Basements Step-by-step projects

Building an addition to one's home is typically very expensive, so it makes sense to get as much out of the existing space as possible. Frequently underutilized, basements are a good starting point. This brief title provides ideas for updating every part of the average basement. The section on planning offers tips for designing special-purpose rooms (e.g., recreation rooms, workshops, and home offices), including many important details, such as fulfilling the requirement for an emergency exit in a basement bedroom. Chapters cover each area of the basement with brief but sufficient instructions supplemented by colorful illustrations (a few photos at the beginning of each chapter that offer some design ideas). Included are basement-specific issues such as eliminating moisture problems, adding window wells or bulkhead doors, and relocating pipes and wires, as are some tips that could be applied anywhere in the home. This series entry offers an excellent value and should be considered by most public libraries. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.