Ask your contractor if moving ducts and pipes might solve the problem. If you don’t have that height, you may be able to dig out and lower the concrete floor, but it’s a complex, pricey job. Many codes call for 7 to 7½ feet of clearance. Key Elements to Factor Into Your Plans Will You Need More Headroom?

Have a pro check fuel-burning equipment and your house’s ventilation system to ensure that you won’t have carbon monoxide buildup below grade.

Look across them (perpendicular to their direction) to see if any are out of line.

Check floor joists for sagging by climbing a ladder until you’re nearly eye level with the underside of the joists.

Use an awl to probe for rot and insect damage in floor joists, rim and header joists, the sill plate, and wood-framed windows.

If droplets form on top, your basement needs dehumidifying. If condensation forms underneath, your foundation’s not sealed.

Test for moisture by taping 2-foot squares of plastic sheeting to the floor and walls.

Store snacks and beverages in an area you can access without crossing in front of the TV.

The TV-viewing zone can be in a darker spot, to reduce glare and create a home-theater feel.

Bedrooms need a window for egress, so they’ll need to be located at the perimeter.

Put the main socializing area in a spot that gets the best natural light, to draw people in.

Here’s our bottom-line advice for turning this underutilized space into a place you’ll be eager to spend time in. Where Do You Start When Finishing a Basement? Treat it just as you would any of the rooms aboveground, and it might just become the most popular spot in the house-for a lot less cash than adding on. Even if it’s currently cold concrete and crammed with boxes of off-season duds, the lowest floor of your home probably has loads of potential.

Basement ideas on pinterest