8 Tips for a Smooth DIY Basement Remodel, From Drainage to Drywall

Tackling a DIY basement remodel can be the most cost-effective way to add more space and value to your home. While a basement remodel is a more significant DIY project, and basements have their unique elements compared to other house areas, don't worry! 

By following these eight tips, you can successfully plan out your project so you can enjoy a high-quality, long-lasting furnished basement for many years to come. 

1. Draw Up a Plan for Your DIY Basement Remodel

The first most crucial prep tip for your DIY basement remodel is to draw up a plan and apply for any permits you may need. 

You can purchase the software to design it yourself, or this may be the one part of your DIY that you can outsource. Creating a plan will give you a better idea of what materials, budget, and timeline your project involves, so you are more likely to get the results you desire. 

Plus, you will probably need to get permits for the renovations and submit copies of the plans to your local government agency. You can also ask about any codes you need to keep in mind before diving into your renovation project. 

For example, many city codes require a basement ceiling that provides between 7 and 7.5 feet of clearance. You can do a quick search for specific building codes in your city and state to make sure you meet all requirements. 

Common Design Prep Done Before Finishing a Basement

According to data from Angi, most homeowners are looking for input from a professional, with about 57% wanting a recommendation and roughly 37% of homeowners wanting sketches or a basic idea for a project.

2. Inspect Your Basement and Fix Any Issues 

It’s essential to inspect your basement to fix any possible issues before you spend a considerable amount of time and money remodeling. 

Some significant issues you want to be proactive and fix before you start renovating include: 

• Cracks in the foundation 

• Leaky plumbing 

• Faulty wiring 

• Condensation

Cracks in the foundation may signify a more significant structural issue. Moisture is the number one enemy for a finished basement, so experts recommend checking the basement condensation. 

This is a good idea whether you plan to do a basement renovation or not because catching any moisture issues early can prevent more costly problems down the road. 

3. Install a Drainage System 

Another proactive tip is to make sure you have a drainage system installed that takes water away from your home’s foundation. This will also help you prevent any possible moisture issues in your renovated basement. 

Some simple things you can install and check include: 

• Gutters that carry rainwater at least 10 feet away from your house 

• Sealing small cracks around pipes 

• Sloping the soil away from the foundation 

It’s also a good idea to install a sump pump in your basement to protect your renovation investment. Sump pumps automatically turn on to help keep water out of the basement. 

If you don’t have experience handling these types of DIY projects, you may consider hiring a basement remodeling contractor to help.

4. Waterproof and Insulate the Walls

Again, moisture is the biggest enemy in maintaining your DIY basement remodel, so prepping the walls is also essential. 

By waterproofing and insulating the walls, you'll fight against moisture while making your basement more energy efficient. 

Waterproofing materials, like waterproof paint, will help fill in the pores of concrete walls and help prevent water from leaking in the basement. Insulating the walls prevents condensation from forming and will also help save on energy costs. 

5. Choose Water-Resistant Flooring

There are various basement flooring options, but the most practical option is polished and sealed concrete. It’s waterproof, wear-resistant, and the least expensive option if you’re looking for ways to save money. 

But if polished and sealed concrete doesn't fit in with your overall design, you can also opt for luxury vinyl planks, porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, or stone tiles if you have level concrete. These are the best options because they are water-resistant and durable.

If your basement floor isn’t level, or you’re looking for a warmer feel to your basement, you can install a subfloor. This will also help with air circulation and help keep moisture levels down. 

The flooring you want to avoid includes glass, peel and stick options, and carpet.  

6. Don’t Use Standard Drywall 

Standard drywall is the perfect playground for mold and mildew. Gypsum, a type of rock, is sandwiched between two thick pieces of paper, creating a drywall "board." The paper allows water to seep in, leading to possible mold and mildew issues.

Rather, opt-in for non-paper drywall that is moisture-resistant and prevents water from seeping into the board. Additionally, you can also opt for acoustic drywall if you're looking for a bit more privacy or ways to make your basement more sound-friendly.

7. Don’t Forget About Heating and Cooling  

You may not need to worry about how to heat or cool your basement if the space is already insulated. But many homeowners need to have a heating and cooling plan as part of their basement remodel. 

Many opt for electrical baseboard heaters as it's a fast and easy way to provide heat. Also, tapping into the existing HVAC ductwork could be an option depending on your layout. 

8. Add Items for Additional Comfort 

Lastly, don't forget about the little things that can make your remodeled basement your new favorite spot in the home. Items such as a wireless network extender and a cell phone signal booster can really make a difference.