The most common mistake homeowners make when finishing their basement is not planning the project carefully. A majority of unfinished basements are a result of not knowing what to do before starting, and how to do it. And that lack of knowledge can lead to a lot more than just an unfinished basement—it could also lead to ruined walls, floors, furniture, and more.

So, if you're planning on finishing your basement, here are a few things you should do first:

Create a plan for your basement.

Before you start your basement finishing project, you should create a plan. This plan should include what you want your finished basement to look like, what type of flooring and walls you want, where the electrical outlets and lights will be, and more.

By creating a plan, you can ensure that your basement finishes smoothly and efficiently. You won’t have to go back and fix mistakes, and you can make sure that everything is done to your specifications.

What to Inspect and Fix Before You Start Finishing Your Basement

When you have your plan ready, the next thing you should do is inspect your basement. Look for any cracks in the foundation or walls, leaks, mold, or other problems. These problems should be fixed before you start finishing your basement, as they can cause serious issues down the road.

If you find any cracks, leaks, or mold, you should call a professional to fix the problem. Do not try to fix these problems yourself, as you could make them worse.

Key Elements to Factor Into Your Plans

When creating your basement finishing plan, you should also factor in the key elements of your basement. These key elements include the following:

The Size and Shape of Your Basement

The size and shape of your basement will also affect your finishing plans. If you have a small, narrow basement, for example, you might not be able to put in a wet bar or pool table. And if your basement is very large, you’ll need to make sure that your plans are big enough to fill the space.

Choose Your Flooring and Walls

Once you’ve inspected and fixed any problems in your basement, and created a plan that takes the key elements into account, you can start choosing your flooring and walls.

There are many different types of flooring and walls to choose from, so take your time in making a decision. Consider what type of look you want, how much traffic the basement will receive, and your budget.

As for walls, you have a few different options as well. You can choose to finish your basement with drywall, paneling, or tile. Again, consider your budget and what look you’re going for before making a decision.

Install Electric Outlets and Lights

Another important part of finishing your basement is installing electric outlets and lights. You’ll need to have electric outlets installed so you can plug-in lamps, TVs, computers, and other electronics. And you’ll need to have adequate lighting in your basement so it’s not too dark.

You can either hire an electrician to install the outlets and lights for you, or you can do it yourself. If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to read the instructions carefully and use caution when working with electricity.

Insulate Pipes and Walls

Insulating your pipes and walls is another important step in finishing your basement. By doing this, you can help prevent mold and mildew from growing, and keep your basement warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

You can insulate your pipes and walls yourself, or hire a professional to do it for you. If you decide to do it on your own, make sure to carefully follow the instructions.

Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing your basement is one of the most important steps in finishing your basement. By waterproofing your basement, you can help prevent water damage, mold, and mildew.

There are many different ways to waterproof your basement, so you’ll need to do some research to find the best option for your home. You can hire a professional to waterproof your basement, or you can do it yourself.

Finish Your Basement and Add Living Space to Your Home

Once you’ve made all of the necessary preparations, you can finally start finishing your basement. This is where you’ll put your finishing touches on the space, such as painting the walls, installing flooring, and adding furniture.

Whether you prefer a DIY approach or opt for professional assistance, the choice is yours. If you decide to go the DIY route, take your time to ensure a job well done. It's an opportunity to create a basement that perfectly suits your needs. Ready to transform your basement? Call Grand Rapids Basement Pros for expert guidance and assistance today!