Basement Finishing Guide - Finished Basements Plus
Finished Basement in South Lyon, MI with carpeting and a stone accent wall with fireplace

A guide to creating your dream basement

What to do and what not to do when finishing your basement

Expert Advice

The purpose of our book is to provide you knowledge and best practices for finishing your basement the right way!

Dos and Don’ts

Let our experience save you time and money, we have seen it all and have learned what it takes to create a basement that will last a lifetime.

Get Your Free Copy

Our Basement Specialists will bring along a copy of the book to give you during your free consultation.

Every free in-home consultation includes a copy of our Basement Finishing 101 book.

Q: When should I start planning my basement finishing project?

A: This is a great question.  Many people know when they want their project to be completed because of an upcoming event like a new baby, holidays or house guests.  You need to consider the construction time, back log of the contractor (when can the contractor start), how long does it take to get the quote and design, how long does the selection process take, when can you have the basement cleaned out and ready for construction. With all that being considered we recommend that you start planning 6-8 months prior to your desired completion date.


Q: How much does a finished basement cost?

A: This is a very common question and it is very difficult answer. Since each project is unique in size and scope of work we quote each project individually. When we have a design and scope of work identified we will then do a take-off to determine how many square feet of floor and ceiling, how many lineal feet of walls and other components will be required. At that point we will put a custom quote together for you.


Q: Do you offer free basement finishing estimates?

A: Yes, actually we offer a free consultation. That means we will gladly come to your home and talk about your wants and needs for your basement finishing project and how we can help. If after our first meeting you feel like we are a company you would like to do business with we will create a plan and proposal for you to review.


Q: Can you help me design and create a layout for my basement remodel?

A: Yes, in fact this is where our experience is a huge advantage. We have designed thousands of basements and we have experienced, certified designers on staff to create a great basement design that flows and feels like the upstairs of you home.


Q: Do you supply all the materials or do I need to get them?

A: Yes, we supply all the building material, plumbing fixtures, recessed lights, cabinets, counter tops and flooring.  Because there are so many options to choose from, we will have you supply a couple of items like wall or ceiling mounted lights and cabinet hardware.


Q: How long does it take to build a finished basement?

A: Since each basement is unique this is a difficult question to answer. A very simple basement finish might only take four weeks of construction time while a more complicated basement finish could take 12+ weeks to construct. At Finished Basement Plus you will have 24/7 access to your construction schedule and you can see when your project will complete.


Q: What type of flooring should I use in my basement?

A: We highly recommend vinyl flooring.  However, this isn’t your grandma’s vinyl flooring.  Our vinyl floor comes in two beautiful styles (Ceramic Tile and Wood Plank) with several color choices. Check out our photo gallery for examples.


Q: How do I avoid mold in my basement?

A: That’s a very good question. Basements are naturally humid spaces since they are constructed underground and surrounded by porous concrete walls and floor. With that being said you must be sure not to build your basement with the wrong materials that support mold growth (wood, fiberglass and drywall).  In addition you must control the humidity in your basement with an air system that not only dehumidifies, but also cleans the air with an air scrubber.


Q: Why should I use non-organic materials to finish my basement?

A: The environment in your basement is much different than the upstairs of your home. With that being said non-organic materials will not support mold growth. In the event that you have a water event from your concrete walls, floors or a mechanical failure, your basement will not be susceptible to mold growth and most components will not need to be replaced.


Q: What is the “stack effect”?  Why is it important to me?

A: The stack effect (also known as the chimney effect) is simply air coming in and out of your home.  Warm air rises and escapes out the roof as new cool air enters in the basement.  This is important because if the air in your basement is moldy, then the mold spores are being drawn up to and spread around the upper floors of your home.


Q: Do you have employees or subcontractors doing the work?

A: Both. We have in house installation crews and logistics crews. Also, we do have several licensed and insured subcontractors we work with. They work with us day in and day out, so we call them trade partners. Most have worked with us for over 15 years, and they are part of our team. Check our meet the team page.


Q: Who will be running my basement finishing project?

A: When you choose Finished Basements Plus to finish your basement you will first be assigned to a Project Developer. Your Project Developer will go through the plan and make final plan adjustments as well as assist you in selecting all of the color and material choices. You will then meet your Project Manager. In addition to running all aspects of your project, your Project Manager will be your contact for any questions or concerns you might have.


Q: Do I need an egress window?

A: State code in Michigan does not require an egress window while undergoing alterations unless you are adding sleeping rooms. However each local building department has the right to interpret the code however they see fit. With that being said it is always best to check with your local building department.


Q: Do you pull the building permit?

A: Yes, we will pull all the permits necessary to build your project (Building Permit, Plumbing Permit, Electrical Permit & HVAC Permit)


Q: Do you offer financing?

A: Yes we do, please ask out Basement Specialist about our current financing offerings.