The Complete Guide to Remodeling Your Basement: How to Create New Living Space the Professional Way

Provides detailed information on remodeling a basement, including job planning, necessary materials and tools, hiring a contractor, and potential problems, and includes step-by-step instructions for the reader to do the work themselves

While the basement family room isn't quite the popular item it once was, it can still yield valuable living space in today's down-sized homes. Branson starts with a brief but useful look at basement conversion feasibility factors, i.e., moisture problems, accessibility, the presence of radon or asbestos, and potential cost return. He then covers in detail planning, tool and material selection, and the work itself from framing to painting and trim work (with only passing treatment of plumbing, heating, and electrical work). Most chapters include a work sequence photo series and an inspection checklist. While this sounds conventional enough, Branson writes with an eye for practical details that are too often overlooked. A cut above the typical home remodeling book and a good choice for most public libraries.
- Bill Demo, Tompkins Cortland Community Coll., Dryden, N.Y.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.