Remodeling a Basement: Step-by-step guide to finishing basements safely, from waterproofing to walls.

by Roger German

Unlock the hidden potential of your home and create a beautiful, functional living space with Remodeling a Basement.

Whether you're looking to expand your family’s living area or boost your property value, finishing your basement is a smart investment, and this guide is your blueprint for success.

Transform your basement into a space that your family will love and use for years to come. Remodeling a Revised Edition is the essential guide that brings your vision to life.

Key Inspiring Design Explore a wide range of creative concepts for transforming your basement into a comfortable oasis. From stylish family rooms to cozy bathrooms, you'll find design solutions that suit your unique style and needs. Expert Advice and Step-by-Step Written by seasoned contractor Roger German, this revised edition provides clear, accessible language, comprehensive guidance, and essential tips that ensure your remodeling project is efficient and enjoyable. Visual With valuable photos and detailed drawings, you’ll see each step of the process, making it easier to understand and execute the renovation tasks. Versatile Discover how to create functional areas, including laundry rooms, workshops, hobby rooms, and more, allowing you to maximize every inch of your home. Comprehensive From planning and design to construction and finishing touches, this book covers all aspects of basement remodeling, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to undertake your project.

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.