What is the Process of a Basement Finish?

Oct 13, 2020

First, a Tradesman estimator has a brief phone conversation with the customer to make sure the customer has a realistic budget goal for their project.

Following that, a Tradesman estimator arrives onsite to take measurements and talk with the customer through their vision and budget for the project. This also includes a conversation on how to make the best use of the basement space, including how to build around certain obstacles like HVAC, electrical, or sump pump systems. Certain equipment has code requirements for clearances and access, so this is something the estimator keeps in mind.

The estimator creates a floor plan for customer review and modifies as desired. Once the floor plan is agreed upon, an estimate is generated. If the customer accepts the estimate, Tradesman follows up with a contract. If a building permit is required, necessary details will be added to the plans and submitted for approval.

Tradesman then orders time sensitive material and schedules the project. Lumber is typically delivered on the project start date.

The first step in the building process is framing, which involves perimeter walls, interior partition walls, and bulkhead framing around ductwork and plumbing. Next is electrical, plumbing, and HVAC rough-ins. Then the first inspection takes place, followed by insulation.

After that, drywall is hung and finished, starting with the ceilings. During the drywall process, the layout of the basement really comes to life!

Once the final coat is sanded, the painter comes in and paints the ceiling and walls. If by this point, a wall color has not been selected, the painter has a color wheel available for wall color selection.

Next is flooring and electrical finishes. Then, interior doors are installed along with baseboard trim and casing. Also, things like cabinetry and vanities go in at this time, if applicable to the project.

At this point the painter returns to prep and paint trim and any other finishing touches that are needed. The inspector then returns for the final inspection.