When the cost of living space rises, every home’s inch counts. This is why many homeowners are keen on turning undesignated home areas into usable spaces.
Many homeowners choose to convert their basement into a comfortable living space. Read on to learn where to find the best drywall repair in Brandon, FL, and consider these tips to get you started.
Basement Permits and Codes
When it comes to basements, municipalities have strict rules and building codes. Insulation, moisture, and fire protection are just a few preconditions homeowners must meet. The materials used, design, and the contractors doing the work are also part of the bigger picture. Knowing the angles of the process will help you plan a budget for your project and give you realistic expectations.
Basement-friendly Materials
Finishing basement walls is done inside the already existing concrete walls. So, it requires adequate materials that will be moisture- and rot-proof. Wood treated with the ACQ chemical will diminish the rotting but be sure to use ACQ-compatible fasteners that won’t corrode. You can also use moisture-resistant drywall and install foam board insulation.
Existing Pipes and Electrical Wirings
The building code requires electrical wirings to run through the ceiling and then be dropped down the wall studs. The electrical wiring must be done by a licensed electrician who will know how many electrical outlets should be installed.
If there are existing pipes in the concrete walls, it is best to do the wall finishing by covering the pipes. It will take too much time and money to reroute pipes, so the simplest solution is to cut an inch or two from the living space instead.
Wall Finishing Components
The finished basement walls consist of several layers. Each layer is important and has its role in the basement wall finishing structure.
Moisture Barriers and Waterproofing
Water and moisture are the enemies of walls. To avoid water leakage that can damage your new walls, some preparation is due.
Namely, you want to direct water away from the walls of the house and do some exterior waterproofing. Taking care of all moisture issues by waterproofing the house will save you lots of money in the long run. Basement waterproofing indicates good air quality and no structural damage. Instead of preventing moisture, barriers are used to control moisture and its movement. These barriers are usually plastic sheets or membranes but this is not always the rule.
Insulation
Wall insulation is responsible for controlling temperature, serves as an air and vapor barrier, and can dampen the sounds. Spray foam, foam panel boards, mineral fiber batt, or fiberglass insulation are most often used during the insulation process. Preventing heat escape, fire-blocking, and adequate air sealing are just some main benefits of insulation.
Framing and Finishing Walls
Finished walls need framing as support for drywall, windows, electrical boxes, and more surfaces. To create fire-blocking, the wall is divided into small compartments. To be sure you won’t have to deal with microbial growth, treat any wood that comes into contact with the concrete.
Finishing the walls will be based on the plumbing and electrical wirings required in the basement. All it takes is creative planning to cover all wiring and plumbing – and create a visually pleasing basement.
Consult a Professional Basement Wall Finishing Provider
Drywall that’s used to cover frames comes in many versions. Let Tam Bay Construction be your next choice when you wish to turn your basement into a practical and fun living space. Offering the best drywall repair services – like drywall as a thermal barrier, or a decorative surface – our professionals can ensure your basement wall finishing is spot on and of top quality.
Learn more and contact our team to schedule an estimation.