewarrantyonyourgasappliance.Itisstronglyrecommendedthatyouhireaprofessionalforthispartoftheproject.

Connectthefireplacetothegassupplywithaflexiblegasconnectortube,makingsuretousegas-ratedteflontapetolubricatescrewthreadsontheconnector.Restorethegassupplyandtestallconnectionswithleakdetectorspray(inset).

Installfloorcoverings.Snap-togetherlaminateplanksareeasytoinstallandingeneralagoodchoiceforbasementfamilyrooms(seepages96to99).Trimthelaminateplankstofitaroundthefireplacecasings.

Installbaseboardmoldings(seepages192to195),lightingtrimkits,andanyotherfinishingtrimsuchasdoorcasings(seepages192to195).Remembertoreadthevent-freefireplacemanualthoroughlyandfollowallsafetyprecautionsforoperation.Havetheunitinspectedannuallytomakesureitisstilloperatingproperly.

LaundryCenter

Manyoftheareaswherewedoourlaundrylacktwoimportant features: organization and lighting. Thisbasement laundry center is a self-contained built-in thatfunctionslikearoomwithinaroom,addingbothstoragespace and task lighting for what can otherwise be adisagreeable task. It is built from a base cabinet andbutcher block countertop on one side of a 24"-wide,seven-foot-tallstubwall,andabankofwallcabinetsontheothersideofthewall.Thecabinetsaredesignedtofitaboveawasheranddryercombo.Thestructureincludesaceilingwithlightfixturesmountedoverbothsides,andaswitchwiredintothestubwalltocontrolthelights.Thewalls are built from inexpensive wall sheathing and,along with the ceiling, are clad with easy-to-washtileboard that addsbrightnesswhile contrastingwith themaplewoodof thecabinets.Theedgesof thecenteraretrimmedwithclearmaple.If you are creating your built-in laundry center in a

room that did not previously house your washer anddryer,arrangeforandhaveinstalledthehookupsforbothappliances before you build. If you are not experiencedwithplumbingandwiring,hireaplumberandelectricianto run any new drain, supply, dryer vent, or electricalservicelines.Alsomakesuretoidentifypotentialsourcesfor electrical service to power the lights (in the version

seen here,we installed recessed canister lights over thecountertopandabovethewasheranddryer).

Somestockcabinetsandsomecarpentryskillsarethemaintoolsyouneedtoconvertabasementroomintoanefficientlaundrycenter.

InstallaRecessedWashingMachineBox

A recessed washing machine box not only makesyour laundry area neater, it reduces the chances ofdamaging supply connections. If the box includes anopening for thewashingmachinedrainhose, itmustbelocated near a utility sink so you can tie into the sinkdrainwitha standpipe (see right).Normally thehotandcoldhosebibs (faucets) in thewashingmachinebox tieintonearbysupplytubesfortheutilitysink.Butyoucanspliceintoanysupplylinesthatareconvenient.

Theframeworkforthislaundrycenterisa2-ft-wideby7-ft.-tallstubwall.Theironingareaisastandardbasecabinetwithabutcherblockcountertop,andthecenteriscoveredwithanL-shapedpanelcontainingtasklighting.Abankofwallcabinetsfitsoverthemachinelocations.

HowtoBuildaLaundryCenter

Frameandfinishlaundryroomwallsandthenattachthesoleplateforthepartitionwall.Locatethewallsothebasecabinet(here,36"wide)willfitbetweenthecladstubwallandtheroomwall.

Attachthecapplateandstudstofinishthestubwallframing.Thewallstudthatfitsagainstthebackwallshouldfalloverastudlocationforsturdyfastening.Ifitdoesnot,you’llneedtocutopenthewallandinstall2×4blockingbetweenstudstotieinto.

Installaswitchboxinthewallat48"hightohousetheswitchforthetasklights,ifyouwishtoincludethem.Runnonmetallicsheathedcablethroughholesinthestudsmakingsuretostapleitwithin8"ofthebox.Runcabletothepowersourcebutdon’thookitupyet.Runcablefromtheswitchtothejunctionboxorboxesinthetasklightingfixtures.

Installabasecabinet(36"wideasshown)betweenthestubwallandthecorneroftheroom.Anchorthecabinetbydrivingscrewsintoframingmembersoneachside.Forthemostpleasingresults,chooseabasecabinetthatmatchesthewallcabinetsyou’llbeinstallingoverthelaundrymachines.

Cutapieceofcountertoptofitandattachittothetopnailingstripsonthebasecabinet.Chooseamaterialwithanicesmoothsurfacethatiseasytoclean.Butcherblockisshownhere,butalessextravagantmateriallikepostformwilldo.

Attachastripof1/2"plywoodsheathingtothecornerwalltomakeaspacer/backerforthetileboardsurface.Drivewallboardscrewsatstudlocations.Applyafewbeadsofpaneladhesivetothebackofthepanelfirstforextraholdingpower.

Alsoattachplywoodsheathingtothestubwallframing.Makeacutoutforthelightswitchboxonthelaundrymachinesideofthestubwall.

Cutstripsoftileboardtofitthewallsurfaces,andattachthemwithpaneladhesive.Rubbackandforthoverthetileboardsurfacewithacleanragtosetthebond.Ifanytileboardsticksoutpastthewalledges,trimitoffwithautilityknife.

Mounttheupperwallcabinetssothecabinettopsareflushwiththetopofthestubwall.Youcantackatemporaryledgertothewalldirectlybelowthecabinetstosupportthemwhileyouinstallfasteners.Drivescrewsthroughthenailingstripsinthebacksofthecabinetsatwallstudlocations.Then,fastenthecabinettooneanotherwithafew7/8"screws.

Cutapieceofplywoodsheathingsoitwillfitoverthelaundryfoldingareaandthewallcabinets—thiswillhaveanLshapeinmostcases.Createenoughoverhanginfrontofthewallcabinetsthatyoucanmountsmallrecessedtasklightifyouchoose.Gluetileboardtotheundersideoftheceilingtomakeaclean,brightsurface.

Makecutoutsandmountthelightfixturetotheceilingpanelbeforeyouinstallit.Lookforlow-profilecanisterlightstofitthespace.Here,onelightispositionedoverthefoldingareaandtwoarerecessedabovethewallcabinets.Theyarewiredtogetherinseries.

Attachtheceilingpaneltothetopofthestubwallandtothewallcabinettops.Alsosecureittothetopofthebackerpanelinthecorner.

Makethewiringhookupsatthelightfixturesandattheswitch.Shutoffpoweratthemainservicepanelandconnectthepowerleadtoyourpowersource.Restorepowerandtestthelights.

Attachstripsof1×4hardwood(mapleisseenhere)toconcealtopgapsandcreateavisualbaffleforthelightcans.Youcanfindpremilledhardwoodatmostlumberyardsinstandarddimensions.

Attachhardwoodstripstocoverthefrontofthestubwall.Attachnarrowerstripstocovertheedgesofthebackerandtileboardinthecorner.Thisstripshouldrunfromthecountertoptotheundersideoftheceilingtrimstrip.

Installyourwasheranddryer.Front-loadingmodelsworkbestinthissituationbecausetheycreateconvenienthorizontalsurfaces.Buttoploaderswillalsofit.

WineCellar

Youcanbuildawinecellaranywhereinyourhome,butitmakesmostsenseinabasementwheretemperature,humidity, and light levels are easier to control. Whenstored in a dark, cool, well-ventilated area where thetemperature and relative humidity are fairly constant,wine improves with age. For the serious vinophile, asuccessfulwinecellarmustbeacontrolledenvironment.The temperature, humidity, and light levels need to bekeptwithinnarrowrangestosafeguardawinecollection.After the environment is established, the issues ofstorage, such as racking,management, and appreciationofthecollection,mustbeaddressed.Butifyoualsohopetouseyourwinecellar as a living space for tastingandcasual dining, all of this controlling of the environmentmust be balanced with the requirements for creating acomfortablehome.Wineracksarethebackboneofanywinecellar.Ifyou

areaskilledcarpenterorwoodworker,makingyourownwine racks is a fun exercise in designing and building.Butifyourambitionoutpacesyourexperience,lookintopurchasing and installing a modular wine rack system.Sold over the Internet and at design centers, thesesystems allow you to design and install custom wineracks that fityour space,but at a fractionof thecostofhiringaprofessionalcarpenter todo the job.Mostwine

rackwebsites have planning software so you can createtheexactdesignyouwant.

Basementsareideallocationsforwinecellars.Installingamodularwineracksystemisagreatwaytomakeyourcellarlooklikeaprofessionalinstallation.

HowtoCreateaWineCellar

Installwallsanddoorasinanyofthepreviousprojects.Ifyouareplanningawinecellarthat’sclimatecontrolled,insulatetheinteriorwalls.Donotinsulatewallsthatabutexteriorfoundationwalls(seepages46to47).

Installfloorcoverings(seepages92to121).Ceramicorporcelaintile,likethetravertinetileseenhere,isagreatchoiceforwinecellars,especiallyifithasanold-worldappearance.

Designyourwineracksystemandorderthecomponents.Typicalcomponentsyoucanchoosefromincludefull-heightrackswithaseparatecubbyforeachbottle;box-ordiamond-shapedracks;curvedracks;quarter-roundracks;cornerracks;rackswithtastingshelves,andmore.Openthecontainersandinspectthepartswhenthekitarrives.Makesurethereisnodamageandthatnothingismissing.

Thepackagewillincludecompleteassemblyinstructions.Baseyourassemblyonthese.Tobuildthearrangementshownhere,westartedwiththefull-heightrack,identifyingtheladder-shapedstandardsandorientingthemwiththebottomendsaligned.Thestandardsshouldbesetparallelonaflatsurface.

Attachspacerbarstothebacksoftheladdersattheprescribedrunglocationsusingfinishnailsorair-drivenbradnails.

WoodSelectionTips

Modularwinerackkits typicallyaresold in threeorfour wood species: cedar, redwood, red oak, andmahogany.Thespeciesyouselectwillhaveasmalleffectonpricing,butthedecisionisprimarilyanaestheticone.Westernredcedardoesnothaveanaromaticcedarscentbutisaclear,open-poredwoodthatproducesabeautifulmellow wood tone and does not require topcoating.Redwoodissimilartocedarbutabitdenserandlighterintoneandwithmorelimitedavailability.Redoakisharderand heavier and inmost cases is stained and topcoated.Mahogany varies quite a bit, based on the country oforigin(MalaysiaandthePhilippines,forexample).Itisaclassic, open-pore wood with straight grain and goodresistancetorot.

Lifttheladdersandspacerbarassemblysoitisupright.Insertintermediateladdersbetweentheendladdersyouhaveconnectedwiththespacerbars,followingthemanufacturer’srecommendedspacing.Attachtheintermediateladderstothefrontspacerbars(asshown),accordingtothemanufacturer’sinstructions.

Continuetobuildthestructurebyaddingthenextladder,repeatingsteps5and6.

Finishattachingthefinalfrontspacerbars,andthenmovetheunitintothedesiredplaceagainstthewall.Attachtheassemblytothewallusing2-1/2"screwsdriventhroughthebackspacerbars.Makesuretheassemblyislevelfirst,anddrivethescrewsatwallstudlocations(orusemasonryanchorsifwallsaremadeofconcreteorblock).

Assemblethenextmodularunitaccordingtotheinstallationinstructions.Positionitnexttothefirstunit,levelit,andattachittothewall.Somesystemsmaysuggestthatyouattachittothefirstunitaswellorthatyouinstallatrimpiecetoconcealthejointwheretheyareconnected.Continueinstallingmodularunitsintheselectedorder.

Attachthelastmodularunitaccordingtotheinstallationinstructions.Alsoinstallanytrimpiecestoconcealgapsbetweenunitsandbetweentheendunitandthewall.Mostwoodmodularracksystemsareeitherprefinishedordesignedtoremainunfinished.Beginloadingyourwinecollectionintotheracks.

CountertopWineRacks

Supplementyourlargecustomwinerackingwithafewsmallcountertopracks.Thisisespeciallyhandyifyouwishtosetasideaflightofwineforatastingparty.Smallrackslikethesearealsoeasyandfunprojectstobuildinyourshop.

Creating&UsingYourWineCellar

Startingwiththerightstructuresimplifiestheprocessofestablishingandmaintainingthenecessarytemperatureandhumidity inyourwinecellar.Choosea location foryourwine cellar thatmeets or can bemodified tomeetthefollowingrequirements.Wallsandceiling:Becausetheenvironmentinsidethe

wine cellar is deliberately manipulated to meet certainspecificrequirements,you’llwanttomakesuretheroomis well insulated. This not only allows you to controltemperatureandhumiditymoreprecisely,ithelpsyoudoit more efficiently. The walls should be insulated to aminimumofR-19,andtheceilingshouldbeinsulatedtoa minimum of R-30. All of the walls and the ceilingshould have a 6 mil polyethylene vapor barrier on thewarm side of the insulation. If thewine cellar is coolerthan the surrounding area of the house, a vapor barriershould go between the insulation and the rest of thehouse; if thewinecellar isborderedbyanexteriorwalldonotuseavaporbarrier.Flooring: Moisture-resistant surfaces, such as stone,

tile,orbrick,areideal.Stoneandtilefloorsshouldhaveahigh-friction coefficient so they don’t becometreacherous ifmoistureaccumulateson them.Hardwoodorcorkarealsoappropriate.Door: An exterior-grade door with weather stripping

andaplatesealkeepstheconditionedairinsidethewinecellar. Glass doors should, at a minimum, be doublepaned.

TEMPERATURE

Foracollectorofwine,themostimportantaspectofawine cellar is the temperature,which should be kept asconstant as possible and between 50°F and 55°F. Anyfluctuations should be very gradual because whenexposedtotemperatureswings,thecorkmaterialandthebottle expand and contract, which can damage the corksealandletoxygenintothebottle.Wine stored at higher temperatures ages faster than

wine stored at lower temperatures. Wine developscomplexityasitages,whichmeansthatslowerisbetter.The temperature in your cellar should not drop below50°F, however, or the wine may develop deposits andothersuspensions. Ifyouplan touse thecellaras livingspace,youwillprobablyneedtomakesomeconcessionson the relativelycool ideal temperatureso the roomcanbeenjoyedcomfortably.In large wine cellars, a cooling unit typically is

employedtomaintainoptimumtemperatures.Mostbeararesemblancetoaroomairconditioner,butinadditiontocoolingtheyalsoregulatehumiditylevels.Ifcoolingtheentire room isn’t practical, consider buying a winerefrigerator. Wine refrigerators are available in sizesdesigned toholdeverything fromsix toseveralhundredbottles.Somearequiteattractive,too.

Typicalwoodwineracksareconstructedfrommoisture-resistantwood,suchasredwood,westernredcedar,ormahogany.

Ventilation

A well-ventilated wine cellar is a pleasant place tospendtime,foryouandforyourwine.Odorsdevelopinpoorlyventilatedspace,andthoseodorsmaybeabsorbedbycorksandeveninfiltratethebottles.Youcanimproveventilation and air circulation by installing an exhaustfan.Poorventilationcandestroywineovertime.Addingan

exhaust fan safeguards your collection and makes thecellaramorepleasantplace.Exhaustfansareavailableinstylishlight/fancombinationproducts(asshownhere).

RELATIVEHUMIDITY

The relative humidity in a wine cellar should staybetween50and80percent,withtheideallevelbeing70percent.At lower humidity levels, corks can shrink andlet air into the bottles.Higher levels of humiditywon’tnecessarily harm the wine, but they do encourage thegrowthofmoldandmildewintheroom.

Wineshouldbestoredatatemperatureof50°Fto55°Fandahumiditylevelideallyaround70%.

LIGHT

Light, especially sunlight, can damage wine andcauseittodevelopunpleasantodors.Lowlevelsoflightare best, and incandescent or sodium vapor lights arebetter than fluorescent. Sparkling wines and wines inclear bottles are quite sensitive to light; wines in darkbottlesarelesssusceptible.Consider controlling the cellar’s lights with motion-

activated switches.The lightswill comeon themomentyou step into the room and turn offmoments after youleave.If your cellar has windows, block their light as

completely as possible. White roller shades block 80percentofthelightandheatgainfromwindows,sotheymake good first layers for window coverings. Top theroller shades with blackout draperies or louvered woodshutters,andyou’vegotawinningcombination.

VIBRATION

Vibration disturbs the sediment in wine, which canharmitovertime.However,unlessyourhomeisnexttoaracetrackorarailyard,it’sunlikelythatvibrationwillbeanongoingproblem.Itcertainlymakessensetosecureyour wine racks to the walls or floor to protect themduring earthquakes or other disasters, but if the worsthappens,it’sunlikelythatthedisruptionofsedimentwillbethebiggestproblemyouface.Remember, though, that sounds are vibrations, too.

Thewinecellarshouldbelocatedasfaraspossiblefrom,for example, a home theater equipped with surroundsoundorthepracticeroomforyourgarageband.Ifthesespaces have to be within close proximity, soundproofthemcarefully.

Gym

Ahomegymismorethanafewpiecesoflittle-usedexercise equipment stashed in a vacant room. Tomakethe leap tobeinganenjoyableworkout room,yourgymneeds tobe in a convenient, accessible spacewithgoodlighting, adequate ventilation, and comfortable flooring.Itshouldhaveadequateelectricalsupplyforastereoandother entertainment components, as well as poweredexercise equipment. It should be a pleasant space that’swiselyoutfittedtosuityourneeds.Thebasementisapopularlocationforhomegyms.If

you plan to build your gym in a basement, check theceilingheight.Theceiling shouldbeat least seven feet,but preferably eight feet high to provide enoughheadroomforequipmentandforstretching.Unless circumstances—and your budget—allow for

superior soundproofing, don’t force the gym to share acommon wall with an occupied bedroom.Working outcangetprettynoisy,whatwith theclankingofweights,thepoundingrhythmofmusic,or the televisioncrankedupsoitcanbeheardoverthewhirofthetreadmill.Choose a location large enough to accommodate the

equipment you own or plan to include, with plenty ofaccess so you can use it comfortably. Diagram yourpotential location and possible arrangements of yourequipment.Hereisalistofsomebasicequipmentandthe

spacerequiredforeach.

EquipmentSpaceRequirements•Treadmill:30sqft.•Single-stationgym:35sqft.•Freeweights:20to50sqft.•Bike:10sqft.•Rowingmachines:20sqft.•Stairclimbers:10to20sqft.•Skimachines:25sqft.•Multistationgym:50to200sqft.

Arelativelycoolatmosphereandenoughelbowroomtoworkoutandmakealittlenoisearetwoofthequalitiesthatmakebasementsgoodlocationsforhomegyms.

Lighting

A flattering lighting plan is an important part of ahome gym. Good lighting makes everyone look better.Looking good takes you several steps toward feelinggood,and,asweallknow,feelinggoodmakesiteasiertotakeonthechallengesoftheworld,includinganexerciseplan.Low-voltage track lights are especially good options

for a home gym because they generate pleasant,focusable light without producing as much heat asstandard track lighting. Itmaybeappropriate to includesome overhead fluorescent lights, but don’t limit yourlighting plan to those fixtures. Add some incandescentsideoruplights,too,tobalanceshadowsandthecoloroftheambientlight.

Installingplentyofmirrorswillenhanceavailablelightaswellasallowyoutomonitoryourformandposture.

Ventilation

Ifyourhomegymhasoperablewindows,ventilationshouldn’t be a big problem. If it doesn’t, mechanicalventilation will make the space more comfortable andpleasant. Installing an exhaust fan on a wall or in theceilingwill help removemoisture and unpleasant odorsfromtheair.Select a fan sized to provide adequate ventilation for

the gym’s square footage. According to The HomeVentilatingInstitute,theairinroomsotherthankitchensandbathrooms should be replaced at least six times perhour;thereplacementraterecommendedforakitchenisfifteen times an hour and eight times an hour forbathrooms.Theseare,ofcourse,minimums,andahomegym has unique ventilation needs. You might want todiscuss the project with a heating/ventilation/and airconditioning(HVAC)expertbeforeselectinganexhaustfan.

Flooring

Home gym floors have to be comfortable, durable,and easy to clean. Hardwood floors have some of thenecessarygiveandcleanupbeautifully,but theyhaveatendency to get scuffed, scratched, and damaged easily.Carpet offers a fairly forgiving and durable surface, butkeepingitcleancanbeachallengeinagym.Resilient flooring is one of the best options for floor

covering inahomegym.Rubber flooring isparticularlyappropriateinahomegym:it’seasyontheknees,simpletoclean,andtoughenoughtostanduptoharduse.Ifyourfloorcoveringisnotidealandchangingitisnot

an option, place large rubber antifatigue mats (you canbuythematbuildingcentersaswellasatflooringstores)incriticalareas.

Gymflooringshouldbecushionyenoughforcomfortyetfirmenoughthatthereisonlyminimalbounce.Rubberfloortilesareagoodchoice.

FitnessEquipmentforBasementGyms

Mostexperts agree that life’s too short and time tooprecious to deal with cheap equipment. And, while it’soften true that you get what you pay for, the mostexpensive products are not always the best. Researchequipmentonline, consult retailers, and talkwith fitnessexpertstodeterminewhatbestmeetsyourneeds.Populatingahomegymislargelyamatterofchoosing

equipment that can help you reach your goals. Sometypes of equipment help you build strength andmusclemass (resistance bands,weightmachines, freeweights);others help you improve cardiovascular fitness(treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes).Most oftoday’s professional trainers recommend building corestrength as well as doing cardiovascular and weighttraining.Diagram the placement of the equipment you plan to

include.Next,plantoplaceelectricaloutletsasnecessaryto serve not only the equipment you have but any youhopetoaddovertime.Equipmenttoconsider:

• Swiss (or stability) balls ($20 to $40) help youimprove core muscle strength, balance, andstability.

• Resistance bands ($10 to $20) come in differentstrengths, usually indicated by colors. These

bands help you lengthen, strengthen, and toneyourmuscles.

• Balance trainers ($50 to $120), such as wobbleboards and balance balls, help you develop corestrengthandbalancethatwillpreventinjuries.

• Medicine balls ($20 to $75) help you conditionyourabsandupperbody.

• Free weights (about $1 a pound) can be used inexercisesfortheentirebody.

• Weight benches ($100 to $500) can be fixed oradjustableandmayormaynothaverackstoholdweights or bars.They help you get into positionforavarietyoflifts.

•Weightmachines,alsocalledsingle-stationgyms,($200 to $3,000 and up) provide stations andweightsforstrengthtraining.Lookforaunitthatis designed to fit within the space you haveavailable and one you can add accessories to asyouprogressinyourtraining.

• Treadmills ($200 to $5,000 and up) come witheverybellandwhistleyoucanimagineandafewyou probably can’t.Whether or not you want aTVwithDVDplayerbuilt into thecontrolpanelis strictly apersonal issue,butother features areeasiertodefine.Youwantaunitthatrunsquietly.It needs tobedesigned toprotect yourkneesbyabsorbingasmuchshockaspossible,andthebeltshouldbedurable.Themotorneedstobereliableandheavyenoughtostanduptotheweightofitsusers.

• Elliptical trainers ($500 to $4,000 and up)duplicatewalking or running butwithout impactonyourjoints.Theegg-shaped(elliptical)motiontakesalittlegettingusedto,butonceyougetthe

hangofit,itcanbelikewalkingonair.Thearmsletyouworkoutyourupperbodyalongwithyourlegs. Key features include a smoothmotion anddurablemechanisms.

HomeOffice

Whetherit’sprimarilyusedforrunningabusinessorpayingpersonalbills,ahomeofficeisamoreproductivesetting if it’s separated from everyday household trafficandnoise.Inabasement,thewide-openspaceisidealforcreatinga large, formaloffice,butaquietcornercanbeperfect fora smallworkstation.Walkoutbasementsareespecially suitable for offices that receive visitors andclients, because they have their own outside entrances.Youcanaddsignageorlandscapearoundtheentrancetogive it a professional appearance. But be sure to checkthe zoning requirements in your area regarding publicofficespace.Keep in mind that basement offices need plenty of

lighting.Anofficethat’stoodarkwillbeunappealing—toyouandtoclients.Ifpossible,planyourofficearoundan existing window, or add a window formore naturallight.Iftheofficehasnowindows,useabundantambientlightingtogivetheroomageneralsenseofwarmth.Planningabasementofficethatworksforyouinvolves

many factors, including determining the best layout foryour needs, ensuring comfort over long hours of work,andprovidingthenecessaryhookupsforyourequipment.

ElectricalNeeds

It’s a good idea to have access to one ormore newcircuitsthatserveonlyyourhomeofficeequipment.Thiswill reduce the chances of downtimes caused by circuitoverloads.Todeterminehowmuchpower isneeded foryour equipment, add up the amperage (amps) drawn byallofthepieces.Theampsshouldbelistedonthebackofeach device. The total number of amps used on onecircuit should not exceed 80% of the circuit’s rating.Install enough receptacles to accommodate the devicesyoucurrentlyhave,aswellasafewextrasforequipmentyoumayneedinthefuture.Also make sure you have all the communications

wiring you’ll need—for Internet access, fax machines,business and personal phone lines, etc. As with theelectrical outlets, including extra wiring and jacks nowmay be far more convenient and cost effective thanaddingthemlater.

Ahomeofficeneedn’tbeelaborate.Ifit’sthoughtfullydesigned,eventhesmallestareacanbeanefficientworkspace.Nordoesahomeofficenecessarilyneeditsownroom.Insharedspaces,however,everyonewillfeelmorecomfortableifthereissomesenseofdivisionoranimpliedboundary,suchasastandingscreen,curtain,bookcase,orloweredceiling.

OfficeLayouts

These typical office layouts can help you find aconfiguration that will work for your given space. Tohelp with your planning, think about the tasks you domostoftenandhowmuch storage spaceyou’llneed forcommonly used materials. Approximate sizes are givenforeachtypicalofficeelement.

WallLayout.Withthissimplelayout,thedeskandstorageunitsarealignedalongonewall.Althoughthisisagoodchoiceforofficeswithlimitedspace,itislessefficientthanotherarrangementsbecausetheelementsarenotalwayswithineasyreach.

L-shapedLayout.Thisconfigurationisthemosteffectiveforacorner.Youcanalsouseittodivideaspace,byplacingonelegoftheLagainstawallandlettingtheotherlegprojectoutintotheroom.TheLshapegivesyoufairlyeasyaccesstoalargeworksurface.

ParallelLayout.Inthisarrangement,therearetwodesksortablessetafewfeetapartfromeachotherwithachairinbetween.Aparallellayoutmakesiteasytoseparateyourworkbytask;forexample,youcansetyourcomputerononesurfaceandplaceyourfilesandphoneontheother.

U-shapedLayout.Thislayoutcreatesthemostefficientworkareabecausealloftheelementsarewithineasyreach.Byaddingachairontheoutsideofoneoftheworksurfaces,youcancreateasmallconferencearea.

Built-inBar

Owning your own basement bar makes a statementaboutyou.Forsome,itmightsay“Ihavearrivedandthisis my space!” While for others a bar might say“Welcome, friends, our home is your home.” And forothers,well,let’sjustsaythepossibilitiesarefairlywideranging.Butwhatever storyyourbar tells—be itoneofquiet aperitifsbeforedining, casual afternoonswatchingthe big game, or raucous evenings of wild revelry—buildingyourbasementbaryourselfpersonalizesthetaleand adds a feature to your home thatwill have a directimpactonhowwellyouenjoyyourhomelife.Thebar shownhere is sleeklystyledandsmartly laid

outfortheefficientbarkeeper.Asmallrefrigeratorgivesyou access to cold drinks and ice while convenientcabinetscreateexcellentstoragespotsforpartyfavors.Whilethisisadrybar(noplumbing),thedesigncould

bemodifiedinanynumberofwaystoaddrunningwaterif you wish. All you need to get the party started is aGFCIelectricaloutletandtheproperfloorspace.This compact corner bar design features glossy black

MDFapronswithdecorativecherryappliquésformingahorizontalgridpatternon theaprons.Acherryplywoodbartop sits atop a 2 × 6 L-shaped kneewall, harboringsomepracticalamenitiesonthebartenderside.Aflip-uplift gate in thebartoponone endprovidespass-through

accessandcanevenfunctionasawaitstationifyouwanttogetreallyfancyinyourhostingThe key components—base cabinets, a laminate

countertop, the fridge, and thewood for a sleekAsian-inspired style trim-out—set the stage for your nextgathering.

Abasementloungemeansbasicallyonething:Abar.Whetherit’sawetbar(withplumbing)ordry,aclubbyorretrofeelingisrightathome.

CutawayView

CuttingList

HowtoBuildaBuilt-InBar

Installwallsandflooringandthenbegininstallingthebuilt-inbar.Thebarshownhereismadeusingprinciplestakenfrombothframecarpentryandtrimcarpentry.Thewallsofthebarareessentiallystubwallsthatmeetata90°angle.Usepressuretreated2×6tomakethesoleplates.Attachtheplateswithconstructionadhesiveandscrewsifthereisasubfloor,oruseapowder-actuatedtool.

Toenail2×6cornerstudstothesoleplateafteryouhavejoinedthethreepiecestogetherintoaU-shapedassembly.Attachanother2×6tothewallattheclosedendofthebar.Ifthe2×6isnotoverastudlocation,removewallcoverings,installacrossblocknailerinthestudcavity,andthenrepairthewall.Checkwithaleveltomakesureallstudsareplumb.

Installthereaming2×6stud(roughly16"on-center)andthencaptherailsthatbutttogetheratthecorner.

Maketheapronpanels.Here,1/2"mediumdensityfiberboard(MDF)isused.Coatthepanelswithglossyblackpaint.Forbestresults,useanHVLPsprayerandfinishthepanelsinaseparate,well-ventilatedroom.

Setoneapronpanelontoa1/4"-thickspacernexttothestubwallsandpositionit.Attachittothestubwallwithconstructionadhesiveandfinishnails.

Positionandnailthesecondapronpanelintoplace,drivingnailsat8to10"intervals.Becauseyouwillbeattachingcornermolding,don’tworrytoomuchaboutsmallgapswheretheapronsmeet.

Installtheparticleboardsubbaseforthecountertop.Buttthestripstogether,centeringthemonthestubwallcaprails.Fastenthemwithconstructionadhesiveanddeckscrews.Besuretocountersinkthescrewheadsslightly.

Cutthecountertopstripstosizefromqualitycherry-veneerplywood.Thetwomatingendsshouldbemitered.Double-checkthesubbasecornertomakesureitisexactly90°(useacarpenter’ssquare).Ifitisnot,miter-cutthefirstpanelat45°,setitinplace,andmeasuretheremainingangle.Cutthesecondstriptothatangle.

Fastenthecherryplywoodcountertopsectionstothesubbasebydriving1-1/4"wallboardscrewsupthroughthesubbaseandintothecountertops.Countersinkthescrewheadsbutnotsomuchthattheypenetratetheveneerlayer.

Attachstripsofsolidcherryedgingtotheedgesofthecountertop.Ifyou’rehandywitharouter,cutaroundoverprofileononeedgeofeachstrip(theedgethatfacesawayformthecountertop.Useadhesiveand4dcasingnailsdrivenintopilotholestoattachtheedging.

Cutanendpaneltofitovertheopenendofthestubwallbeneaththecountertopedging.Attachwithadhesiveand4dnailsdriventhroughpilotholes.Makesurethepaneliswideenoughtoconcealtheedgesoftheapronpanelandtheendsofthedecorativeapronstripsthatwillbeinstalledlater.

Attachanothercherryendpanelanda1×2cherrystopblocktothewalltocreatearestingspotforthehingedportionofthecountertop(calledtheliftgate)whenitisinthedownposition.Usewallanchorsinsteadofnailsiftheblockisnotatastudlocation(or,cutopenthewallandinstallacrossblocknailer).

Installtheliftgate.Buildtheliftgatefromtwopiecesofcherryplywoodsandwichedtogether,eachwithitsgoodfaceout,andinstallcherryedgingallaround.Attachapianohinge(inset)totheliftgatefirstandthentotheendofthecountertop.Testthehingeaction.

Attachthedecorativecherrytrimstripstotheapronsinaladderpattern.Usefinishnailsandadhesivetoattachthem.Formaximumefficiency,rip-cutallyourtrimstockonatablesawandthensandandfinishthestripsasagroup(inset)beforecuttingthemtofinallength.

Installbasecabinetsbehindthebarforstorage.Apostformcountertopisaconvenienttouch.Createanopeningforaminifridgebyattachingacleattothewallattheclosedendofthebar.

Slidetheminifridgeintotheopeningbeneaththecountertopandplugitin.Ifyouarebotheredbytheexposedportionofthestubwallabovethecountertop,createatilebacksplashtoconcealit(inset).

ConversionCharts

MetricConversions

ConvertingTemperatures

ConvertdegreesFahrenheit(F)todegreesCelsius(C)by following this simple formula: Subtract 32 from theFahrenheit temperature reading. Then, multiply thatnumberby5/9.Forexample,77°F-32=45.45×5/9=25°C.

To convert degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit,multiply the Celsius temperature reading by 9/5. Then,add32.Forexample,25°C×9/5=45.45+32=77°F.

MetricPlywoodPanels

Metric plywood panels are commonly available intwosizes:1,200mm×2,400mmand1,220mm×2,400mm, which is roughly equivalent to a 4 × 8-ft. sheet.Standard and Select sheathing panels come in standardthicknesses, while Sanded grade panels are available inspecialthicknesses.

LumberDimensions

LiquidMeasurementEquivalents

DrillBitGuide

Nails

Nail lengths are identifiedbynumbers from4 to 60followedbytheletter“d,”whichstandsfor“penny.”Forgeneral framing and repair work, use common or boxnails. Common nails are best suited to framing workwhere strength is important. Box nails are smaller indiameterthancommonnails,whichmakesthemeasiertodriveandlesslikelytosplitwood.Useboxnailsforlightwork and thin materials. Most common and box nailshave a cement or vinyl coating that improves theirholdingpower.

Counterbore,Shank&PilotHoleDiameters

Resources

AmericanInstituteofArchitects800-364-9364www.aiaonline.com

AmericanSocietyofInteriorDesigners202-546-3480www.asid.org

ApexCustomWineCellarsManufacturer of wine racks and cooling systems;featuredonp.13(lowerright),92888-999-9749www.apexwinecellars.com

ArmstrongWorldIndustriesFlooringandceilingtiles;featuredonp.100to104717-397-0611

AssociationofHomeApplianceManufacturers202-872-5955www.aham.org

InternationalResidentialCode(book)InternationalConferenceofBuildingOfficials800-284-4406

www.icbo.com

LATICRETEInternationalInc.Manufacturerofradiantfloormatsfeaturedonpages86–91800-243-4788www.laticrete.com

NationalAssociationoftheRemodelingIndustry703-575-1100www.nari.org

NationalKitchen&BathAssociation(NKBA)800-843-6522www.nkba.com

2ndWindExerciseEquipmentTreadmillfeaturedonp.106952-544-5249www.2ndwind.net

U.S.EnvironmentalProtectionAgencyIndoorairqualitywww.epa.gov/iedweb00/pubs/insidest.html

PhotoCredits

p. 4 Elizabeth Whiting & Associates /www.EWAstock.com

p. 6 © Anne Gummerson /www.AnneGummersonPhoto.com

p. 8 Elizabeth Whiting Associates /www.EWAstock.com

p. 10 © Beth Singer /www.BethSingerPhotographer.com

p. 11 (top) Elizabeth Whiting & Associates /www.EWAstock.com,(lower)CalSpas

p. 12 (top) Elizabeth Whiting & Associates /www.EWAstock.com,(lowerleft)©BethSinger/ www.BethSingerPhotographer.com, (lowerright)www.iStockPhoto.com

p. 40 (lower left) Courtesy of Dow AgroSciencesLLC (Sentricon Termite Colony EliminationSystem)

p. 80 photo courtesy of Room & Board® /www.RoomAndBoard.com

p. 100 (left) photo courtesy of Armstrong® /www.Armstrong.com(877-276-7876)

p.110www.iStockPhoto.comp. 122 & 164 photo courtesy of Armstrong /www.Armstrong.com(877-276-7876)

p.196www.iStockPhoto.comp.235(lowerright)www.iStockPhoto.comp.236©EricRoth/www.EricRothPhoto.comp. 237 (top) photo courtesy of Broan NuTone® /www.Broan-Nutone.com(262-673-4340),(lower)© Linda Oyama Bryan for Orren PickellDesigners&Builders

p.238www.iStockPhoto.com/©MicheleMalvenp. 239 (top) www.iStockPhoto.com / © SandraO’Claire

p. 240 to 241 (all) photos courtesy of Nautilus /www.Nautilus.com

p. 242 photo courtesy of California Closets® /www.CaliforniaClosets.com

Index

AAcoustictileceilings,installing,164–165Acryliccarpet,characteristicsof,111Appliancesandbuildingcodes,20Aproninsulation,installing,44–45Asbestos,15

BBalancetrainers,240Bars,built-inaddingbuilding,246–249cutawayviewwithmaterialsneeded,245designidea,244overviewof,244Baseboardheaters,installing,48–51Baseboardmolding,installing,192–193Bathroomsaddingbuilding,207–211overviewof,201plumbing,202–206buildingcoderequirements,20

designideas,13,200electricalneeds,19recommendedclearances,22ventilation,239Bedroomsaddingbuilding,214–217overviewof,213advantagesofbasement,10designideas,13,212electricalneeds,19ventilation,239Bifoldinteriordoors,installing,187Buildingcodesceilingheight,14egresswindows,21floordrains,77overviewof,20

CCarpetingbuying,111installinglaying,113–121overviewof,110planning,112

subfloorfor,75Casemolding,installingdoor&window,192,194–

195Ceilingsframingsoffits,140–141hangingwallboardon,147heightofbuildingcoderequirements,14evaluating,15gymsand,239installingacoustictile,164–165suspended,160–163mold-resistantmaterialsfor,123,124types,125forwinecellars,236Ceramictilefloors,installingfaux,67,96–99real,92–95subfloorfor,75Circuitbreakerpanelsconnectingbreakersfornewcircuits,60–61overviewof,58,59radiantfloorsand,87Closetsbuildingcoderequirements,20ideasfor,212

Concretefloorsdecorativefinishesoverviewof,80painting,84sealing,81–83staining,85power-actuatedtoolsand,126–127resurfacing,72–73Concretewallsandpower-actuatedtools,126–127Condensation,reducing,28Constructionofbasements(typical),19Conversationnooks,designideafor,11Cornersframing,133slipstudsfor,139wallboardand,149Countertopwineracks,235Cracksinspecting,14,16repairingfloor,70wall,28,30

DDancestudios,10Doors

framingopenings,134–135installingcasemolding,192,194–195installinginteriorbifold,187pocket,184–186prehung,180–183installingwalkoutpatio,188–191paintinglouvered,217forwinecellars,236Drainagesolutionsdrystreambeds,34–35drywells,32–33foundationgardens,36–37re-grading,32sumppumps,28,38–39Drainsfloor,77footing,28Dreamrooms,10Dry-backedresilienttilefloors,installing,102–104Drystreambeds,building,34–35Drywallsdescribed,43finishinginstallingcornerbeads,151mixingjointcompound,152overviewof,150,152

sandingjointcompound,156–157tape&mud,153–155hangingcutting,144–145installing,146–149overviewof,142preparingfor,143Drywells,installing,32–33

EEgresswindowsforbedrooms,214buildingcoderequirements,21installing,168–173Electricalboxescircuitsaddingconnectingbreakersfornewcircuits,60–61mainservicepanels,58–61overviewof,56planning,56–57runningnewcircuitcables,62–65buildingcoderequirements,20cuttingwallboardopeningsfor,145locationrequirements,20

Electricalcapacity,18Electricalrequirementsbuildingcodesand,20forgyms,239forhomeoffices,242radiantfloorsand,87wiring,23Ellipticaltrainers,241Engineeredwoodflooring,installingsubfloorfor,75Evaluatingbasementselectricalcapacity,18mainfeatures,15–16,19overviewof,14testingconditions,17typicalconstruction,19Exterioraproninsulation,installing,44–45

FFamilyroomsaddingwithfireplace,220–225advantagesofbasement,10designideas,12,13,218overviewof,219ventilation,239Fans

forgyms,239vent,52–53Fauxwoodorceramicfloors,installing,96–99Fireplacesgasbuildingfireboxopeningandsupport,220–221gassupplyfor,225installingtilesandheadcasing,222–224typesof,219Floatinglaminateplankfloors,installing,96–99Floordrains,accessto,77Floorsforgyms,239installingisolationmembranes,74laminateplank,96–99radiant,86–91resilienttile,100–105rubberroll,106–109stone,92–95subfloorsinterlockingpanels,76–77preparingbyflooringtype,75sleeperinstallation,78–79tile,92–95transitionstrips,75

warmingsystemsfor,86–91layingcarpetbuying,111installing,113–121overviewof,110planning,112overviewofbasement,68preparinginstallingisolationmembranes,74installingsubfloorsinterlockingpanels,76–77preparingbyflooringtype,75sleeperinstallation,78–79leveling,69overviewof,68patchingholes,70–71repairingcracks,70resurfacingconcrete,72–73forwinecellars,236Footingdrains,28Foundationdrainagegardens,making,36–37Framingceilingsoffits,140–141corners,133furred-outwalls,128–129interiordooropenings,134–135moistureand,123

soundproofwalls,133withsteelstuds,136–139Freeweights,241Furred-outwalls,framing,128–129Fusepanels,58,59

GGameroomsdesignidea,164ventilation,239Gardens,makingfoundationdrainage,36–37Gasfireplacesbuildingfireboxopeningandsupport,220–221gassupplyfor,225installingtilesandheadcasing,222–224typesof,219GFCIbreakersbuildingcoderequirements,20radiantfloorsand,87Guestbedrooms.SeeBedroomsGuttersystems,improving,29Gymsadvantagesofbasement,10,238designideas,239equipmentfor,238,240–241overviewof,238

requirementsof,238–239

HHandicapped-accessibilebathrooms,22Headroombuildingcoderequirements,14evaluating,15gymsand,239Heaters,high-efficiency,42Heating,improvinginstallingbaseboardheaters,48–51floor-warmingsystems,86–91overviewof,48Holes,patchingfloor,70–71Homeofficesdesignidea,242electricalneeds,19,242layoutsfor,243overviewof,242ventilation,239Hometheatersdesignidea,12electricalneeds,19Humidityconsiderations,9

testingfor,17inwinecellars,237SeealsoMoisture

IInsects,controlling,40–41Insulationinstallingexteriorapron,44–45interiorwalls,46–47overviewof,42–43forwinecellars,236Interiordoorsframingopenings,134–135installingbifold,187casemolding,192,194–195pocket,184–186prehung,180–183paintinglouvered,217forwinecellars,236

JJointcompoundmixingfordrywalls,152

sanding,156–157Joists,fasteningtopplatesto,130

KKitchensdesignidea,10ventilation,239

LLaminatefloors,installing,96–99Latchsets,installing,183Laundrycentersbuilding,228–231overviewof,226–227Layoutlines,100Layoutsample,25L-corners,133,139Levelingfloors,68–69Lightingbuildingcoderequirements,20forgyms,239forhomeoffices,242forwinecellars,237Livingsuitesdesignideas,11

electricalneeds,19Louvereddoors,painting,217

MMechanicals,14Medicineballs,240Metalcornerbeads,installing,151Moisturecommoncausesof,29controlling,28–30formsof,28framingwallsand,123preventingbuildingdrystreambeds,34–35installingdrywells,32–33installingsumppumps,28,38–39makingfoundationdrainagegardens,36–37re-gradingdrainageslope,32waterproofpaint,31Moldinginstallingbaseboard,193installingdoor&windowcase,194–195overviewof,192Mold-resistantmaterials,123Musicroomsadvantagesofbasement,10

ventilation,239

NNailers,power-actuated,126–127Nyloncarpet,characteristicsof,111

OObstructions,workingaround,14Olefincarpet,characteristicsof,111

PPaintingconcretefloors,84decorativefinishesonconcretefloors,84louvereddoors,217waterproofpainttopreventmoisture,31Paneling,installing,158–159Pantries,advantagesofbasement,10Partitionwallsbuilding,130–133framingdooropening,134–135overviewof,125soundproofing,133Patiodoors,installing,188–191PATs(power-actuatedtools),126–127

Pests,controlling,40–41Planklaminatefloors,installing,96–99Plumbingdrainsfloor,77footing,28installingforbathrooms,202–206slopeofbranchdrainlines,19tracing,15Pocketinteriordoors,installing,184–186Polyestercarpet,characteristicsof,111Porcelaintilefloors,installing,92–95Power-actuatedtools(PATs),126–127Prehunginteriordoors,installing,180–183Projectsteps,24

RRadiantfloors,installing,86–91Radontesting,17Referencelines,100Resilienttilefloors,installing,100–105Rubberrollfloors,installing,106–109

S

Safetyasbestos,15disposalofmaterialsand,83radon,17Sealingconcretefloors,81–83Seepagepreventiondrainagesolutionsdrystreambeds,34–35drywells,32–33foundationgardens,36–37re-grading,32sumppumps,28,38–39waterproofpaint,31Self-adhesiveresilienttilefloors,installing,105Servicepanelscircuitsaddingconnectingbreakersfornewcircuits,60–61mainservicepanels,58–61overviewof,56planning,56–57runningnewcircuitcables,62–65buildingcoderequirements,20cuttingwallboardopeningsfor,145locationrequirements,20

Sheetrubberfloors,installing,106–109Skimcoatingwalls,28,30Sleepersystem,installing,78–79Slipstuds,buildingcornerswith,139Soffits,building,140–141Soundproofingbuildingpartitionwalls,133gymsand,239Stabilityballs,240Stainingconcretefloors,85Stairrequirements,23Stationarybicycles,240Steelstuds,framingwallswith,136–139Stonetilefloors,installing,92–95Storagerooms,advantagesofbasement,10Streambeds,buildingdry,34–35Studwalls,129Subfloors,installinginterlockingpanels,76–77preparingbyflooringtype,75sleeperinstallation,78–79Sumppumpsdescribed,28installing,38–39Suspendedceilings,installing,160–163Swissballs,240

TT-corners,133,139Temperatureforwinecellars,236–237Tileceilings,installingacoustic,164–165Tilefloors,installingfaux,96–99overviewof,92real,93–95resilient,100–105subfloorfor,75Tiles,installingaroundfireplaces,222–224Topsplates,fasteningtojoists,130Transitionstrips,75Treadmills,240,241

UUnfinishedareas,buildingcoderequirementsfor,20Universaldesignbathroomclearances,22

VVentilationbuildingcoderequirements,20forgyms,239upgrading,52–55

forwinecellars,237Vibrationsandwinecellars,237Vinylcornerbeads,installing,151

WWalkoutpatiodoors,installing,188–191Wallboarddescribed,43finishinginstallingcornerbeads,151mixingjointcompound,152overviewof,150,152sandingjointcompound,156–157tape&mud,153–155hangingcutting,144–145installation,146–149overviewof,142preparingfor,143Wallscracksininspecting,14,16repairing,28,30evaluating,16framingfurred-out,128–129framingwithsteelstuds,136–139

hangingwallboardon,147installingpaneling,158–159insulatingimportanceofdrywalls,43interior,46–47load-andnonload-bearing,124mold-resistantmaterialsfor,123,124partitionbuilding,130–133framingdooropening,134–135overviewof,125soundproofing,133stud,129testingforwater,17toolsforconcrete,126–127types,125forwinecellars,236SeealsoWallboardWashingboxes,installingrecessed,227Waterbowingwallsand,16considerations,9sourcesofstanding,15testingfor,17tilefloorsand,92SeealsoMoistureWaterheaters,18

Weightbenches,241Weightmachines,241Weights(gym),241Windowsegressforbedrooms,214considerations,21installing,168–173installingcasemolding,192,194–195replacing,174–175trimforoverviewof,176trimming,177–179Windowwellscovering,31installing,168–173Winecellarsadvantagesofbasement,10building,233–235designideas,13,232,236materialsusedfor,236overviewof,232temperatureand,236–237Woodfloors,installingfaux,67,96–99subfloorforengineered,75Woodforwineracks,234

Woolcarpet,characteristicsof,111

Copyright©2009CreativePublishinginternational,Inc.

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PrintedinSingaporeDigitaledition:978-1-61673-381-0

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-PublicationData

The complete guide to finishing basements :step-by-stepprojectsforaddinglivingspacewithoutaddingon.

p.cm.--(Thecompleteguide)Atheadoftitle:BrandedbyBlack&Decker®Includesindex.Summary: “Shows how to handle modern

materials and tools to add an extra bathroom, afamily room,bedroom,homeoffice,orgame roomtobasementsofhomes”--Providedbypublisher.

ISBN-13:978-1-58923-454-3(softcover)ISBN-10:1-58923-454-5(softcover)1. Basements--Remodeling--Amateurs’ manuals.

I. Black & Decker Corporation (Towson, Md.) II.Title:BrandedbyBlack&Decker.III.Series.

TH4816.3.B35C6852009643’.5--dc22

2008045813

President/CEO:KenFundVPforSales&Marketing:KevinHamric

HomeImprovementGroupPublisher:BryanTrandemManagingEditor:TracyStanleySeniorEditor:MarkJohansonEditor:JenniferGehlharCreativeDirector:MicheleLanci-Altomare

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Black&Decker®isatrademarkofTheBlack&DeckerCorporationandisusedunderlicense.

NOTICETOREADERS

For safety, use caution, care, and good judgmentwhen following the procedures described in this book.The publisher and Black & Decker cannot assumeresponsibility for any damage to property or injury topersonsasaresultofmisuseoftheinformationprovided.The techniques shown in this book are general

techniques for various applications. In some instances,additional techniques not shown in this book may berequired. Always follow manufacturers’ instructionsincluded with products, since deviating from thedirectionsmayvoidwarranties.Theprojectsinthisbookvarywidelyas toskill levelsrequired:somemaynotbeappropriate for all do-it-yourselfers, and some mayrequireprofessionalhelp.Consultyourlocalbuildingdepartmentforinformation

onbuildingpermits,codes,andotherlawsastheyapplytoyourproject.