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If it's on slab, it's not exactly a basement. I think what you are actually asking for is 'studio space'. … As Michael Karas, the concrete contractor is correct...the more concrete you use (ie, full basement) the more the concrete will cost. …

Of course a photo would help. :) But sans photo or any further details, my guess is you are seeing efflorescence which is essentially mineral deposits left from the migration of moisture passing thro …

Where do you live? In a lot of climates, basements tend to be humid because of ground moisture entering (surface water and below-surface water) and cold walls and floors...which cause humid air to con …

Should I use spray foam to insulate Yes. Well, usually. Given the budget, it's often the best way insulate a home in terms of r-value, vapor retardation, and speed of install. If you go that …

In addition to Pam's suggestion, some more options: incinerating toilet composting toilet

Ideally, you would have used rigid insulation against the concrete. This would have worked as both your insulation and a vapor retarder (but not barrier). These days, vapor barriers are frowned upon i …

For attachment, a few options: adhesive. They make adhesive just for this. Powder Actuated Nails with washers. These are fun. You essentially are shooting nails into the concrete. Probably overkill …

You likely don't. Instead, you'd tear out your deck/patio, dig a new hole, pour a new foundation, then build a new structure on top. You can retrofit houses with basements by lifting the entire house …

If water is coming into your basement, it's likely because it's the easiest route for the water to take. …

Can downspout be the issue? For sure. You definitely don't want the downspout dumping at the foundation line. Ideally you'd have it exit several feet away from your foundation (via an elbow or a …

As DMoore points out, it appears there's some structural issues--namely the vapor barrier. I'd bring in an inspector if you can after a rain period and see if they can narrow down where the leaks ma …

You can't reliably waterproof a basement from the inside. You can't reliably waterproof a basement 'relatively cheaply'. … What you won't see in a proper basement exterior walls are: fiberglass insulation plastic (no vapor barriers!) …

As long as the concrete and some time after pouring to set up, water won't hurt anything (they make swimming pools out of concrete). Granted, you'll want it all pumped out and dried out before framing …

Where do you live? If the plan is to use the space as living space, most code will require a minimum ceiling height. That's usually 7'. So you either have to accept that you can only use a portion of …

It's a real pain to haul drywall into a basement. And then you need either a friend or a drywall lift to be able to attach it to the ceiling. …