What is a basement without a wall? Although it’s a space in your house that is not often used or visited, it still needs durable and attractive-looking walls, which usually require drywall. But what if there is no drywall and you want to apply a finish coat to it? There are options to consider, including home improvement techniques for finishing basement walls without drywall, those that can be do-it-yourself. One option is to use engineered wood or oriented strand board (OSB) as an alternative to gypsum. Wood veneer is another option that can provide an appealing finish.
The positive thing about having no drywall when finishing your basement is that there is more space in your home and instantly, the aesthetic value of your property also goes up. Details about the alternatives to finishing your basement without drywall and more will be discussed below. Oriented strand board is one such alternative for finishing basement walls without wood.
Alternative Ways to Finish Basement Walls
It’s still possible to finish a basement without drywall which brings some positive effects. The only challenge to this is when the basement becomes prone to condensation. In that case, here are some of the things to consider when planning to finish your basement, such as the health of the soil.
Identify the type of basement walls that you already have
You can choose the best material for your basement if you are aware of the type used for the current wall of your basement.
Masonry Walls
This type of wall contains a rough texture because of the cinder blocks put together in several joints.
Poured Concrete
Most unfinished basement walls use poured concrete which appears flat and grey. This type sometimes shows some small cracks that may affect the result of finishing it.
Exposed Brick
Most older homes have this feature that also have a brick foundation. In that case, choose to clean and seal your bricks instead of covering them up.
Despite these options, painting the walls remains the easiest and the most affordable way to treat your basement walls. Paint can enhance the ambiance of your basement, but it cannot hide the cracks and the real texture of the cement wall beneath it.
Finishes that Don’t Require Having Drywall
Hiring a basement pro should not prevent you from knowing about the various types of finishes for the drywall you have in your basement. Here are some of the most common finishes to choose from.
1. Pegboard
This pressed wood material is good for workshop areas and tool storage. It has evenly spaced holes and can also hold pegs for storage. The disadvantage of using this, though, is its low visual appeal.
2. Basement Panels
Basement panels are a combination of a layer of framing, foam insulation, and drywall that also comes with premade holes to allow for electrical wiring and plumbing. Basement panels can create a more finished look and protect your basement from moisture. However, the space in your basement may be decreased because the walls it creates are thick.
3. Fabrics
Famous and a favorite of people who want both extra space and a customized look for the walls of their basement; fabrics like curtains and tapestry can be glued to the walls and be of the same length as the walls. Adding this kind of covering to your walls is simple to do and can even create a warm feeling in your basement. Just remember to seal the wall because you want to avoid moisture.
4. Wallpaper and Vinyl
These two materials can be directly attached to the unfinished walls of your basement. Compared to the other choices, papers or vinyl are much cheaper and easier to install. You also have the freedom to select or customize the color of your walls. The downside, however, is that it is not as durable as others, and the flaws of your cement wall may still be visible.
5. Wood Fiberboard
This one makes your wall look like real finished wood. The good thing about it is that it needs no framing and is available in many various finishes. Just like with fabrics, you may need to seal the walls first, too, so they will not be damaged by moisture.
Let Our Experts Build Your Wall Today!
Just when you are about to give up your dream of a nice-looking basement, Newton Basement Finishing experts come to your rescue! We can help you achieve the outcome you’ve wanted for the walls of your basement. Our years of experience in finishing the walls of homes within the Newton area have equipped us with the confidence and knowledge to perform this kind of task, including basement design, basement waterproofing, finishing basement walls without drywall, basement finishing, remodeling and renovation, sump, engineered wood, oriented strand board, mar, gypsum, stain, and many others. Wall stud is an essential component in our construction process.
Don’t continue to let your basement look abandoned. It is part of your investment, so maintain it! Our team of professionals specializing in basement finishing is more than willing to help you with this daunting yet satisfying task. With us, your basement will look beautiful and last a lifetime.
Newton Basement Finishing has all the tools and equipment ready to embark on any basement renovation projects you may have. Reach out to us today and call us at 617-744-4133 for a free quote.
