Build a Basement Bathroom
Basement bathrooms are a good use of otherwise dead space. Many families have realized the potential of converting a basement into multi-purpose areas like game rooms or wet bars, and even sleeping quarters. But the latest trend of building a bathroom in the basement presents unique challenges.
Contents
Steps
- Determine your level of competency. If you intend to build the bathroom yourself, you should have previous plumbing, electrical and carpentry experience. If you lack any construction ability, you will need to acquire this crucial knowledge or hire a contractor to tackle the project. At this phase, you should decide how much, if any, of the work you will perform.
- Contact the appropriate authorities. When converting a basement to accommodate a bathroom, you must adhere to strict zoning ordinances and deed restrictions, where applicable. While general building codes and guidelines are fairly standard, check with your local building inspector at the city hall offices to be sure if a building permit and/or certificate of occupancy is required.
- Estimate the size. How much square footage the bathroom will occupy depends on the amount of space you're willing or able to surrender, as well as the type of fixtures you're planning to incorporate. Do you prefer a full bathtub, or a stand-up shower, or a half bath with only a commode and sink? You'll also need to know the size to position the bathroom in the best possible location.
- Draw the floor plan. With a clear concept of the square footage and arrangement of the fixtures, plan to build the bathroom in proximity to existing water and drainage pipes. This is critical in order to limit wasting materials and avoid potential problems detecting leaks, for example. It's also extremely important to never remove load-bearing walls from a basement without the advice of an expert.
- Purchase the materials. The bathroom is a combination of design and practicality. In addition to the components of a typical room consisting of walls, ceiling, lighting, and other basics, the functionality and safety of a bathroom must not be overlooked. Water-resistant drywall, washer-less faucets, and low-water-consumption fixtures are industry standard.
- One critical challenge to overcome when determining how to build a basement bathroom is drainage. Typical bathrooms use gravity to drain sewage and wastewater. But for an underground bathroom, you'll need to purchase specially designed equipment designed to defy gravity. These upflush toilet systems make building a bathroom in your basement much easier.
- Prepare the construction site. Plumbing, framing, laying floor covering material, wiring, and the like should all be done using standard construction methods. Be sure to allow the building inspector to pass all work at every step. After you've learned how to build a basement bathroom, you can reap the benefits for years to come.
Tips
- Use plenty of light and bright colors to impede feelings of claustrophobia.
Warnings
- Since your basement may not have windows, ventilation is more important than in a standard bathroom.
- Moisture in basements can cause extensive damage, and also pose a health hazard. Any water-related problems must be stopped before building a basement bathroom.
- Adding additional water pipes to a basement presents a greater risk of leaks and breakage. Take every precaution to prevent the pipes from freezing in the winter.
Related Articles
- Design a Finished Basement
- Plumb a Bathroom
- Install a Basement Toilet
- Repair a Concrete Floor
