Thinking of transforming your musty, damp basement into a man cave or your family room? You may have the perfect design idea and even the construction know-how to carry it out.

However, the process of finishing a basement is a lot more extensive than you think. From getting the necessary permits to choosing the right insulation to examining the structural integrity of the home, there is a lot of planning you need to do.

Checklist before Finishing Your Basement

Before you begin transforming your basement from a cold cellar into your man cave or family room, there are some very important steps that you need to take. Rushing the process and cutting corners could end up costing you more money in the long run.

Check for Permits with Your Locality

If you are interested in finishing your basement, one of the first things that you should do is check with your local government. Most localities require permits for all major renovations. While you are working with your local zoning department on the permitting process, you should do this next step.

Check for Zoning Violations

You should also familiarize yourself with building codes. If your house is more than a few decades old, your basement likely has some code violations.

For instance, many older basements do not have egress windows—which allow for an adult to escape in the event of a fire. Any renovations that you do to your basement will have to meet all local building requirements.

Examine the Foundation

One of the most important elements of your basement—and your entire home—is the foundation. Before you begin putting up insulation or dry wall, you should have an inspector make sure that your foundation has maintained its integrity.

These are a few symptoms of a structurally deficient foundation to keep an eye out for:

  • Cracked or Bulging Walls
  • Slanted or Uneven Floors
  • Doors or Windows that Don’t Latch

How Does Matrix Basement Systems Help?

When you invest money and time into finishing your basement, you want to ensure that it’s done efficiently and correctly. That’s where Matrix Basement Systems can help Chicago and Michigan residents.

We have an experienced, efficient team of premier basement experts who can ensure that your basement finishing project goes smoothly and leaves you with a beautiful and functional basement for decades to come.

All you have to do to get started with a free quote is give us a call or fill out our online form!