Built in Bookshelf

Here is a custom built in bookshelf that was recently created by KC Basement Finishing. The bookshelf is actually covering up and allowing access to the water main shut-off. This turned out to be a great fit for this Olathe basement finish. This bookshelf features adjustable shelving and custom doors made by Olympic Cabinet. The total cost of this built in is around $1200. It was built using 3/4 Birch Plywood for the main framework and 1x6 Popular for the face. The dimensions are 11' in length and 8' in height. The final step was an oil-based finish. To see more work from KC Basement Finishing visit us online.

Wiring for Technology

One of the most important things to do when you are finishing your basement is thorough planning. A good contractor can help you with all of this when finishing a basement in Kansas City.

If you plan to incorporate technology in a home office or media room including the following items now will save you from added expenses down the road.

• Power Outlets- Most rooms are not designed to sustain the number of devices people use today, so adding a few extra outlets in the right location can make a big difference.
• Cable- Determining the location of your TV is one of the first and most important steps when designing a basement. This can be difficult so it may be best to add a cable hook up in more than one location.
• Surround Sound- Including surround sound when finishing your basement is a great opportunity to add some features to your basement.
• Internet-Usually a good idea to include at least 1 internet connection. Even if your current internet provider allows for wireless use, you may change providers or your provider may change their service.

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Basement Finish Design

When finishing your basement the first and most important step is coming out with a good layout for your basement. If you are planning on doing this yourself you will have to be able to visualize your ideas. This is difficult for anyone to do, especially if you do not have experience. Today, many high end basement finishes begin with a 3-D design. This will help you as the homeowner see exactly what your new space will look like when it is finished. Putting a 3-D design together forces the designer to put extra time and thought in creating a unique space. A professionally designed basement will almost always come out better than a hand drawn design. However, it will take more time which will cost more money. In most cases it is worth the added expense and will pay for itself with an increase to your home's value.

Stadium-Style Seating

Want your finished basement to be the envy of all your friends? The place where everyone wants to be on game day. Consider upgrading your media room by using a stadium style seating. This type of seating won't work in every basement. If the ceiling is too low you will not have a comfortable amount of head room. The basement ceiling should be at least 9' tall to make this design idea work.

If you have the ceiling height you're halfway there. A box constructed out of 2x4, 4x4, and 1/2" plywood can be built for as little as $500, and that includes your material.

In many cases it is not possible to bring a large couch down the steps into the basement. With individual seating you will be able to provide seating for a larger group, using a smaller amount of space.

Estimates and Contracts

When getting your bids ask for the estimate to be itemized by the trade. This will help you compare the estimates evenly. If one company is higher for a specific area, ask them why.
Also make sure to ask how long the project will take. If a project is executed quickly it may be worth paying a little extra. Here are a few things to look for in a contract.

• Certificate of Insurance
• Calender Date
• Timeline
• Payment Schedule
• Warranty or Guarantee

If you follow these steps it will make your basement finish a better experience. There are other things you should consider when preparing a budget. Almost all remodeling projects go over the original estimate. This is due to changes or additions that are typically requested by the homeowner. Find exactly what you want your project to end up looking like. This can reduce changes that are often made at the last minute. Click here to view images of finished basements.
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Basement Finish Length

One of the most popular questions I receive is "How long does it take to finish my basement"? There are many different responses to this question. I have done a simple basement finish in 700 sq ft basement without paint in 2 weeks. This is working with a two man crew around the days, nights, and weekends. You really have to fly to get it done this quickly. An average basement with a few more rooms, trim upgrades, and paint usually takes about a month. If you get into a high end basement finish with tile, bathroom, shower, wet bar, media center, built in bookshelf, stairway, and stain work. Expect to spend at least 6 weeks.

Basement Ceiling ideas and design

Your basement ceiling will require creative thinking due to the duct work that runs through most basements. Other elements such as gas lines, water lines, cables, and wire can typically be moved. For these areas a soffit is created. It is important to leave as much head height as possible; without compromising the integrity of the structure.

A low cost way to finish a basement ceiling is to install a drop or suspended ceiling. A drop ceiling is not considered to be a modern way of finishing a basement ceiling. However, many people like the fact that it leaves the ceiling access able. A drywall ceiling in a basement can often be textured to leave a knock down effect. This is preferred over a popcorn texture. A smooth ceiling is possible, but does not finish well due to the amount of seams in a basement. The knock-down texture is the most common for the kansas city area.

Design for Storage

If you are like most people it is hard to find the space to put everything you would like to hold on to. The basement is usually the home to all the unused items that need to be stored. It is easy to forget about these items until you decide you would like to finish your basement. If you plan your basement finish wisely you can create additional living space while creating storage space for all your extra items. Here are a few ideas of how to create extra space in you basement.

There will always be a part of your basement that will be left unfinished. Use this space wisely, by creating as much shelving as possible. In other areas of the basement that are to be finished you should consider built in shelving. This will allow you to customize your own basement to suit your specific needs. Talk to your local contractor to see what options are available for your basement.



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Basement Flooring

Most basements in Kansas City are going to be made of concrete, unless a wood subfloor has been constructed. Here is an overview of the different options you have when finishing off a basement.

As long as you are sure you don't have any moisture problems, carpet is a good choice. This is the most popular in the johnson county area. Even if you don't have any moisture issues it is a good idea to take a few steps to help fight moisture. Installing a rubber mat instead of foam, is a good idea when finishing your basement floor. You can also coat the concrete with urethane concrete sealer or concrete paint.

If moisture is a concern, Tile may be a better option. The only drawback to tile in a basement is a cold floor for the winter. Tile in a basement makes a great runner leading into the family room. If you are installing tile in another area at the same time, it is usually an inexpensive way to upgrade your basement.

Basement Finishing

If you are planning to finish your basement in the near future, consider the addition of an egress window. It can add value to your home by creating more light and a safer finished basement. The cost of an egress window can vary, in the kansas city area you can expect to pay around $4000 for an egress. If you are planning to finish your basement you should try to include this in your budget. As a contractor I have noticed that the main reason people decide to have an egress window installed is due to local code that is required when finishing your basement. Once the window is installed, people are surprised how much light is let in through the basement. This is especially noticeable when the window is close to or above grade.