Basements
From installation to proper care, here's what you need to know about basements.
Navigation
How To Repair a Damaged Carrying Beam
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a homeowner how to repair some structural problems in his home.
From Bare-Bones Basement to Comfortable Family Hangout
Priority one in this reno plan: Transform a strictly utilitarian space into the family's favorite room
How To Install a Basement Laundry
Watch as Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a washer and dryer in his basement.
How to Replace Basement Bulkhead Doors
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner install a new pair of basement bulkhead doors
How To Install a Basement Bathroom
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to rough-in the drainpipes for a basement bathroom.
Basement Remodel: Mid-century Modern Guest Suite and Living Area
A finished basement suite entices friends and future grandparents in the best living space redo from the Search for America's Best Remodel 2015
Best Basements Before and Afters 2015
The editors of This Old House pick the best basement remodels from this year's annual Search for America's Best Remodel Contest
How to Install a Drain Pump for a Basement Sink
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows you how to properly install a drain pump for your basement sink.
How to Stop Your Basement From Flooding
Afraid of water in the basement? Avoid a flooding disaster with damage-prevention specialist Michael Milligan.
How To Install and Maintain a New Dehumidifier Pump
One way to handle nasty moisture buildup in your home is to install a new dehumidifier pump. Read how to complete this do-it-yourself project in our step-by-step guide.
How To Frame Walls for a Basement Room
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva walks us through how to frame walls to add a room to your basement.
How To Prevent Household Plumbing Leaks and Make Upgrades
Household plumbing leaks can quickly cause significant water damage and costly repairs. Learn how to prevent leaks in our step-by-step guide.
How To Install a Battery-Operated Backup Sump Pump
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to keep a basement dry—even when the power goes out.
3 Steps to Prevent Basement Leaks
A ruined basement upgrade is never a good surprise. Help prevent leaky mishaps with these 3 easy tips.
Refinishing Your Basement: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning to refinish your basement? This in-depth guide has everything you need to know to get the job done right.
An Unfinished Basement Gets a Masculine Makeover
An eerie, partially below-grade storage space becomes a fun and functional getaway for a hardworking dad
How to Insulate a Basement
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to warm up a chilly concrete wall
Hydraulic Cement for Leaky Basements
Using the right product for patching holes where water seeps in will save you a trip back with a wet vac and a sump pump.
Installing a Basement Sump Pump
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how involved putting in a sump pump can be
Prepping Basement Walls for Drywall
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva reviews his best practices when building out walls on a concrete foundation
Basement Bonus Rooms
In this article, we’ll guide you through inspiring basement transformations and provide practical tips for maximizing your underground space.
How to Frame Out Basement Walls
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to fur out concrete basement walls to get them ready for drywall
How to Install a Water-Powered Sump Pump
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to install an emergency backup sump pump
Water, Water Everywhere
When the basement floods, here's how to beat back the tide
How to Waterproof a Basement
In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva solves wet basement problems.
How to Clear a Clogged Drain
In this how-to video, This Old House shows various ways to clear household clogs
How to Install a Sump Pump
In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows an effective way to combat basement flooding
How to Replace a Basement Window
In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva puts in a new basement window
How To Install a Utility Sink
In this how-to video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows you how to install a utility sink
A Second Chance: From Raw Basement to Family Room
An unfinished basement goes from cold and empty to warm and cozy
Your Basement: Why Add on When You Can Add Under?
Your basement is valuable real estate, and it's an ideal place for the low-cost extra bedroom, family room or workout space you've always wanted
Spring Flood Watch
Learn how to keep your basement dry and your yard puddle-free