Office: (610) 494-0155
Basement fit-outs and finishing:
To ensure a successful outcome for your basement finishing or fit-out project, be sure you get a permit from your local building department otherwise you may get stuck with hefty fines from your town. Local inspectors require you to abide by specific codes for safety purposes, like having an egress for an escape route in case of a fire. If you live in a flood zone, it may be required to install a sump pump. Most codes require at least 7 feet of clearance from the basement floor to the bottom of the floor joists. If ductwork or soffits project lower than 7 feet than it's unlikely that you'll get a permit.
Check that all foundations cracks, water leaks, dry rot, mold, mildew, have been located, removed, and repaired. Make sure there is extra space in your breaker panel to accommodate your basement's outlets, switches, and lighting, otherwise it may need to be upgraded by an electrician. Find out what HVAC air supply is required for the remodeled basement and if your furnace can meet the air exchange demands. Most newer homes furnace systems meet the needs for new basements, but have the system checked by a HVAC professional.
If you're planning on having a basement bath, bar, or laundry sink installed check to see if your basement has been pre-plumbed with a toilet drain, tub-shower drain, and a vent stack. If the rough-ins don't exist jack-hammering will need to done through the concrete floor to lay drain lines. Additional hot and cold supply lines will have need to be installed along with an exhaust fan and vent line.
Draw up a rough plan of how'd you like your basement to be laid out, take pictures, then draw a more detailed plan on grid paper with 1/4" squares. Draw where you want the framing, windows, ductwork, plumbing lines, drop ceilings, and electrical outlets to be. Do you want insulation? Pick out your paint color, door hardware, trim, flooring, carpeting, lighting, and bath accessories. Once this has been done you can submit your plans to your local city building department for a stamped approval.
We can assist you with your plans, permits, project planning, and contracting to eliminate any lost time you may loose in unsuccessful attempts by the do-it-yourselfer.
Give Thomas a call if you have questions at: (610) 291-6221