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Hate your unfinished basement?

Read This If You Want to…

  • Transform your ugly unfinished basement into the BONUS living space you’ve always wanted…

  • Avoid the common pitfalls do-it-yourselfers make when finishing a basement…

  • Get expert advice on positioning walls, bars, entertainment rooms, exercise areas, bathrooms, lighting and storage spaces…

  • Find out how to hide beams, water meters, electrical panels, pipes and exposed ductwork…

  • Make sure your contractor is on the same page you are on, so you can get an accurate quote…

  • Do one simple thing to make the most of your basement and avoid costly mistakes…

  • Get many creative ideas to help you design and plan a more functional basement…
This basement remodeling, done in 2007, shows many of the design principles I give in my book, Basement Ideas
This one, done in 2006 features a full working kitchen and seating area right next to the game room
My book will teach you how to create stunning basements like this one

How to Turn Your Basement
into the BONUS Living Space
You’ve Always Dreamed Of!

Hello, I’m Dave Schrock, America’s Basement Design Expert and president of Basement Spaces, Incorporated. So what makes me an expert, you may ask?

First and foremost, I’m a licensed contractor in Illinois. And I have designed over 1,300 basements since 1994. Basements are the only projects I work on.

Moreover, I’ve been interviewed on CBS news and CNN/FNN. As you may know, it is virtually impossible to get invited onto these news shows unless you are seen as an expert.

Plus, I’ve also contributed many in-depth articles on basement design in over 27 major publications. Publications like Better Homes and Gardens, Extreme How-To, Money magazine and Chicago Tribune just to name a few.

Please understand I don’t say all this to impress you. But to impress upon you that I have 16-years of Basement Design experience. And, I hope by now, you agree that I’ve provided ample proof. Enough proof for you to take me seriously.

So, even if you have never designed a basement before…

You Can Easily Do it With My
Proven Step-By-Step Guide

That’s right. In fact, it’s quite easy once you know how.

And, it will be easy because I’m the author of the newly updated "Basement Ideas: A primer of basics for finishing your basement."

This one-of-a-kind publication provides 82-pages of basement design ideas and tips you can use right now to stimulate your creativity. Better yet, it’s loaded-to-the-gills with dozens and dozens of photos. And, as you look at these amazing photos, I want you to ask yourself:

"How can I apply this design to my basement?"

And…

"Will this work for me?"

The bottom line is that once you go through "Basement Ideas," you can expect to design and plan your…

  • Ceilings…

  • Home theater and gaming area…

  • Bar space…

  • Bathroom…

  • Bedroom and home office…

  • Fitness center…

  • Lighting…

  • Stairways, and…

  • Storage.

With "Basement Ideas" by your side, you will get information specifically on how to easily lay out your design ideas on paper to…

See What Your New Basement Will
Look Like Before It’s Finished

When you plan your basement carefully, your reward is a snapshot of how your basement will look when it is finished. So instead of wishful thinking, you’ll turn a vacant and under-utilized area into a beautiful and functional space. And that’s why this section will teach you:

  • How to design your space using inexpensive ¼'' square graph paper or if you are computer savvy use… (continued on page 6)

  • The A-B-C formula for making sure ALL the contractors are on the same page when you specify the number of lights, outlets and wall locations. Page 6

  • What to do if you have trouble visualizing what your finished space will look like. It is quick and easy. Page 7

  • The correct way to guess the angle of walls that meet at odd angles. It takes less than 5-seconds. (See page 7)

  • When you include the windows, doors, outlets, plumbing and posts in your drawing, it will help you decide the best locations for… (continued on page 7)

  • What to do if your ductwork is scattered around the ceiling. A simple method helps you relocate ductwork closer to a beam. Page 8

  • Hot water pipes in older homes can’t be moved or rerouted to increase headroom, right? Wrong! Page 8 shows how.

  • The absolute worst thing to do when you have drain pipes running along a perimeter wall. See page 10

  • RULE OF THUMB for room dimensions: Anything less than 8’ wide makes your room look and feel more like a closet. To find out which type of look gives you more options, see page 10

  • The type of engineer and two contractors you MUST hire if you want to get rid of a post that’s in the middle of the room. Page 11

  • Why talking to a realtor can help you decide if it is really worth it to break up the floor, dig down and install a new floor—to create more headroom. Page 11.

  • PLUS — How to tie together the various "mechanicals:" Sump pits, water meters and furnace rooms, so it all looks logical and flows smoothly. Page 8

And that’s just the beginning…

The Great Debate: Drop or
Drywall Ceilings?

The great debate about basement ceilings is between drop and drywall ceilings. Some people favor a drop ceiling because you have ACCESS.

On the other hand, a drywall ceiling can cover up pipes and wires. I could go on and on as far as the pros and cons for each type of ceiling.

Remember – the ceiling finish creates a particular look and feel in the room. As a result, the desired look you want in the room may be your chief reason behind choosing one type of ceiling over another.

Here’s a small 'taste' of what you will learn in this section:

  • What to do if you want your basement ceiling to look exactly like the rest of your home. Page 51

  • Why a drywall ceiling is cheaper and better than a drop ceiling. For starters, a suspended ceiling eventually sags. Plus — you’ll have less headroom than a drywall ceiling. Other little-known facts revealed on pages 51-53

  • Quick and easy way to save any markings you make on the floor, especially if you are a messy drywaller. This simple technique makes cleanup a breeze. Page 52

  • Which type of precaution prevents a fire from traveling to other parts of your home. Page 53

  • How to successfully mix ceiling types—especially if you have plumbing and heating mechanisms you want easy access to (See page 53)

How would you like to enjoy and relax in your own…

Dedicated Home Theater and
Game Room Area

Are you thinking about dedicating an entire room to "entertainment?" Well, the latest trend is to put it all in a single room.

Not surprisingly, a successful home theater depends more on careful space planning and layout than anything else. And, the bottom line on basement game rooms is this:

I recommend that you first measure your basement space and have a general design plan in mind. And once you’ve surveyed your space, your next step is to start thinking about what kind of games you want that will best fit.

Now, here’s what you will discover in this section:

  • Beautiful examples of custom entertainment centers to give you plenty of ideas (See pages 30-32)

  • The one thing you should NEVER do when you buy speaker wire for your home theater system. Page 30

  • One easy way to wire your rear and side speakers. Page 30

  • A simple solution for not getting locked into one location for your TV and phone connections. Amazing but true. Page 30

  • A WORD OF CAUTION: If you plan to buy a wall-mounted plasma TV, make sure you build a… (continued on page 30)

  • Best way to avoid damaging the walls with your cue sticks. Here’s the minimum amount of space you’ll need for a standard 4’ x 8’ pool table. Page 28

  • When you have the length but not the width for a pool table, what are your options? Put in a ping pong table, pinball machine, air hockey and foosball tables, video games computer gaming stations, juke box, etc. (See page 29)

There’s so much more you will learn in "Basement Ideas!" In fact, from this moment on…

You’ll Never Get a DUI in
Your Own Sports Bar!

I thought that would put a smile on your face. Kidding aside, here’s a summary of what you will soon find out in the bar design section:

  • What two questions MUST you answer before you design your bar area. Page 21

  • How to make your bar appear bigger than it really is. Less than one-in-ten do-it-yourselfers know this. Page 24

  • What to do in addition to putting up cabinets against a wall if you are tight on bar space. Page 25

  • An easy way to prevent a sloping floor from causing alignment problems when you install a brass foot rail. Page 27

  • How to turn an insulated closet with an air conditioner into a beautiful wine cellar. It’s very easy to do (See page 23)

  • What rolls on four wheels and your teenagers will enjoy using it for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks. Page 26

But that’s not all… far from it!

Eliminate Countless Trips
Up and Down the Stairs By
Putting in a Bathroom

If you want to eliminate countless trips up and down the stairs, a family bathroom should be on your wish list. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be large.

In fact, a half-bath will do quite nicely. After all, a bathroom can usually be tucked away in a corner. Obviously, you’ll want to put it in a spot that doesn’t open directly into the family room.

As you might guess, there are many things to consider when deciding where to put your bathroom. And, it is best to know this—even if you hire a plumber to do the actual work. So do yourself a favor.

Check out the "Basement Ideas" bathroom section if you want to know:

  • Which are the best locations for a bathroom. Believe it or not, you can put in a bathroom anywhere you want. All you have to do is install an ejector pit (a simple plumbing device) and pump to make any location work. More information on page 64

  • The minimum dimensions for a powder room or a full bathroom with a shower unit. Page 64.

  • Do this one simple thing when you design your bathroom to avoid future embarrassment. Page 65

  • What to do with your bathroom's fixtures if you want to make the plumber's job easier and less expensive for you (See page 64)

And that’s really just the half of it!

In-Laws and Guests Love
Your New Bedroom!

Most people who visit this website have an extra bedroom at or near the top of their wish list. Not surprisingly, they want it for their visiting in-laws and guests.

Of course, the new suite can’t be its own apartment without the proper permits. But, it can come close. Real close. In fact, an extra bedroom can restore some sense of privacy to your home. In this section, you will discover:

  • WARNING: You must have an escape window or a walk-out in your bedroom. It is the law. Page 55

  • The single most important device that MUST be inside your bedroom or located a short distance from the doorway (See page 55)

  • BONUS TIP #1: How to make your bedroom easily double as an office space, too. Page 55

  • BONUS TIP #2: How to create a fully functional home office space you’ll enjoy for many years. Page 57

  • BONUS TIP #3: Example of how to use an existing wall recess to get more usable space in your home office (See page 56)

  • BONUS TIP #4: Do-it-yourselfers make this common mistake when they put in a closet. They forget to put an egress window in their office! When you put in a closet, it is considered a sleeping area. And, by law, you MUST have an egress window.

And then there’s this…

Simply Walk Down a Flight of
Stairs to Your Very Own Gym, Open
24-Hours a Day, 7-Days a Week!

I can’t think of a quicker way to get into beach-body shape than putting in a well-designed home gym in your basement.

Just imagine all the time you save when you can stop driving to the health club. What’s more, you will never have to wait in line to use a piece of equipment. And, I almost forgot: Just think how much money you will save on membership fees and gas because your health club is now downstairs!

As soon as you go through the Home fitness section, you will know:

  • An easy 3-step system for designing the perfect basement fitness center. Follow these three simple steps to avoid serious problems later. Page 60

  • How your fitness goals and equipment selection affect your required room dimensions and ceiling heights. Page 60

  • Why you may be better off investing in exercise equipment that is bolted together versus welded together. Page 60

  • The popular piece of exercise equipment you should NEVER buy if you have a low ceiling (See page 61)

  • If you want to keep your workout area smelling clean and fresh, use rubber flooring—especially if you will sweat a lot. Complete details on page 61

  • How to outfit a home fitness room to complement the type of exercise you already do (See pages 61-62)

  • 7 easy ways to spice up the fitness room to create an upbeat atmosphere. This makes your workouts fun and motivating. Page 62

  • Do one simple thing to make sure you use proper form when you lift free weights. It is a fundamental part of a fitness space and offers several other benefits. Page 62

  • FREE TIP: If you haven’t used a piece of exercise equipment that you are thinking about buying, try this little trick. Take out a two-week membership at your local gym, so you can try it out. As a result, you will make a more informed buying decision.

The best is yet to come…

Your Family, Friends and Neighbors Think You Spent a Million-Dollars on Your Lighting—But You Didn’t Because of the Secrets You’ll Soon Discover

No doubt about it, lighting is an easy way to create an interesting, comfortable and appealing design solution for your basement.

And, when the lighting is done right, your basement can look like you’ve invested a million-dollars! Of course, you didn’t because I will teach you:

  • The three categories of basement lighting are general, task and accent lighting. Placement and types of light solely depend on obstructions in the room, personal preference and… (continued on page 43)

  • What three things MUST you do with your task lighting to prevent accidents and reduce eye strain. Page 43

  • When you want to wow your neighbors, stick a sconce light in an otherwise dim corner. More information on page 44

  • A code requirement says you can only use this kind of lighting in your closet. It gives off very little heat. To find out which one, see page 44

  • General rules of thumb for lighting your basement. For example, use a 6'' recessed can light for approximately every 36 square feet of floor space. But this formula is not set in stone. It varies based on the height of your ceiling and two other important criteria. What are they? See page 44

Wait, there’s more because you’ll also find out…

How to Make Your Stairway
an Eye-Opening Entrance to
Your New Basement

First impressions are important. And that’s why the stairs should set the tone for your entire basement. So if you want to really make an eye-opening statement with your entrance, you will love the section I put together. For starters, you will discover:

  • The one simple thing you can do to your handrail to keep your clothing from getting caught. Many city codes require it (See page 47)

  • How to introduce a little flair into your basement stairway without an expensive baluster and spindle system. Page 48

  • The little-known solution to getting most furniture down a very tight staircase. You’ll find the answer on page 49

  • How to incorporate a support post at the bottom of the stairs that’s beautiful and functional. Page 47

I’m not through yet…

Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Creating the Perfect Storage Space

By now, you’re probably wondering how much does "Basement Ideas" cost? Before I surprise you, let me quickly tell you about one more design idea you’ll learn in either the downloadable book or CD.

It is the section on how to provide ample and appropriate storage for your STUFF. Actually, it is one of our most popular sections because everyone can use more closet space. You know, closet space to store your kids’ toys, off season clothes, holiday items, etc.

For all these reasons, you’ll probably want to create closet space and unfinished storage areas in your basement.

After all, a mix of storage options—drawers, bins, shelves, chests and cubbies—ensures that everything will have its proper place. With "Basement Ideas" by your side, you’ll know:

  • How to design a shelving unit, so it doubles as a doorway to a hidden storage area. Page 36

  • Why you should never use melamine material for your shelving. Use this durable material instead. Page 34

  • How to create adjustable shelving without using a lot of expensive brackets. Page 34

  • A much better alternative to shelves if your kids have a lot of toys (See page 34)

  • Two simple ways to reach unfinished crawlspaces. One way prevents the walls from getting damaged. (See page 35 for complete details)

And here’s the best news of all…

So What’s This Going to Cost?

"Basement Ideas" is, without a doubt, the most authoritative source on basement design ideas.

And, you can get all the simple design ideas and tips in the newly updated downloadable book for the insanely low price of just $17.95. But the good news doesn’t end there.

For an additional two-dollars, you can get the best-selling "Basement ideas" on CD for only $19.95. That’s less than you’d pay for a nice dinner at a restaurant — making it a screaming bargain.

And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, here are some other perks exclusively for new customers that order my "Basement Ideas" on CD today:

First of all, you’ll enjoy a fun and interactive version of "Basement Ideas." Included are two in depth case studies, short video clips and web links to more information and resources. And to top it off…

This hot-off-the-press CD also includes the Basement Explorer software… FREE
(a $17.95 value)
when you order today.

In your FREE Basement Explorer software, you get hundreds of additional photos, plans and secret tips to inspire your creativity. As if that’s not enough, I also include an in depth analysis of 30 of our finished basements! And, you get all these extra bonuses for a couple more bucks. That’s it.

Now, consider this: If I designed your basement as a private client, you’d pay over $1,000.00, and many do. But, I no longer seek new basement design clients because I’m very busy servicing my website customers. As you can see, I give you many basement design ideas and FREE bonuses for only $19.95.

Why So Cheap?

"Basement Ideas" is one of the least expensive products I have ever introduced. But, why am I willing to sell it so inexpensively—when the information in it can help you transform your unfinished basement into a beautiful living space?

For two reasons:

  1. I’m confident that if you implement my design suggestions, you’ll create the kind of basement you’ll be proud of. And, you’ll become a customer-for-life. Which means, you’ll probably buy some of my other products and new ones as they come out. Bottom line, I’m making an investment in our relationship.

  2. During this economy, I want to help as many people as possible finish their basement. After all, it’s one of the most economical ways to add value to your home and quality of life.

Try "Basement Ideas" Risk-Free
for 365 Days and Then Decide

You’ll be pleased to know there’s no risk or commitment of any kind. So if you are not 100% happy with "Basement Ideas" for any reason or for no reason at all—just let me know within 365 days for a prompt refund.

That way, you risk nothing!

But I’m confident you’ll find "Basement Ideas" to be so different and so useful and so valuable, you’ll feel guilty about how little you paid, and you’ll probably send me a glowing testimonial to thank me. Just like the ones on the right side of this page.

If you’ve come this far, I think you’ll agree I’ve given you many good reasons to get your very own copy of "Basement Ideas." So let me ask you…

Is it fair to say you will invest many thousands-of-dollars on your basement project whether you do it yourself or hire a contractor? If so, investing a few bucks for hard-to-find, expert advice that guarantees you will create a beautiful space is a no brainer.

So what are you waiting for?

To order "Basement Ideas" on a risk-free trial basis, just click below. You’ll be glad you did.

Here’s to a great basement!


Dave Schrock
America’s Basement Design Expert

 

You have 2 choices to order

1 . Download Basement Ideas now - $17.95

YES I want an instant download of this essential book for only $17.95 so I can start learning the secrets of a great basement right away

- OR -

2. Order the book on CD right now - $19.95
and get a FREE copy of Basement Explorer
(a $17.95 value)

YES Please send me Basement Ideas on CS, as well as the FREE Basement Explorer software so I can save $17.95 on these two essential basement design tools.  Just $19.95 for both

 

 


Dave Schrock
Basement Design Expert

Your Book Was The Only Reference I Needed!

Download the full story with pictures here:

– Jesse McCool
Mendon, Massachussets

Your Book Inspired Us

"Your book inspired us to create a wallboard ceiling against everyone else's suggestions. We also cut out the wall on the staircase, similar to your pictures, to create an open airy feeling.

We have a basement that is absolutely beautiful and amazing to live in. Thanks for your suggestions and experience. It made all the difference in our project."

– Terry Wildemann
Middleton, Rhode Island

Now we have a beautiful living space the whole family enjoys

"When we first decided to finish our basement we had a general idea on how we wanted it to look but weren't positive on some of the details to make our vision a reality, that was until we purchased "Basement Ideas".

After searching multiple websites for help we purchased the download version from your site, after reading the book and viewing the pictures it gave us the inspiration and determination we needed to complete our basement project.

Your book was fun to read with easy and well explained examples for all applications, we were able to take those examples and incorporate the details into owr own design which turned out great. Before we finished our basement we had 1,400 square feet of unused space because it was cold, dark and gloomy.

Now we have a beautiful living space the whole family enjoys that is warm, bright and comfortable.

Thank You."

– Travis & Angel Soderberg
Buxton, North Dakota

Our Basement Project Cost Less and Took Less Time

"Without a doubt, your book was worth every penny. We finished an 1,800 square foot basement and doubled the size of our living space. We did use a home design program and put all of the ideas we got from your book into the program — everything from the refrigerator hidden under the stairs, to the location and number of recessed lights, to the paint design.

I am convinced that our basement project cost less and took less time because we were able to show our contractor exactly what we wanted based on the ideas we got from your book.

So we were thrilled with our project because there were no surprises. I can’t imagine anyone undertaking a project of this magnitude without using your book. A small investment that paid us back many times."

– Ellen Rassiger
Huntington Station, New York

Your Book Was VERY Helpful

"Thanks for your fast response. I am a contractor in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. Your book was VERY helpful to me and will be a great tool for me to use with my clients. I plan to have them read through it, so they understand the many different avenues we can take in the layout of their basement.

Thanks for putting your knowledge down in writing and sharing it with many!"

– Chris Bales
Cincinnati, Ohio

It Was Great!

"I actually bought the download version of your basement ideas, and it was great. My husband might disagree, because it made me go a little gung ho, and I started ripping down a wall to access under the stairwell to make a cool area for the kids!"

– Amy Foster
Owego, New York

Your Book Turned Our Ideas Into Reality

"I am putting the finishing touches on my basement remodel job that was inspired by your publication. Once my wife and I decided to jump in and tackle the job, we looked for as many sources of information as we could find. Your book helped us turn our thoughts and ideas into reality. Thank you for the help. I've included a few photos for your review."

– G. Scott Murray
Buffalo, New York

Found Your Guide Very Helpful

"This is a great reference guide – very nicely done. My husband is pretty handy, but gets somewhat stalled in the "planning" stages of a large project. Yet is finding your guide very helpful.

Thanks for the follow-up and thanks for sharing your experience and skill!"

– Bridget H.
Souderton, Pennsylvania

I Love Your Ideas

"I stumbled across your website while looking for info about basement systems. You have a great site and it was very refreshing for me to see it! I love your ideas, especially how to keep the basement open yet divided into areas.

Our basement will have two or three sections. Until now, we had struggled with how to split it up – yet we didn't want to have compartments separated by walls. The "half-wall with an opening" idea is very appealing to me."

– Rick Hill
Cleveland, Ohio

You Have a Wonderful Product

"You have a wonderful product and I can not wait to start putting it into full force for my remodel of an 1889 Historical Home. I have been following your website for over a year now and decided now is the time.

I do keep a blog and intend on not only writing about the journey but your programs and ideas as well.

Again, thank you for the update and I look forward to working with you on my project! Touching lives one minute, one day, one flame at a time…"

– Maria Wallace
Huntsville, Alabama

I Have No Problem Giving You References and Referrals

"Hi Dave! It was a pleasure working with you and all your guys as well! Everyone whose heard me talk about the experience we've had with all of you can hardly believe it, because there are so many horror stories out there!

You guys are all top notch and I'll have no problem giving any of you references or referrals!"

– Paul and Kim Mehring
Elmhurst, Illinois

It Has Saved Me Time And Money

"Basement Ideas… What a Great Concept! Buying this book was one of the best values during my whole basement project.

Here in one place are all the questions, ideas, and tips that one can use when planning their basement remodel. Reading through it made me ponder things I did not consider, i.e. concealing doorways, changing ductwork, window framing alternatives, alternate lighting ideas, creative framing for certain basement areas, basement bars and kitchens, and more.

Plus, I found the pictures very useful in planning the final look of my basement. I looked at many ideas from many sources but in the end, it was Basement Ideas that gave me the ideas I needed and used.

Specific items that helped me were Dave's discussion of using drywall for the ceiling, entertainment wiring ideas, stairway finishes, bar spaces, and protecting my investment. His discussion and tips were always well explained and logical.

I finally completed my basement project this past spring and I am very happy with the result. I am glad that I used Basement Ideas for my project. It has saved me time, money, and provided me with the information and ideas I needed for a great basement!"

– Kristi Misic
Sycamore, Illinois

I Got So Many Great Ideas

"I spent many hours reading and reviewing your Basement Ideas book. I got so many great ideas that turned our 2000 sq ft basement into a beautiful living space!

My husband and I loved the bar that was featured in the book. We gave the book to our contractor to study and build a bar very similar to the one in your book. I would have never been able to come up with such great ideas to make our basement exactly what we wanted.

Furthermore, I never realized how difficult it was to convert a very large room into four different sections without walls. The ideas of doing that with flooring worked so well for us in the bar area, and the arrangement of furniture was a great way to make separations.

By the way, my husband started the basement project with a bedroom and an exercise room at the end of last year. He has a bad back, so we hired men to do the heavy labor for the rest of the basement, although he did all the electric and we both painted and stained. I wanted plastered ceilings and he wanted suspended ceilings, after showing him the book about creating access panels he agreed. That made such a huge difference in the appearance, making it look so open and roomy!

Your book made me address many problems and solutions that I'm sure I would never have even thought of myself, giving us a beautiful and well planned space. All the ideas from the lighting to insulation, extra plugs and cable lines...just in case we want to change things later were so helpful.

I have looked and bought so many home improvement books, but I found your book to be the best to help me, who had no experience, to design and plan the greatest finished basement! Thank you so much for that!"

– Teryl McGough
Blairsville, Pennsylvania




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