Finishing Basement Walls

More and more, basements are being converted from being damp and musty storage spaces into usable living space. The first step toward this conversion is finishing basement walls. Finishing basement walls helps give the basement a cozy and comfortable feel, rather than the feeling of being in a dark dungeon. After finishing basement walls, the possibilities of what can be done with the space are limited only to your imagination!

Laying the Framework

The framework created when finishing basement walls is critical to the success of the final product. First, it is important to never drive nails into the basement floor. Instead, horizontal base plates made with 2" x 2"s need to be attached to the basement wall using adhesive.

The plates should be attached several inches above the floor and masonry nails should also be used to help hold the board in place as the adhesive sets.

After the base plate is securely in place, the next step in finishing basement walls is to add vertical 2 x 2's using the same method as was used for the base plates. All of the vertical 2 x 2s should run from the top of the wall all the way down to the horizontal base plate.

Adding the Final Touches when Finishing Basement Walls

Now that the framework has been laid for your new wall, the next step in finishing basement walls is to hang drywall. It is important to first consider placement of electrical outlets. Of course, the wiring should first be in place behind the new walls. In addition, spaces for the electrical outlets need to be cut out from the drywall and planned out prior to its hanging.

Once the proper holes have been cut from the drywall, it is also important to only bring the drywall down to just over the horizontal base plate. You want to leave a clear space beneath the new wall when finishing basement walls. This is because basements are prone to leakage and moisture and this will help prevent water damage from occurring to the wall should water leak into the basement.

You may then choose to paint over the dry wall or wallpaper it. Or, you might use the drywall to provide a sturdy backing for paneling. Whichever you choose, you are sure to have a beautiful new living space to enjoy for years to come!