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Basement from Charlestown House

Basements

From installation to proper care, here's what you need to know about basements.

How to Insulate Your Basement

From preparation to installation, here's a how to insulate your basement.

S20 E37, Richard Trethewey gives tips to Kevin O’Connor on keeping basements dry
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Easy Solutions for a Damp Basement

Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey teaches Kevin O’Connor what he needs to know about handling wet basements.

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How to Frame Walls for a Basement Room

Partitioning off a below-grade space with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva

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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

S5 E14, Richard Trethewey shows how to unclog various drains
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How to Clear a Clogged Drain

In this how-to video, This Old House shows various ways to clear household clogs

Tom Silva teaches Kevin O’Connor how to waterproof a basement
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How to Waterproof a Basement

In this how-to video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva solves wet basement problems.

Tips for Waterproofing Your Basement

Need to stop water from coming into your basement? Use gutters, a drainage system, and interior waterproofing to keep your basement dry.

S4 E10, Richard Trethewey installs a utility sink
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How to Install a Utility Sink

In this how-to video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey installs a utility sink

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How to Repair a Damaged Carrying Beam

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a homeowner how to repair some structural problems in his home.

How to Frame Out Basement Walls

Transform your basement into a more multifunctional space by adding walls.

How to Patch a Concrete Floor

Do you have cracks in your concrete floor that need to be patched? For a long-lasting repair, pay close attention to the edges and the mix. Read on to learn how to patch the concrete on your floors.

9 Basement Ceiling Ideas

Creating a beautiful space in your basement poses certain challenges. One is the ceiling. Wondering what to do with the maze of pipes, wires, and ductwork overhead? No worries. Here are a few creative ways to dress up your basement ceiling.

Got Water in Your Crawl Space? Here’s How to Fix It

If you have water leaking into your crawl space, it’s important to address the issue quickly, as it could have serious effects on your home and health.

5 Simple Basement Storage Ideas

Whether using basement storage shelves or making use of dead space under the stairs, cleaning up clutter to stay organized is paramount to both your comfort and sanity. And with these unfinished basement storage ideas, you can make use of every bit of leftover space to further streamline your home—and your life.

The Best Flooring Options for Basements

Find the best flooring option for your basement by comparing cost, comfort, durability, appearance, and installation details.

Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Spring?

April showers bring May flowers—and up the risk of basement flooding. Follow these steps to ensure your sump pump is primed to keep your lowest level high and dry

How To Pump Water Out Of Your Basement 

Whether it’s caused by a hundred-year flood or a plumbing malfunction, no one wants a swimming pool in their basement. Here are some ways to get rid of that standing water in your basement. 

How to Get Rid of a Musty Smell in Your Basement

If musty odors are keeping you from using your basement, it’s time for that to change. With a bit of effort, you can eliminate funky smells from your below-grade spaces for good.

Wet Basement Solutions: How to Stop the Leaks From Coming

Got water in the basement? Prevent mold and other problems from occurring by using a few simple, low-cost steps.

Before and After Basement: Loft-Like Lower Level

Removing a warren of posts and partition walls opens up a bright, fun family space downstairs.

Sump pump
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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 Build a Wine Cellar in Your Basement

Need a good place to store wine? Read these steps to building a DIY wine cellar in your basement.

Sump Pump Cover

Should it be covered or sealed up to block out radon gas?

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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.

What to Know About Basement Foundation Cracks

Not every crack in a foundation wall—either concrete block or poured concrete—is cause for concern or needs to be fixed.

The Best Way to Insulate an Existing Concrete-Block Wall

Tom Silva gives some advice on insulating a brick Colonial with concrete-block walls

How to Plan for a Finished Basement

Planning to refinish your basement? This in-depth guide shares inspiring basement ideas from floor plans and wall finishings to decor.

How Do I Insulate a Basement Ceiling?

Does it make sense to insulate my basement ceiling? This Old House’s Tom Silva answers.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Basement

Got mold in your basement? Read this guide to learn how to identify and treat mold.

Sump Pump Installation in Basements, Crawl Spaces, and Exterior Drainage

Prevent basement flooding by installing and maintaining a sump pump.

How to Build a Basement Bar

A bar can be the perfect addition to anyone’s basement. Here’s what you should keep in mind when planning your subterranean entertaining oasis.

All About Basements