Remodeling a Basement: Revised Edition

by Roger German

If you're interested in expanding the usable living space in your home ―and boosting its value ― finishing your basement is a smart way to make it happen.

In this new and revised edition of Remodeling a Basement , you'll find a wide range of inspiring design ideas for turning your basement into a comfortable, functional space the whole family can enjoy.

From cover to cover, you'll get all the expert advice, inside tips, and step-by-step instructions you'll need to make your vision a reality. All brought to you in clear, accessible language ― and lots of valuable photos and drawings ― by a consummate professional.

In this comprehensive volume―the latest in our popular Build Like A Pro series ―professional contractor Roger German takes you through the entire process of remodeling a basement.

From family rooms, bathrooms and laundry rooms to workshops and hobby rooms, he shows you how to build a whole new level of comfort into your house.

Here's an example of the timely, in-depth information you'll find: For proactive homeowners and contractors alike, this updated reference book is the only resource you'll need to get the job done right the first time.

Genres: Home Improvement, Reference, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2004

Reviews

[Kim Taehyung · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is lots of construction beginner talk here. It was very light on the basement-specific details. What I was hoping for was "for a basement, you need to do ___." However, most of the book was more along the lines of "here is how you do this remodeling task." Useful, sure, but I struggle to find the value in a book specifically about basements that focuses so heavily on generic work.
The bits about planning, estimating, and ideas were very useful to me.
The worst part about this book, however, and why I can only give it 3 stars is because of the format. The author confesses to using photos obtained during student projects. It shows! Many of the photos feel like they are a stretch to use in a certain area. Many areas where a photo would really help a description, it's absent. I appreciate the fact that these were all taken from real projects, but more importantly the photos should be relevant!
I have yet to purchase it, but I have already flipped through the Black & Decker book at Lowe's several times picking out things this book blatantly misses. Its photos are so much cleaner and clearer because they're staged. Yes, I know this isn't realistic, but when you're trying to convey a point, the lack of distractions help! I would recommend the B&D over this book. Even though I haven't purchased it yet, I will because it has very good and precise information in it.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is for the hardcore DIY'er. The author gives many examples of what "students" have done, so I'm guessing he teaches what he's written about.

Someday in the future, when we finish our basement, I may get this back from the library again to refresh my memory on all his expertise.

Every two pages, the upper left corner has an "expert tip" - they are worth paying attention to!

[Erin Stuhlsatz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives the DIY remodeler good tools for planning and executing a remodel. I especially liked the example timeline and the hints for what needs to be completed before you even start thinking about demo'ing.

[Travis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super helpful when we were doing our basement. I think even construction work can be a spiritual event.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical and direct instructions on how to finish a basement.