I'm guessing "full on" looks like the Griswold's house (and electrical meter) in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation!! :p

And I don't need a heater down there! But I do go thru sunscreen...

Originally Posted by scaesare
Agreed. I have ~36 can lights in my main area, in addition to 4 sconces, 4 track lights and rope lighting. the adjacent bar area has 3 track fixtures, 2 spots, and 2 pendants.

They are rarely dimmed above 40-60% , yet the lighting is very even, especially in a darker space.

However when "full on", it's great for cleaning or work.

I'm guessing "full on" looks like the Griswold's house (and electrical meter) in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation!! :p

36 can lights seems pretty extreme! I'd have to agree w/ the Griswold comment! LOL

I'm pretty excited, I put the ceiling grid in the theater area. The only tiles left to place are the special cut ones, which I have yet to cut. Anyway, the ceiling tiles and gyp border are both Satin Pewter (Glidden) and the ceiling grid is black.

For more pics, go here:

MORE CONSTRUCTION PICTURES (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/)

ENJOY!!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6963.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6965.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6967.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6968.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6969.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6971.jpg

Here are some pictures of the bar ceiling, painted Pewter with the track lighting.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6972.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6973.jpg

Wow - I really like that look - Nice!

36 can lights seems pretty extreme! I'd have to agree w/ the Griswold comment! LOL

Yeah, well "main area" includes a game area to one side, lights by the walkout, and an entrance alcove to another room. I went with a pattern of 4" cans in the soffits that accounts for 22 of them...

Hard to make out the entire shape of the two adjacent areas where they al lare installed, but here's an example showing the small cans in the soffits and the larger ones in the ceiling:

http://caesare.homeip.net/basement/slides/IMG_1967.jpg

Josh, great job on the ceiling and bar area... really is coming along nicely!

Thanks for all the nice comments guys, it helps keep morale and motivation high. So far this morning I painted the remaining parts of the soffit with the first coat of Pewter... starting to make the room much darker!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6981.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6977.jpg

More Progress... I painted the in-wall/in-ceiling speakers black, well at least 3 of them, I ran out of paint before I could get to the 4th, grrr.

Also cut the Oak vaneer panels for the theater stage and used DAP Contact Cement to adhere them to the OSB panels that you have probably seen in my previous posts.

More to come shortly!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6985.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6983.jpg

Hey, those speakers look familiar!:

http://caesare.homeip.net/basement/slides/IMG_1420.jpg

http://caesare.homeip.net/basement/slides/IMG_1925.jpg

I notice you left the face of your speakers unpainted. Did you leave the felt on the inside of the grills when you painted them instead?

I can't tell for sure, but it appears so from the pic.

Hey, those speakers look familiar!:

http://caesare.homeip.net/basement/slides/IMG_1420.jpg

http://caesare.homeip.net/basement/slides/IMG_1925.jpg

I notice you left the face of your speakers unpainted. Did you leave the felt on the inside of the grills when you painted them instead?

I can't tell for sure, but it appears so from the pic.

Scaesare:

I left the felt on the speaker covers. I used the painting template that came with the speakers and I was a little hesitant to paint close the cones, etc. I also removed the JBL logo from the covers before I painted the covers and the put the logos back on afterwards. I think it looks pretty neat... of course thats probably due to the fact that I did it ;)

Are you concerned about the paint gummed up in the grill felt affecting sound transmission?

That's why I peeled mine out and opted to paint the speaker panel underneath instead...

The ceiling tiles I decided to go with are the Armstrong "Sahara" series ceiling tiles. I've shopped around quite a bit for them. At Lowes they are $5 a tile and I found them for an everyday price of $3.98 at Menards. I've been holding off of them for a while, and they finally went on sale at Menards for an additional 15%? off last week. I think the cost per tile ended up at $3.38. Still not the cheapest, but saving over $1.50 a tile was nice!



I took off an 8'-0" x 8'-0" area and with the cost you provided including the $5.00 tile, it came to $2.66/SF for material which is expensive! For the ease, looks & higher ceiling I would think it'd be worth the cost to go with it.

what the height of the room? to soffits and ceiling tile

Are you concerned about the paint gummed up in the grill felt affecting sound transmission?

That's why I peeled mine out and opted to paint the speaker panel underneath instead...

Scaesare:

I actually considered that and figured painting the grilles first was the most conservative way of doing it. If the felt was to get too gummed up, I could still peel it off and always paint the rest of the speakers. I found the trick to painting the grill was just to be pretty far away when sparying it - and several light coats. In my opinion, when I hold it up it to light it looks just as "see-through" as it did before I painted (wierd, I know). I guess time will tell about its acoutic transparency...

I took off an 8'-0" x 8'-0" area and with the cost you provided including the $5.00 tile, it came to $2.66/SF for material which is expensive! For the ease, looks & higher ceiling I would think it'd be worth the cost to go with it.

Yea, it wasn't cheap... but I did get the tiles for $3.40 instead of $5. I will say though, its turned out nicer than I thought it would - so I'm pretty happy with my decision. I only lost less than 1" of my ceiling height with the GridMAX. If I was doing over, I would do the same...

what the height of the room? to soffits and ceiling tile

Bottom of soffit actually suprised me when I measured it (its been a while since I've done them...). It ended up at about 6'-10" and the ceiling is at 7'-10". I'm a little over 6' tall myself, and the soffit doesn't feel too low. Again, I'm happy with the heights I chose. Anyway, hope that helps!

Continuing to work on the half-bar by getting the Oak pieces cut and glued together. Also put the second coat of paint on the soffiting. All of the Oak finish for the stage is cut and ready to be stained.

Side note: I like the look of the granite with the Oak as the border or trim that I'm considering getting 18x18 granite tile for the bar top in lieu of the 12x12. Then I would have about the same border as the half wall. Could get pricey, since I've already bought the 12x12. Thoughts?

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6993.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6991.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6988.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6990.jpg

Looking good so far. I have the same JBL center speaker.

Made some more progress this weekend (nice having the few extra days off with Thanksgiving). I was able to paint the theater / bar area walls, finish with the theater Oak paneling (still making speaker cover trim pieces), painted and finished the paneling for the recessed lighting (rope lighting area) in the bar (haven't put them up yet though). Keep in mind that the lower 3' of the theater area will be black carpet. Anyway, enjoy the pics!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6996.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7000.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7001.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7006.jpg

Here is a better picture of the true colors (picture w/o flash):

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7007.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7009.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7010.jpg

Any new updates?

Hey guys, perhaps you can give me your input about this. I am building a bar wall to which some floor cabinets are going to be attached, similar to hawkeye josh. However, my bar wall will come out 89 inches from the wall and will not have a 90 degree supporting wall, basically it will be attached to the main basement wall and that's it.

The floor 2X4 will be nailed into the concrete like a frame would be. There will be a piece of granite that will sit on this half wall (about 44 inches high) that will come out 12 inches on one side and 3-4 inches on the other (toward the cabinets). I am using metal "L" brackets to secure the granite. So my question is, will this be enough support for the granite?

Maybe Chinadog will chime in here. Look at Blazing Ridge Cinema build and check out what he did with Granite in his bar.

The floor 2X4 will be nailed into the concrete like a frame would be. There will be a piece of granite that will sit on this half wall (about 44 inches high) that will come out 12 inches on one side and 3-4 inches on the other (toward the cabinets). I am using metal "L" brackets to secure the granite. So my question is, will this be enough support for the granite?

I'd use a 2x6 versus a 2x4, a little more surface area to support the granite. Don't go out more than 12 inches either (my opinion, but better safe than sorry). The granite is support on the surface by silicon typically and you'd want a few supports. You can use the L brackets you mentioned, assuming they;re big enough or go with corbels. The guy that measures the templates for the granite for you should be able to make specific suggestions for you when he comes out.

Here is my bar album:
http://public.fotki.com/bketterl/early_construction/blazing_ridge_cinema-1/bar/

My thread is in my signature below, you can post any questions there.

Bud

Any new updates?

No new updates to speak of. I've been doing smaller things here and there, but not enough to notice anything in a picture. My next step will be to lay the tile in the bar area. I hope to get that done pretty soon. I'm having reconstructive knee surgery on the 19th of this month, so work will come to a hault for a while - unfortunately. I really wanted to be done by then, but I'd rather stay out of big financial debt... so slow and easy will have to win the race! :)

More progress on the bar area:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7013.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7016.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7014.jpg

Hawkeye Josh,

Your Bar is going to be terrific - very nice!

I spent the weekend bending conduit & pulling wire; including two dedicated-ground 20amp circuits into my equipment closet. Having to use conduit certaily slows down this phase of my project.

Good Luck with your upcoming surgery - will we see any more photos...?

Craig

Hawkeye Josh,

Your Bar is going to be terrific - very nice!

I spent the weekend bending conduit & pulling wire; including two dedicated-ground 20amp circuits into my equipment closet. Having to use conduit certaily slows down this phase of my project.

Good Luck with your upcoming surgery - will we see any more photos...?

Craig

Of course there will be more pictures to come! I'm a picture reader... I get bored if I see a thread that is all text!

Does anyone have any good ideas of what type of lighting to use to illuminate the mirror in the center of the back bar? I want something that is dimmable, but doesn't run hot. I was thinking along the lines of LED strips. Has anyone used these? Have a specific model? Do they put out enough light? Other ideas?

Thanks in advance.

Does anyone have any good ideas of what type of lighting to use to illuminate the mirror in the center of the back bar? I want something that is dimmable, but doesn't run hot. I was thinking along the lines of LED strips. Has anyone used these? Have a specific model? Do they put out enough light? Other ideas?

Thanks in advance.

On commercial projects, when they want to have the backs of mirrors lit up so that it glows around the edges, they use two or three fluorescent hoop lights, but these I don't believe are dimmable. I used an LED strip to light up my recessed plant shelf/light cove and even in a dark setting it's not very bright.

Started to lay the tile behind the bar... Just have to add the special cut pieces. The camera doesnt show the true color of the tile very well - remember that its a dark gray. I took the picture AFTER I swept, so there was a ton of dust in the air. Oops

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7021.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7020.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7019.jpg

The staining stage has begun. I started with the cabinets for the bar area as well as the trim for the half-wall. The stain is Minwax "Golden Oak".

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7022.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7023.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7024.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7025.jpg

Made some more progress over the weekend:

Finished staining and applied the Minwax Polycrylic protective finish to the cabinets and other Oak parts:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7036.jpg

Finished laying tile, then grouted. The aluminum around the edges of the tile is called "schluter" and it gives a nice even surface to roll the carpet up to when installed.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7041.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7044.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7046.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7048.jpg

Enjoy!

good planning on the tile! Looks nice where you lined up the partial tile on the outside of the bar with the full tiles on the inside. I might not have thought of that.

Oh, don't give him that much credit. Dare I say...he got lucky! ;)

Looking good. I am curious to see how this all ties together later with the carpet regarding the color scheme.

Not nearly yet complete, but dare I say starting to take shape?

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7051.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7053.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7054.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7057.jpg

I've been watching your thread since the beginning - very nice work! I think you have done a great job putting together your space.

One minor correction though..."Schluter" is a manufacturer of many things tile. I only know this because when we had over 1500 sq.ft. of tile installed in our home, they used Schluter brand underlayment. We were told Schluter is one of the best brands for tile work, and thus the upcharge. Since I am a computer geek I had to take their word for it :o.

Keep feeding us the pics - I get excited when I see your thread has been updated.

I've been watching your thread since the beginning - very nice work! I think you have done a great job putting together your space.

One minor correction though..."Schluter" is a manufacturer of many things tile. I only know this because when we had over 1500 sq.ft. of tile installed in our home, they used Schluter brand underlayment. We were told Schluter is one of the best brands for tile work, and thus the upcharge. Since I am a computer geek I had to take their word for it :o.

Keep feeding us the pics - I get excited when I see your thread has been updated.

Audixium:

You've exposed my tiling ignorance! LOL. The drywalling I had done a LITTLE bit of during high school, everything else I have had experience with, but the flooring I had never done. It was... and continues to be... a learning experience for me. I know that the "Schluter" edging wasn't cheap... about $10 for the 8' section. Thanks for pointing it out and hopefully I didn't mislead anyone reading my thread.

Thanks for the positive comments... they definately keep a person excited to keep working - even during the frustrating times!

Josh,

Things look great and it's really starting to shape up!! The Schluter bar is nice stuff, and depending on what carpet you put down, you may not even see it..... I know I can't see mine unless I pull the carpet away! How did you like grouting by it???....bet of a pain, but it's worth it!

Anyway, keep up the good work! I like seeing the updates!

Looking good man.

Bud

how much space is there between the bar, and the mini bar top facing the theater. You show a table in the middle, I was wondering what would be considered ample spacing

how much space is there between the bar, and the mini bar top facing the theater. You show a table in the middle, I was wondering what would be considered ample spacing

lynchmob273:

After I started the construction (and it was too late) I started to wonder the same thing as you... especially once the tile was down. Between the tile and the half-wall bar I have a little over 9' clear. If you go from the edge of the bar to the half-wall bar, I have a little over 11' clear. It looks like in order to use the table in the middle - if I end up putting one there - you will have to have the bar stools and half-wall stools pushed in. Grrr.

Here are some more pictures to keep everyone interested. The knee has kept me from being productive, but hopefully it'll start picking up soon here..

The half-wall area is almost complete. The Oak trim on the front and back have been installed, as well as the granite tiles. The half-wall is only missing the top Oak piece that will be on top of the 2x4 stud wall. Then on the sides of the bar area a few pieces have to be fastened.

Other odds-n-ends:

Put in the can lights over the half-wall (no bulbs yet) and connected the rear speakers.

Enjoy the pics:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7062.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7063.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7064.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7065.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7066.jpg

More updates on the back bar, half-wall and the theater stage. Check out the pics...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7067.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7069.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7071.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7072.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7074.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7075.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7077.jpg




For more pictures CLICK HERE (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/)

Gonna be a great space!

Gonna be a great space!

Thanks Randy. I'm getting excited for it to be done. What a long process!

Very cool! Keep it up...

Very cool! Keep it up...

Thanks... really only the bar tops left... Start the countdown!

Keep up the good work.

really great work, man.

i wish i had the finances available to complete a project like this. speaking of which, what is/was your budget for the project? (is that OK to ask? i apologize in advance if not, i'm very much a n00b here)

really great work, man.

i wish i had the finances available to complete a project like this. speaking of which, what is/was your budget for the project? (is that OK to ask? i apologize in advance if not, i'm very much a n00b here)

LOL, its OK to ask. I started out with no budget... meaning that I would buy things and do them as long as money allowed (thus such a long construction period). I've kept all the receipts to-date and when completed I will add up all of the costs. Frankly... I'm kind of scared to know - I fear is going to be a large number! ;)

Hawkeye Josh,

Happy Belated New Years!

Been awhile since I checked in.

Wow - you are almost to the finish line and it's looking excellent - this has to be one of the most professional jobs I have seen. The bar details are really coming togehter nicely.

A few quick questions:

Your theater area is smiliar to mine in size - Are you happy with the number of can lights and spacing? Do you feel you are getting enought light out of this arrangement?

The second question >> I really like the looks of your 2 part ceiling. Looks like the tiles are perhaps an inch higher than the drywall portion of the celing. How will you be finishing the reveal between the drywall and the edge of the tiles..?

Keep up the good Work!

Hawkeye Josh,

Happy Belated New Years!

Been awhile since I checked in.

Wow - you are almost to the finish line and it's looking excellent - this has to be one of the most professional jobs I have seen. The bar details are really coming togehter nicely.

A few quick questions:

Your theater area is smiliar to mine in size - Are you happy with the number of can lights and spacing? Do you feel you are getting enought light out of this arrangement?

The second question >> I really like the looks of your 2 part ceiling. Looks like the tiles are perhaps an inch higher than the drywall portion of the celing. How will you be finishing the reveal between the drywall and the edge of the tiles..?

Keep up the good Work!

Hey CuzEd:

Answer #1:
The theater area has 6, 6" can lights evenly spaced. I light alot of light in a room - and I'm pleased with their performance.

Answer #2:
The drop ceiling above the bar will be construction exactly the same as the theater area. I'll be using the GridMax T-bars.

First the 1/2" OSB is screwed to the floor joists above. Next is 3/8" sheet rock. This give a 7/8" gap between the bottom of the floor joist and the bottom of the ceiling. GridMax requires about a 7/8" height, the the T-bars sit flush with the drywall - and cover the edge of the drywall.

More progress this weekend.

Put the top on the half-wall:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7082.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7085.jpg

Constructed speaker covers and put black cloth on the top of the stage:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7081.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7080.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7079.jpg

Cut and stained all the trim pieces to finish the bar tops (not all shown in pic):
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7078.jpg

Installed the back bar display lights:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7092.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7088.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7089.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7090.jpg

Enjoy!

Love the mirror! What a great idea. I was just thinking the other day that my plan will have too many uppers. This would work great. Basement is really nice, going to be awesome when you are done!

Yaj123:

I'm glad you like the mirror look. Obviously not my original idea... so feel free to steal it if you like!

Thanks for the positive comments!

I added some of the carpet on the walls in the theater room. Eventually Oak trim will go along the top edge of the carpet to separate it from the painted wall. Getting closer...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7098.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7100.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7101.jpg

Looking good. I have been meaning to ask whether you have any issues with people in front of the projector causing temporary blockage of the image when they get up? I only ask since your screen is so close to the ground. It is a primary reason I am considering going 2.35 vs 1.78.

Looking good. I have been meaning to ask whether you have any issues with people in front of the projector causing temporary blockage of the image when they get up? I only ask since your screen is so close to the ground. It is a primary reason I am considering going 2.35 vs 1.78.

John,

While the projector isn't premantly up yet, I have had it up to see what it would be like. People walking to the side of the stage isn't a concern and people walking in front of it... for the most part, isn't a concern. You can get about half-way between the half-wall and the stage before you start to interfere with the image - which is actually closer to the stage than I had imagined it would be. The projector image angle is weird... but it works out in a good way.

The way I look at it is that if someone is walking in front of a TV screen, you can't see it. So walking in front of the projected image will have the same affect. The theater room isn't really set-up that people will be sitting next to the stage, so hopefully the room layout will dictate where people will position themselves... we'll only hope! ;)

John,

While the projector isn't premantly up yet, I have had it up to see what it would be like. People walking to the side of the stage isn't a concern and people walking in front of it... for the most part, isn't a concern. You can get about half-way between the half-wall and the stage before you start to interfere with the image - which is actually closer to the stage than I had imagined it would be. The projector image angle is weird... but it works out in a good way.

The way I look at it is that if someone is walking in front of a TV screen, you can't see it. So walking in front of the projected image will have the same affect. The theater room isn't really set-up that people will be sitting next to the stage, so hopefully the room layout will dictate where people will position themselves... we'll only hope! ;)

It's clearly easier to choose smarter friends who don't get in the way during movies :)

Your room and bar look great! I was wondering if I might ask you a couple questions about you back bar piece with the mirror. Firstly, I was wondering what the dimensions are of it, particulaly how deep it is. Also wondering how you attached the mirror and also how you attached the entire unit to the wall.

It's clearly easier to choose smarter friends who don't get in the way during movies :)

Sometimes my filter doesn't catch them and allows "un-smarter" friends in... LOL.

Your room and bar look great! I was wondering if I might ask you a couple questions about you back bar piece with the mirror. Firstly, I was wondering what the dimensions are of it, particulaly how deep it is. Also wondering how you attached the mirror and also how you attached the entire unit to the wall.

The mirror size is a standard 48"x36" (I planned that so I wouldn't have to get a custom sized mirror). The cabinets are 12" deep, so the mirror sits back 12" from the front of the cabinets. The bottle holder shelf that I made is 10" total depth - so 2" difference between the depth of the shelf and the front of the cabinets. The bottle shelf has to tiers, each tier is 2.5" in height and 5" in depth.

I secured the mirror to the wall by using a standard "J" channel piece at the bottom (which can be found in the mirror aisle at Lowes, Menards, etc.) and the top is secured using the mounting hardware that came w/ it - two tabs. I chose to buy the "J" channel at the bottom for looks, but it certainly wasn't required. The "J" channel is aluminum and was about $8 for a 4 foot section, if I remember correctly. (Not cheap!)

Hope this helps! If not, let me know...

If it's not too late, you should have that mirror silk screened with a logo for your basement.

If it's not too late, you should have that mirror silk screened with a logo for your basement.

Its not too late... I can take the mirror down in about 2 minutes. And as a matter of fact... I wanted to do just that, but wasn't sure what logo to use. Maybe too much of a different time period for some people on the forum, but I wanted to make a logo that looks similar to the "311" band logo (shown below).. except it would be "5815"... which is the address of my house. Haven't figured out how to photoshop that yet, nor have had the time to do it.


http://www.voxonline.com/alternative/311/images/311logo.gif

Maybe that's not a good idea, I dont know. I'm certainly open to suggestions...

Maybe that's not a good idea, I dont know. I'm certainly open to suggestions...

Certainly not a bad idea. If/when you sell the house, this will be something that will obviously be able to carry over to the new owner.

Very nice work. I am toying with moving my center to the top. My screen is low to the floor also and we really like it. Enjoying your thread.

I didn't have much time after work tonight, but I was able to apply the polycrylic to all of the bar trim, etc, so that will be ready to install anytime after tomorrow. I also installed the trim around my audio rack - obviously still the ole garage receiver and OSB shelves sitting there... eventually there will be a back to it also.

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7102.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7104.jpg

Very nice work. I am toying with moving my center to the top. My screen is low to the floor also and we really like it. Enjoying your thread.

Randy,

Thanks for the compliment. Truth be told, your bar was the inspiration for me to build a nice one. I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted or where to start, but seeing what you had done and how nicely it turned out gave me a jump start to what I wanted to accomplish.

Thanks!

Dude, great work, I have enjoyed reading through this thread, and my layout is very similar and you've been a great inspiration.

One question I do have, as I have something similar, is what do plan on doing for drainage for the sink?

Thanks again,

Dude, great work, I have enjoyed reading through this thread, and my layout is very similar and you've been a great inspiration.

One question I do have, as I have something similar, is what do plan on doing for drainage for the sink?

Thanks again,

I had a few options for the sink sanitary line... first I could have cut open the floor and routed under the foundation to an existing sanitary line or (this is what I did):

Route the sanitary and vent in the wall to the room behind the bar. I was lucky enough that my kitchen sink is just above that room so I was able to tie into the existing sanitary and vent connections.

Hope this helps!

I think that logo would be cool, but you have to consider how much a custom screen in that size would cost. Whereas if you just went with some letters saying something like "Hawkeye Hangout" or "Josh's Lair" or whatever, they wouldn't have to make anything custom.

Either way, get something printed on it, it will add a lot to the look of the place.

I think that logo would be cool, but you have to consider how much a custom screen in that size would cost. Whereas if you just went with some letters saying something like "Hawkeye Hangout" or "Josh's Lair" or whatever, they wouldn't have to make anything custom.

Either way, get something printed on it, it will add a lot to the look of the place.

Actually, I was thinking of doing the "screen print" myself. I figure that if the design is in CAD and print it out full scale, I should be able to cut out the design with a razor blade and have nice crisp edges. Then adhere the stencil to the mirror and use a Krylon Frost color... or a cloudy clear colored spray. I would have to be pretty meticulous, but I think it could be done.

Plus I'm all about the DIY... much cheaper and a greater sense of accomplishment.

Thoughts?

If you have a method to print it out big enough to look right, then go for it! And you will get the added satisfaction of doing it yourself.

I agree with doing it yourself. But you could use a glass etch product instead of the Krylon. The Krylon would scratch much easier that and actual etching product.

John

I agree with doing it yourself. But you could use a glass etch product instead of the Krylon. The Krylon would scratch much easier that and actual etching product.

John

Valid point, do you have any experience or knowledge of something you would suggest? A specific product?

Thanks for the info!

I have never done it but I have seen a mirror done by someone else. Pretty simple from what it looks like.

You could use this (http://www.delphiglass.com/othercrafts/etching-engraving/armour-etch-cream-10-oz.html)product easily

A few trim pieces left to go, but you get the "picture"...

(I would have taken the pictures AFTER I cleaned the floor, but the dust would have been so bad I would have had to wait until tomorrow to take the pics - and of course that's not an option!)

ENJOY!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7106.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7108.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7109.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7114.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7116.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7112.jpg

More pictures can be found here:

HawkeyeJosh's Additional Construction Photos (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/)

Crap! That looks awesome!

Your bar puts my bar to shame that is for sure.

I might stop by tomorrow to look at it.

I've added a recent correspondence between gpeagle and myself through PM. But if anyone else has the same questions, I thought I'd share...

I didn't want to take up space in your thread but I have enjoyed watching the progress. I am in the process of a very similar layout and have been struggling with a rack. I just can't justify the cost of a pro rack when so many of the DIY racks look so good. Would you mind sharing the dimensions of the rack you built. I would like to use at as model for my rack.

Thanks

My rack HxWxD dimensions are 55x19.25x19.25. Hope this helps

Is the h of 55 from the floor to the top or is that just the opening in the wall.


The height of the opening is 55" and the opening is 8.5" above the floor. Keep in mind that a 55" tall rack is pretty big - you're going to be able to fit alot of components in there. I'll probably only fill the top half (receiver, HD-DVD, Blu-Ray, DirecTV, Butt-Kicker, HD Antenna Tuner, Power Center and HTPC, and maybe something else along the way). The bottom half of the rack I"ll probably just add shelves and put my movies there.

I agree that its better to build than buy... both cost-wise and you get a little sense of accomplishment and satisfaction if you do it yourself.

Let me know if you have other questions.

With the scrap granite that I had from the bar, I decided to make coasters... creative, I know. LOL. I figure if I put the cork-board on the back like regular coasters, I should be good to go...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7119.jpg

Were we a little bored today?!

One thing that I noticed in another thread and never even thought of for your basement is a drink ledge.

Have you considered this before?

I realize you have the marvelous half height wall and the bar not to far from it, but I think it would make great sense in the billiards room.

Were we a little bored today?!

One thing that I noticed in another thread and never even thought of for your basement is a drink ledge.

Have you considered this before?

I realize you have the marvelous half height wall and the bar not to far from it, but I think it would make great sense in the billiards room.

Actually I had considered it in the Rec room... but no plans for it now. It's an easy after-though add...

Great post, just had a quick question did you miter where the 1x6 and the 1x4 of the top tier of your bar meet or just butt the 1x6 up against the bottum of the 1x4..
Thanks keep up the great work.

Josh, the quality of your work is top-notch. I am thoroughly impressed. The counter and bar are beautiful. The granite and wood really compliment each other nicely. Looks like you are coming down the home stretch, huh? You must be getting excited.

Great post, just had a quick question did you miter where the 1x6 and the 1x4 of the top tier of your bar meet or just butt the 1x6 up against the bottum of the 1x4..
Thanks keep up the great work.

jravenger, sorry for the delayed response. I believe what you are asking about is the 2-tier shelf that I made that is below the mirror. For those I did not miter the interface of the 1x6 and 1x4. I butted them together, then glued (Elmer's Wood Glue) and secured them w/ 3 nails from a brad nailer. The edge of the front board can be seen when looking at the shelf from the top. If that doesn't make sense, let me know and I"ll try to get a better picture of it. These pictures are difficult to see, but may help... you can see the change in grain patter where they connect.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7023.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7024.jpg

Josh, the quality of your work is top-notch. I am thoroughly impressed. The counter and bar are beautiful. The granite and wood really compliment each other nicely. Looks like you are coming down the home stretch, huh? You must be getting excited.

frorule,

Thanks for the compliments, it's a good feeling when people aknowledge the amout of time, thought and labor that has gone into this project!

I am coming down to the home stretch... in the theater / bar room I've got to install the carpet on the half-wall and next to my component rack (similar to what is on the walls now) and then a few more trim pieces on the bar. Then I'll be ready for the carpet to be installed. I think after that I'll consider it done enough for quite some time - as the baseboard trim, etc, will still need to be done at some point.

Right now I am in the process of finishing mudding the Rec room... which is about done and then soon I will be painting that. It should go fairly quickly in there since there aren't as many soffits and special features - its just a plain box-like room.

I ordered my last AV component, the Onkyo TX-SR605 reciever, which according to DHL shipment tracking, should arrive today...

jravenger, sorry for the delayed response. I believe what you are asking about is the 2-tier shelf that I made that is below the mirror. For those I did not miter the interface of the 1x6 and 1x4. I butted them together, then glued (Elmer's Wood Glue) and secured them w/ 3 nails from a brad nailer. The edge of the front board can be seen when looking at the shelf from the top. If that doesn't make sense, let me know and I"ll try to get a better picture of it. These pictures are difficult to see, but may help... you can see the change in grain patter where they connect.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7023.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7024.jpg

I was referring to the actual bar top, where the side front wood "skirt" 1x6and the top of the wood edge meet. It might be a 1x2 edge not a 1x4 sorry.
Thanks.

A few trim pieces left to go, but you get the "picture"...

(I would have taken the pictures AFTER I cleaned the floor, but the dust would have been so bad I would have had to wait until tomorrow to take the pics - and of course that's not an option!)

ENJOY!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7106.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7108.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7109.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7114.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7116.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7112.jpg

More pictures can be found here:

HawkeyeJosh's Additional Construction Photos (http://s128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/)

Sorry if this confusing but the edge in the first two pics.

Looks awesome, but I have one word..KEGERATOR!

frorule,

Right now I am in the process of finishing mudding the Rec room... which is about done and then soon I will be painting that. It should go fairly quickly in there since there aren't as many soffits and special features - its just a plain box-like room.

I am surprised that you installed as much as you have without first finishing the mudding:eek:. I can't imagine having to clean up all the nook and crannies after final sanding and such. That stuff makes such as mess and I am constantly cleaning up. It seems to always find a way to get where I don't want it.

Sorry if this confusing but the edge in the first two pics.

Nope, not confusing at all. The corners are not mitered. The front piece (1x6) was installed so that when you are looking at the top of the bar, you can see the 3/4" thickness of the 1x6. The piece that is laying horizontal and flush with the granite is actually a 1/2x4. The 1/2x4 buts up against the 1x6. I'm at work right now, so I can't add a picture. If you look at the outside 45 degree angled portion, you can see the slight color difference / grain pattern change between the pieces.

Please let me know if this makes sense... if not, I'll take a close-up picture tonite and post it.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7108.jpg

I am surprised that you installed as much as you have without first finishing the mudding:eek:. I can't imagine having to clean up all the nook and crannies after final sanding and such. That stuff makes such as mess and I am constantly cleaning up. It seems to always find a way to get where I don't want it.

This would be my ADD kicking in - my inability to do one stage until its done instead of getting excited about finishing one portion... The rec room is completely sealed off from the rest of the basement (door covered with plastic) so the mudding in there shouldn't be a big issue - plus it has the egress window for ventilation. I understand that dust can move in mysterious ways, however.

Great point!

Thanks I think I understand but a close up pic would be great.:)

Looking good man. Is that a primer coat on the wall? I painted before the cabinets were hung. Heck of a lot easier...

Coasters, huh? :)

Bud

Thanks I think I understand but a close up pic would be great.:)

jravenger,

I have added some photos below to better show the bar top finish. The bar top is a little dusty... but I figured that didn't matter much for the pics ;)

The first pic is the best... its the one corner of the bar that I haven't attached the trim to yet (just been lazy).

After I glued the two pieces together I used a palm sander to smooth the joint. When you run your hands over it you would never know they are 2 boards glued together.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7123.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7122.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7124.jpg

Looking good man. Is that a primer coat on the wall? I painted before the cabinets were hung. Heck of a lot easier...

Coasters, huh? :)

Bud

Bud! No! That's the finished paint color! LOL. Don't worry, I've gotten that comment alot. Its hard to show the real color of the walls because of the camera flash. The color of the walls is "Morning Gray" part of Lowes Signature Series (if I remember correctly). I've added the picture below where you can see the white primer near the floor and how it contrasts with the paint.

Oh yea... the coasters turned out pretty neat. Creative huh? LOL.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7125.jpg

This would be my ADD kicking in - my inability to do one stage until its done instead of getting excited about finishing one portion... The rec room is completely sealed off from the rest of the basement (door covered with plastic) so the mudding in there shouldn't be a big issue - plus it has the egress window for ventilation. I understand that dust can move in mysterious ways, however.

Great point!

LOL, a man after my own...; speaking of man, did you know...

The newest member of the family and the last AV component required for me to begin my theater experience! I'm debating hooking it up - then nothing will get for sure!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7127Large.jpg

Were we a little bored today?!

One thing that I noticed in another thread and never even thought of for your basement is a drink ledge.

Have you considered this before?

I realize you have the marvelous half height wall and the bar not to far from it, but I think it would make great sense in the billiards room.



Yes drink ledge....my thread build...

Here is a pic...
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7362/img1876zs1.jpg

Better pic here...This is what you first see when you walk into the basement.:cool:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/9797/img2014mh4.jpg


Ok my thread "Hi-jack" is over.:D

Ha! It's tough to tell from the pictures. I probably should have went back and looked in the thread. It looked fine, it was just the color seemed light, hence the primer thought. My bad!

Bud

Yes drink ledge....my thread build...

Here is a pic...
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7362/img1876zs1.jpg

Better pic here...This is what you first see when you walk into the basement.:cool:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/9797/img2014mh4.jpg


Ok my thread "Hi-jack" is over.:D

Nah, you're not "Hi-jacking" my thread... you're sharing - and isn't that the point of the threads?

Very nice topic and pics!

Yes drink ledge....my thread build...

Here is a pic...
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7362/img1876zs1.jpg



Nice!! I wish I would've seen that idea earlier for my game room. I suppose it would be relatively easy to retrofit, minus the wainscoting anyway, but after spending virtually all of 2007 working down there, I'm done. Hopefully others here will see it and take advantage of it as it really is a cool thing to have.

Are there more detailed pictures of the drink ledge somewhere?

I'll snap a few betters ones later...

A general update on my progress. I dedicated the weekend to finishing the drywall and mudding in the Rec Room... I'm just about done and Saturday night I was so physically exhausted that I couldn't do anymore. I sanded and put on the second coat on Sunday... so it's ready for the final, light coat to cover the last imperfections. I figure that I can wrap that up easily enough one night this week after work. Then I'll be ready to prime the walls and ceiling and then spary the ceiling. I've been able to control the sanding dust very well for two reasons 1. I'm getting better at mudding (finally) so the sanding required is minimal 2. I made a 2-layer plastic door in the doorway to keep the dust in the Rec Room.

In other news...

I put up the projector and the reciever. I watched both of the Championship games this weekend downstairs... sitting on a folding chair ;) I'm thrilled the way the picture and the whole set-up has turned out. Just need to finish the carpet in the theater/bar room and it'll be done! I'm going to wait for the carpet until the Rec room is done so that I can have it all installed at once... thus the big push to finish the mudding!

Even though I'm a Bears fan... GO GIANTS!

My oh my... don't update the thread for a few days and suddenly you're down a few pages! At any rate, this weekend I got the Rec Room completely mudded and ready to be painted. A buddy from work is going to let me use his hopper gun again to spray the ceiling, then it'll be done.

I've got the theater area fully functional with most audio components hooked up and working. I'm very pleased with the way it turned out... carpet will only make it better.

In other news... Menards had 25% of all carpet plus free pad so I ended up buying all the carpet for the basement. Cost me $1400 after tax, which ended up saving me about $700 between the normal price of the carpet plus the pad. It's also a far cry of the first estimate I got of about $3000. I did end up going with a different carpet, but the price difference just couldn't justify the other stuff.

Yes drink ledge....my thread build...

Here is a pic...
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/7362/img1876zs1.jpg

Better pic here...This is what you first see when you walk into the basement.:cool:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/9797/img2014mh4.jpg


Ok my thread "Hi-jack" is over.:D

NETKO,
Where did you get you pole cover from? Hand made or store bought? I like the recessed look.

Any new updates?

just read through this thread. i love what you are doing. great job on documenting it all too. keep it coming! later.

Any new updates?

It's nice to see that people are still interested in the thread! Process has been slow lately... and in the pictures you'll see why!

I've finished putting the black carpet on the walls in the Theater area - still need to change out the white outlets for black ones. I've also finished drywalling, taping and priming the Rec Room. This weekend I plan to spray the ceiling early Saturday morning and hopefully I"ll be able to paint it late Saturday night if I get enough fans and air movement going. Then on Sunday I'd like to paint the Rec Room (one coat early morning, another later at night). Menards called and said the carpet was in... so I need to find and installer. Once the painting is done, the carpet will be a go... then it's more odds-n-ends stuff from here on out!

Check out the pics below!

The Rec Room "Rendering" during the conceptual stage:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/RecRoom1.jpg

The Rec Room as it stands right now:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7137.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7139.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7138.jpg

I've fallen into the trap of putting the ol' college couch downstairs on a leftover piece of carpet from upstairs. I"m guilty of watching a few movies and TV now. You'll also notice that my component shelves aren't complete yet (still need to paint)... but that's all stuff that can be done later ;) ...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7141.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7133.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7135.jpg

just read through this thread. i love what you are doing. great job on documenting it all too. keep it coming! later.

aham23:

Thanks for the encouragement!

Nice Bears throw... got one of them myself in the theater room! Great work! Looking forward to the finished pics.

Bud

Wow, I gotta say. That theater room looks amazing, even without the floor! You did a great job with the screen,ceiling, panels, walls... the finished product is going to look fantastic.

Are you still going to put a poker table between the bar and the half-wall?

Nice Bears throw... got one of them myself in the theater room! Great work! Looking forward to the finished pics.

Bud

Bud,

Thanks for the encouragement. Hopefully it will be "done" pretty soon. There are things like the trim, etc, that I'll be in no hurry to get done. I'll wait for the big sales on that stuff at Menards, etc before I buy. I've got a few other projects lined up after the basement. Going to insulate and finish the rest of the garage and then landscape the front lawn. It's never-ending...

GO BEARS!

Wow, I gotta say. That theater room looks amazing, even without the floor! You did a great job with the screen,ceiling, panels, walls... the finished product is going to look fantastic.

Are you still going to put a poker table between the bar and the half-wall?

tighr:

Thanks for the nice comments about the Theater area. I'm excited for the carpet to be installed. Its a dark gray, charcoal-ish color, so it should go well with the black and gray theme.

At this time the plan is to put some type of table between the bar and half-wall... budget right now will probably allow for my already-owned card table! LOL.

I'm excited to get the furnishings done though!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/View03.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7133.jpg

Wow, look how closely the concept matched the final design of the projector screen!

Sprayed the ceiling today, tomorrow will be painting...

Foyer ceiling:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7142.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7143.jpg

Rec Room Ceiling:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7144.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7146.jpg

I'll try to add painted pics tomorrow...

Looking great! You're so close...

How did you enjoy texturing the ceiling? ;)

But dude, your components look REALLY dirty. I would be a little concerned at this point. Wouldn't want to have to replace something this late in the game.

Looking great! You're so close...

How did you enjoy texturing the ceiling? ;)

But dude, your components look REALLY dirty. I would be a little concerned at this point. Wouldn't want to have to replace something this late in the game.

Texturing the ceiling wasn't actually that bad - its actually pretty easy after you've done it once. It was much worse when I did the bar area because I had never mixed the stuff before. You're supposed to mix it and let it set for about 15 mins, then check the consistency and add water or mix accordingly to get the right consistency... well I didnt' know what the right consistency was! I played around for about an hour the first time. The second time around (Rec Room) was much easier. I knew what consistency to look for, had it mixed up in about 20 minutes and away I went. It's actually kind of fun to do with the only boring part being the clean-up (equipment and walls that got sprayed!).

As far as componenets... you're not the first one to comment on that. Actually, alot of the components that are the dusty ones are the ones that were either being used or sitting out of the box upstairs waiting to be brought downstairs - still not good, but at least isn't not drywall dust. The only exception to that would be the receiver, which appears very dirty on the front - which is a result of me turning it on, adjusting volume, etc with dirty hands, so it wipes off easily. I have a weird view when it comes to things like that... I have a great appreciation for the equipment and the cost, but on the other hand I bought it to use, so that's what I'm going to do. Similar will be with the new carpet - alot of people want you to take your shoes off when they've installed new carpet. To me, my house is not a museum, its a house, and carpet gets walked one (with and without shoes) so short of having tromped through a mud puddle, I think its silly to be so protective. I know alot of people dont agree with me on that one...

I'm done with anything that will create dust and the carpet will either be installed this week or early next week, which should help tremendously with dust control.

Maybe I'm wrong???

I have a weird view when it comes to things like that... I have a great appreciation for the equipment and the cost, but on the other hand I bought it to use, so that's what I'm going to do. Similar will be with the new carpet - alot of people want you to take your shoes off when they've installed new carpet. To me, my house is not a museum, its a house, and carpet gets walked one (with and without shoes) so short of having tromped through a mud puddle, I think its silly to be so protective. I know alot of people dont agree with me on that one...

I'm with you on the carpet. When we built our house the carpet budget was crazy overboard - top of the line pad and carpet. I couldn't even look at the line item after the decision was made. BUT, I do not agree with my wife regarding the whole shoes off thing. I'm wearing shoes if I want. Sometimes when it snows the mag chloride and sand that gets dumped can make me take 'em off (or mud). But otherwise, I'm not going to observe an imaginary boundary between the tile and carpet...:cool:

Perhaps instead of a basement theater build I'll end up building a Dog House theater! :D

OK... got the Rec Room painted, well, almost...

The ceiling and walls are done. I decided in the middle of painting that I"m going to paint the soffit and window enclosure area in a lighter gray (the gray I used in the theater room) so its going to add a little bit more time to the process, but it should turn out pretty neat.

Probably going to schedule the carpet to be installed later this week.

I've added some pictures with and without the camera flash. Its darker than the pictures show, however.

The paint is Valspar Signature Series "Sterling."

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7149.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7155.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7150.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7154.jpg

OK... got the Rec Room painted, well, almost...

The ceiling and walls are done. I decided in the middle of painting that I"m going to paint the soffit and window enclosure area in a lighter gray (the gray I used in the theater room) so its going to add a little bit more time to the process, but it should turn out pretty neat.

Probably going to schedule the carpet to be installed later this week.



Man, what are you going to do with your life once this basement is all done?? Have crazy parties?!

You can come over and help me re-do my kitchen or master bath!

I like the color. It is turning out very nice. I suppose you still have your bath down there to do.

I can't believe you can get carpet installed on such short notice. My guys were at least 1 month out.

Man, what are you going to do with your life once this basement is all done?? Have crazy parties?!

You can come over and help me re-do my kitchen or master bath!

I like the color. It is turning out very nice. I suppose you still have your bath down there to do.

I can't believe you can get carpet installed on such short notice. My guys were at least 1 month out.

Well, I've got a few projects lined up:
- Insulate and finish the garage
- Landscape the front yard
- Perhaps tile the kitchen and hardwood floor the dining room
- Finish the bathroom downstairs

Even though a 6 year old house, still tons of things that can be done. In 30 years its considered maintenance, now its just an upgrade...

I'm not sure how crazy the parties will be, but we can sure try...

Yea, I was suprised with the carpet installers being available. Then again, there is alot of snow on the ground and it's -10 outside - I can't imagine too many people putting in new carpet right now...

Still more finishing things to do on the basement to keep me busy for a while though...

Very nice.

I know this is somewhere on this thread but I just cant find it.

How big is your screen?
What are you using for your screen?

Very nice.

I know this is somewhere on this thread but I just cant find it.

How big is your screen?
What are you using for your screen?

kezug,

The screen is about 116" diagonal. The screen is, well, the wall. Nothing to spectacular here... I didn't even paint the wall. I used a few heavy coats of the USG First Coat Primer and called it good. Probably not the most brag-able "screen" but I'm more than happy with the results!

The paint is Valspar Signature Series "Sterling."




How did you like the Valspar paint? I painted a white door with Valspar paint and it didn't cover very well. After about 5 coats I decided that I couldn't use that brand for any other projects.

I echo everyone else that says your basement is looking great. Just a little touch here and there and you'll be "finished."

kezug,

The screen is about 116" diagonal. The screen is, well, the wall. Nothing to spectacular here... I didn't even paint the wall. I used a few heavy coats of the USG First Coat Primer and called it good. Probably not the most brag-able "screen" but I'm more than happy with the results!

Josh,

I started with Kilz primer for my screen and liked it a lot but because of my LCD projector (and LCD inherent lack of deep black levels) I opted for the Behr Silverscreen paint from HD. Like you said, it's not the most brag-able screen, but the only thing that matters is that you're happy with the results......heck, you gotta live there!! ;)

How did you like the Valspar paint? I painted a white door with Valspar paint and it didn't cover very well. After about 5 coats I decided that I couldn't use that brand for any other projects.

I echo everyone else that says your basement is looking great. Just a little touch here and there and you'll be "finished."

djearl81:

The Valspar paint worked well for me... I dont really have any complaints about it.

LOL. Yes, a few "touches" here and there and I will be "finished." Its going to be one of those projects that barely rolls over the finish line - when it finally does!

I finished painting the Rec Room... you'll notice that the soffit (and window box-out) is a different color than the walls is a different color than the ceiling. It's difficult to see the different shads of gray on the soffit and walls at night, but with natural light (as in the picture below) it's pretty evident.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7156.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7157.jpg

Bought (5) doors today... 6-panel solid core Oak - why cheap out now at this point, I guess...

Anyway, started the staining process and will shortly be moving on the the varnishing.

Oh yea... carpet is scheduled to be installed next Saturday (02-23-08).

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7158.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7159.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7160.jpg

Ahhh, stain. My favorite part of the build. Not. The doors look great.

Bud

Ahhh, stain. My favorite part of the build. Not. The doors look great.

Bud

Yes, staining is a pain in the back... literally! I had enough after the first one... but I still had 4 more starring at me. LOL. I guess if I dont do it, no one else will, so I dont have a choice ;)

HawkEyeJosh

A couple of questions for you. What is the width of your bar top? Also how high did you make the 2x4 frame?

GotADeal

HawkEyeJosh

A couple of questions for you. What is the width of your bar top? Also how high did you make the 2x4 frame?

GotADeal


Elevation with dimensions:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarElevationDims.jpg

Front Bar wall (shown in plan view):
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarDims.jpg

Update on the carpet install:

They were having problems with the concrete chipping and cratering in some areas... so they're going to glue down the tack strip. However, they didn't have enough (since they weren't planning to need it) to do the entire basement so now I"ll have to wait till Monday until they lay the tack strip. The adhesive takes about a day to dry... then they can install.

Has anyone had any experience with the adhesive / gluing down the tack strip?

In the mean time, I have two 15' large rolls of carpet in my upstairs living room...

(again, the picture makes the carpet seem lighter than it actually is...)

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7161.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7162.jpg

I would have them glue and nail the strips. Even if the concrete chips it is better to have a little grip in the tack strips in case the glue were to give loose.

I would have them glue and nail the strips. Even if the concrete chips it is better to have a little grip in the tack strips in case the glue were to give loose.

I'll 2nd that... if they pull it tight w/ the edge tacking, you'll see and feel the pockets flexing.

From what I've read and heard from friends, you ALWAYS want the basement carpet glued w/o any padding.

If there is a water incident, you are in far better shape, and the carpet feels better.

No you are crazy if you install without padding. You hope the water never plays into it but don't spend three grand and then not spend another $400 for padding!

I'll 2nd that... if they pull it tight w/ the edge tacking, you'll see and feel the pockets flexing.

From what I've read and heard from friends, you ALWAYS want the basement carpet glued w/o any padding.

If there is a water incident, you are in far better shape, and the carpet feels better.

How on earth do you figure that the carpet will feel better on a concrete floor without padding under it? I have never seen basement carpet glued without padding unless it is indoor/outdoor astroturf and I don't think that is the look he is going for. It is very much the norm to run a tack strip in a basement and use padding under the carpet.

I also don't see how gluing your carpet would be an advantage if water leaked in either. If you use a tack strip you can take the carpet and padding up when you get a leak, clean it and let it dry out (especially if you get a good pad). If you glue your carpet to the floor and water gets in you are pretty much screwed if any water gets under the carpet and it will.

Got the carpet installed on Monday morning. They ended up nailing the tack strip down instead of gluing like they had talked about (and the put pad under the carpet...). Luckily for me another job had canceled so there were 2 crews and they knocked the whole thing out in less than 3 hours start to finish!

Carpet in the Theater Room turned out a little lighter than I would have liked... but I think once the baseboard and doors are up it will change the look quite a bit.

I love the color selection of everything in the Rec Room.

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7163.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7164.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7166.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7167.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7168.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7169.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7170.jpg

Very nice Josh!!! Looking forward to seeing the trim start to go up!!!

Is that a keg hiding out back by the bar? ;)

Everything looks great, Josh! What a phenomenal job.

Is that a keg hiding out back by the bar? ;)

Everything looks great, Josh! What a phenomenal job.

That indeed is a keg hiding in the back corner... however it is not full - just decoration. Its in memory of my Freshman year in college where a few buddies and I, um, ?borrowed? it from a party. The remainder of the year it hid in the back of my closet in my dorm room and upon move-out day was concealed in a rubbermaid tote until safely relocated in the back of the truck.

I've been holding onto it and moving it with me for nearly 7 years waiting for its final resting place... ;)

Maybe you could make that keg into a nice lamp, end table, or coat rack someday for that nice bar you got now..... ;)

This weekend we went shopping for furniture. Ended up w/ 2 black leather sofa's and the end table / coffee table set you see in the pictures. I'm a picture reader... so I've added quite a few.

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7172.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7173.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7174.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7175.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7176.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7177.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7178.jpg

Josh

Its amazing how quickly the build comes together once you past the critical carpet milestone. The room looks great, where did you get the leather couches. Do they recline? I am in the process of deciding between couches and theater chairs, what was your determining factor? Do you mind sharing what the couches set you back?

Dave

Josh

Its amazing how quickly the build comes together once you past the critical carpet milestone. The room looks great, where did you get the leather couches. Do they recline? I am in the process of deciding between couches and theater chairs, what was your determining factor? Do you mind sharing what the couches set you back?

Dave

The leather couches were purchased at a "Homemaker's Furniture" which is the largest furniture retailer in Iowa (located in Des Moines, IA). Its a pretty neat place because they have about every brand that you can imagine and because they're so big the prices are really good. Both of the sofa's are leather recliners. I chose the couches over the theater seats because I wanted it to be a place that I could lounge and relax. To me, theater seats are limited... you can only sit... you can't lay around. I ended up paying $700 for each of the two couches... which is significantly less than what the exact same couches are priced at locally. I also got a pretty good deal on the coffee table / end table set.

That's amazing, you did a great job on this whole room, from bar to screen. What are your next steps for this room? Looks like just a few strips of stained wood for the bottom of the screen and the foot of the bar, and you're almost 100%! Any paintings or posters for this room?

That's amazing, you did a great job on this whole room, from bar to screen. What are your next steps for this room? Looks like just a few strips of stained wood for the bottom of the screen and the foot of the bar, and you're almost 100%! Any paintings or posters for this room?

Thanks for the compliments! Next steps for the room:
- Hang the doors (they're stained and varnished... just need to be hung).
- Buy and install the baseboard trim
- The bottom of the screen will actually be black, but I wanted to the carpet down before I added the finishing piece.
- A few odds and ends finishing pieces of Oak on the bar
- Going to get movie posters and hang them above the couch in the theater area. Probably 3 of them spaced evenly would look nice.

Once I get the doors hung I'm probably going to take a break (financially) for a while on things. In the next few weeks I'll be moving the pool table (currently at my parents) and all the goodies that come along with that into the Rec Room. Again, in there I will need to add the baseboard trim and doors and that should be about it!

I'm pretty excited that its almost done! ;)

Hung the two doors in the theater / bar room. Well, actually they aren't 100% complete yet. They're secured on the hinge side, but I'll need to pick up a few shims for the other side. So for now, it'll at least give an idea what the finished product will look like...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7182.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7181.jpg

well for my first post i didn't think i would ever compliment a hawkeye... but i thought my basement project was a pain (well it is when you would rather be working on it than studying for your P.E. exam) but that looks amazing... you have given me many ideas.

looks sweet,

Brandon (a cyclone)

Looks great! just was wandering the demensions of the bar/theater room?

Looks great! just was wandering the demensions of the bar/theater room?

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/FloorPlan.jpg

Great job on your theater area. Thanks for all the documentation over the last few months.

Hey Hawkeye,

What size grout lines did you use on your granite?

Hey Hawkeye,

What size grout lines did you use on your granite?

I might be misinterpreting your question, but if it is about the bar and half-height wall, there is no grout in between the granite tiles. Just pressure fit. If you are referring to the floor, I can't answer that.

I am sure Josh is too busy watching a movie or basketball game. ;)

I was not thinking it was a pressure fit. Seems odd that it would be like that since if you have a spill how do you keep the liquids from seeping between tiles and eventually ruining the substrate? I would have assumed a 1/16" grout line at the very least. I bought the same tile last night for my bar and I put in 1/16" lines for that very reason as I installed it. No biggie. I am sure that either way is fine and can only hope mine looks as good.

I was not thinking it was a pressure fit. Seems odd that it would be like that since if you have a spill how do you keep the liquids from seeping between tiles and eventually ruining the substrate? I would have assumed a 1/16" grout line at the very least. I bought the same tile last night for my bar and I put in 1/16" lines for that very reason as I installed it. No biggie. I am sure that either way is fine and can only hope mine looks as good.

John,

Greg_mitch is correct. The tiles are all "pressure" fit with no grout between them. In addition, they are not adhered to the MDF substrate board under them. While spills are not likely - but a guarantee - I seal coated the entire MDF board under the tiles and also seal coated the interface between the Oak finishing and the MDF board. If there is a big spill, it is possible to lift one or several of the tiles to clean-up and the substrate material will be protected.

It has worked well so far...

John,

Greg_mitch is correct. The tiles are all "pressure" fit with no grout between them. In addition, they are not adhered to the MDF substrate board under them. While spills are not likely - but a guarantee - I seal coated the entire MDF board under the tiles and also seal coated the interface between the Oak finishing and the MDF board. If there is a big spill, it is possible to lift one or several of the tiles to clean-up and the substrate material will be protected.

It has worked well so far...

Thanks Josh. It was somewhat hard to tell in the photos with the bevels on the edge of the tiles. Tonight I have 4 tiles to cut for the ends and some beadboard to put up, then I can move on to my oak edging. I am planning on a dark mahogany stain for my cabinets. Thanks for the inspiration.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/FloorPlan.jpg


I really cant make out the dimensions of the bar / theater room... :confused:

Wow, everything looks awesome! And thanks for posting all the different views. I really appreciate the pictures.

Great job on your theater area. Thanks for all the documentation over the last few months.

Thanks for the comments... I hope that all the pictures and documentation can help others when designing and building their basements. Thanks for reading my thread!

I really cant make out the dimensions of the bar / theater room... :confused:

I've created an enlarged plan of that area with dimensions. Hopefully this will help a little more than the last image. Please note that the dimensions are approximate... not exact.

Let me know if you need additional information!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/EnlargedFloorPlanCustom.jpg

Wow, everything looks awesome! And thanks for posting all the different views. I really appreciate the pictures.

queendvd2,

I'm a picture reader myself, so I know the importance of pictures! Plus, they say a picture is worth 1,000 words... sometimes its just too busy or complicated to explain. Thanks for reading my thread and keep checking back for updates. The plan is to get the pool table this weekend... weather permitting. :rolleyes:

I've created an enlarged plan of that area with dimensions. Hopefully this will help a little more than the last image. Please note that the dimensions are approximate... not exact.

Let me know if you need additional information!

*snip*

Awesome -- thanx for that! Just trying to figure out if what you did would work in my basement. :)

Awesome -- thanx for that! Just trying to figure out if what you did would work in my basement. :)

No problem. If you have any other questions about things I've done, don't hesitate to ask! If it wasn't for other threads on this forum I may not have ended up with what I have, so if I can give ideas to other people... that's great! Please feel free to copy and improve on things I've done...

A few more updates.

1. Finished the crown moulding / trim around the bar soffiting.
2. Move the pool table in and some of the accessories. Nothing too fancy, but it does the trick! Still need to decorate the Rec Room with Hawkeye gear, but its in the works...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7183.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7184.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7185.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7187.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7188.jpg

How is the pool table with respect to playing? I know that earlier you were concerned with having enough space to really get in there for some of the longer shots.

How is the pool table with respect to playing? I know that earlier you were concerned with having enough space to really get in there for some of the longer shots.

Actually isn't a problem at all. There is more than a cue's length between the edge of the table and the wall on the two long sides and of course the two short sides were never a concern. It ended up working out really well...

Looking good Josh. I wish I had a pool table. I suck at it but wish I had one nonetheless.

Thought you might want to see my bar inspired by yours.
http://images35.fotki.com/v1153/photos/1/1014235/5777266/IMG_9325005-vi.jpg

The granite tile look familiar?

This weekend we went shopping for furniture. Ended up w/ 2 black leather sofa's and the end table / coffee table set you see in the pictures. I'm a picture reader... so I've added quite a few.

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7172.jpg

[/IMG]

i am a bit behind, but i like the seating. we went with a more casual seating too and not the theater type. you build is looking fantastic. nice work. later.

Looking good Josh. I wish I had a pool table. I suck at it but wish I had one nonetheless.

Thought you might want to see my bar inspired by yours.
http://images35.fotki.com/v1153/photos/1/1014235/5777266/IMG_9325005-vi.jpg

The granite tile look familiar?

John,

The bar looks great... nice work! The granite does look pretty familiar - and it looks pretty sweet ;) I'm glad that you were able to see what I did and make your own version of it. However, I dont want to take all of the credit because there are a lot of threads on the forum that helped me formulate my ideas. Enjoy the bar!

Bravo Josh!

Just in time for baseball season.

Bravo Josh!

Just in time for baseball season.

Unfortunately I'm not a big baseball fan anymore... but I've definately been enjoying the movies in the theater! Everyone at work jokes that I will be able to show the Bears season opener by 2010... If you remember back I wanted to be able to at least show the '07 opener. Of course the basement has been slow moving... so that's the big joke!

Unfortunately I'm not a big baseball fan anymore... but I've definately been enjoying the movies in the theater! Everyone at work jokes that I will be able to show the Bears season opener by 2010... If you remember back I wanted to be able to at least show the '07 opener. Of course the basement has been slow moving... so that's the big joke!
It won't be a big joke when you show the season opener for '08!! If they keep it up, just tell them they're not invited!! They'll change their tune!!! :p

Anyway, I'm sure they're giving you crap because they're just jealous!! ;)

It won't be a big joke when you show the season opener for '08!! If they keep it up, just tell them they're not invited!! They'll change their tune!!! :p

Anyway, I'm sure they're giving you crap because they're just jealous!! ;)

I just go with the flow... believe me - I dish it out just as much as I get it! It's all in good fun. Now I can't wait for football season... can we just bypass baseball?? ;)

Hi HawkeyeJosh

Great build so far! I am going to duplicate your bar! I love it. One question, On the one drawing the mdf for the bar top is 19.5 in wide for the return side, but 20 in wide for the other. Why is that? I am almost ready for the mdf step and was wondering if both could be 20in wide. Thanks!!

GotADeal (Duane)

GotADeal,

The reason for this is as follows:

If you go to an actual bar, you'll notice that they have several tiers to their bar. There is the lower part of the bar (A), then there is where the glasses sit when they are filling out of the tap (B), and then there is the top of the bar where you would place your drink or meal (C). The reason that the side is a little less than the front is because of that intermediate tier (B).

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarTiers.jpg

If you look at the standard bar "mat" that sits on that portion "B" its usually around 24"x3.5".

http://www.kegworks.com/images/detailed/d_3716.jpg

That meant that if I was going to have a 3/4" trim piece on the edge of part B, that I would need around 4" total for the width of section B. See diagram below:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarDims1.jpg

Now, lets assume that I made both the front and the side the same length, lets see what would happen to the dimensions:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarDims2.jpg

As you can see from the dimensions, the bar mat would no longer fit, so therefore I had to make the sides a little shorter in depth than the front.

Here is an old picture of the bar without part B:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7111.jpg

Here is a picture of the bar with part B:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7192.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7194.jpg

And a few heads up... make sure if you're putting in a sink that you coordinate the height and location of the gooseneck. I still need to fix that, but have been too lazy to do it yet. Right now the sink isn't hooked up to the water, so its not a big deal. But I can't put my part B on yet either...

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7196.jpg

I hope this helps and didn't make things more confusing. If you have more questions, let me know!

Thanks!

HawkeyeJoe

Did you put backer board under the granite? I saw a pic of the granite and didn't see it.

Thanks looks great!

HawkeyeJoe

Did you put backer board under the granite? I saw a pic of the granite and didn't see it.

Thanks looks great!

GotADeal:

No, there is no backerboard under the granite tile. Actually, the tile is just press fit into place and not really secured down. To protect the MDF against spills, etc, I seal coated it before I laid the granite down. This way, if something happens to a tile, I can pull it out and replace it easily.

Hope this helps...

I like the idea of pressure fitting the tile. What did you seal coat the mdf with?

Thanks

wao woao its gr8 ..well which software you used for this desinging

espicailly your kitchen is loking smart

i am also renovating my home...i am going to start a new thread...just a sec..i send you a link..just check it

Hawkeye Josh,

I'll bet it's nice to be finishing such a great basement project - it really is fantastic!

A question about something I remember reading early on in your thread (but cannot find now). Regarding the horizontal steel support you used across the "bartender side" of your bar:

What were the dimensions and wall thickness of the steel you used - I seem to recall it was a rectangular tube.

I am planning a drink ledge/bar surface that will span ~13' across the back of my game room. Not sure if I will need to put supports in the middle, or if I can do it without supports by using some rectangular steel tubing stock...?


Thanks in Advance!
Craig

GotADeal:

No, there is no backerboard under the granite tile. Actually, the tile is just press fit into place and not really secured down. To protect the MDF against spills, etc, I seal coated it before I laid the granite down. This way, if something happens to a tile, I can pull it out and replace it easily.

Hope this helps...

Did you grout the tile or just lay it down with the sides touching? Are you worried about spilling water on the tile or dirt getting between the tiles?

Hawkeye Josh,

I'll bet it's nice to be finishing such a great basement project - it really is fantastic!

A question about something I remember reading early on in your thread (but cannot find now). Regarding the horizontal steel support you used across the "bartender side" of your bar:

What were the dimensions and wall thickness of the steel you used - I seem to recall it was a rectangular tube.

I am planning a drink ledge/bar surface that will span ~13' across the back of my game room. Not sure if I will need to put supports in the middle, or if I can do it without supports by using some rectangular steel tubing stock...?


Thanks in Advance!
Craig

Craig,

Sorry for the late response. I span approximately 10' and ended up using a 2x2 steel tube, 0.25" wall thickness. I had a Structural Engineer at work do the calcs for me... and now that it's instally I can sit on it without any problems. Sounds like you will be spanning a little bit longer, so you may want to consider increasing wall thickness and/or size of the steel tube. The reason I used the steel tube was the eliminate the supports in the center... its' worked well.

Remember though, my steel tube is also reinforced with a 1x1 piece of angle iron which is screwed to the 2x2 tube as shown here:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6724.jpg

Good luck!

Did you grout the tile or just lay it down with the sides touching? Are you worried about spilling water on the tile or dirt getting between the tiles?

Correct, I just laid it down with the side touching. The tiles aren't loose, its a friction fit. I'm not worried about the water because I've seal coated the MDF under the tile. I can strategically get tiles out, so I can always do that if necessary. I'm not worried about dirt since the tiles are so tight together.

Everyone is second-guessing my tile installation... I hope it doesn't turn into a catastrophe!

Correct, I just laid it down with the side touching. The tiles aren't loose, its a friction fit. I'm not worried about the water because I've seal coated the MDF under the tile. I can strategically get tiles out, so I can always do that if necessary. I'm not worried about dirt since the tiles are so tight together.

Everyone is second-guessing my tile installation... I hope it doesn't turn into a catastrophe!


I am not second guessing your installation. I just wanted to know how you did it so I can copy it! I have never laid tile before, but I think I can do it this way.

Hawkeye Josh,

Thanks - appreciate the detail. My bar ledge will be 12.5 feet long. I will be copying your design (Thanks Again). For a little extra margin with my longer length > I will increase the 1" angle iron thickness from 1/8 thick to 1/4 thick.

Just got pricing for these two pieces from a local supplier - the cost came in at ~$140.00. A bit high; but I do have longer than normal stock.

Regards,
Craig

That should work out well. I can sit on my ledge with hardly any deflection at all. Only adding a little over 2' and making the angle iron thicker - you should be more than OK. Can't wait to see what it turns out like... keep us updated with some pictures!

Hawkeye Josh,

Thanks - appreciate the detail. My bar ledge will be 12.5 feet long. I will be copying your design (Thanks Again). For a little extra margin with my longer length > I will increase the 1" angle iron thickness from 1/8 thick to 1/4 thick.

Just got pricing for these two pieces from a local supplier - the cost came in at ~$140.00. A bit high; but I do have longer than normal stock.

Regards,
Craig

Awwww Man, great job on the granite and I really dig the overall aspect of the room.

I am not second guessing your installation. I just wanted to know how you did it so I can copy it! I have never laid tile before, but I think I can do it this way.


I am not trying to knock Josh, but this is probably not the best way to lay tile. If something is dropped on the tile it will most likely shatter without any thinset under it.

I am not trying to knock Josh, but this is probably not the best way to lay tile. If something is dropped on the tile it will most likely shatter without any thinset under it.

Ah, very good point... I hope that never happens! I will say that a friend of mine at work did the same thing with his bar top (just friction fit the tile) and I've been to a few parties where the bar top has taken a beating. Nothing has broken yet... but thats certainly not to say that it couldnt...

I think the advantage that I have is that its only one tile width as opposed to a tile floor which would be multiple tiles wide.

Hey everyone, its been quite some time since I"ve updated the thread. Been pretty busy on the basement as well as everything else. With the nice weather its harder to got work done!

Most notable updates:
- Baseboard trim
- Finishing trim around carpet
- Ceiling above bar

Ceiling above bar:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7211.jpg

A few collectibles (Ted Williams HR ball on right, Alfonso Soriano ball on left). The Coke bottles were a special edition tribute to Kinnick Stadium... so for now they are a good placeholder... GO HAWKS!!! Full size, authentic Bear and Hawkeyes helmets to come... Stay tuned ;)
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7212.jpg

Door Trim
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7213.jpg

Misc Pics:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7214.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7215.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7216.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7217.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7218.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7220.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7222.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7235.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7236.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7239.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7241.jpg

Crappy panoramic...
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/Panoramic.jpg

Enjoy the pics! More to come soon...

Thanks for the additional pics!

Based on your end table, I think it is time for a Harmony remote....;)

Thanks for the additional pics!

Based on your end table, I think it is time for a Harmony remote....;)

LOL... those aren't even all of them that I'll have once I finishing buying components! I'm all about the Harmony remotes - and I've been looking at them - but there are still a few more pressing things before I take the dive and buy one. Still have to tile the bathroom and the bottom of the stairs, but I"ve been holding off on that because I want to install the heated floors - but they're expensive!!!

It's coming along though!

I have been following this project for a while. Nice to see you are almost done. I have done most framing on my basement. Seen some good ideas on this forum. I had planned to modify the bar area. L shape. I would like to use a 45 degree angle on the corner like yours. My L shaped bar will be 6' 3" x 5' 3". wall one built go out from the basement wall is 5' 3". using a 27" sink cabinet, 36" corner cabinet. the second part of L is 6' 3" it will attach to the corner cabinet have an 18" drawer cabinet and a space for a 21" mini fridge. Any help on the angles would help. I don't want to angle cut the cabinets to fit in the L shape - and still use the 45degree corner as you did here. Haven't had a chance to figure out the details?

Hawkeye,

Hey haven't seen any updates or photos in awhile - hope all is well. You get thoise heated floors in yet?

Check out the "bar-ledge" in build - Thanks for sharing your idea!

Go Hawks!

I have been following this project for a while. Nice to see you are almost done. I have done most framing on my basement. Seen some good ideas on this forum. I had planned to modify the bar area. L shape. I would like to use a 45 degree angle on the corner like yours. My L shaped bar will be 6' 3" x 5' 3". wall one built go out from the basement wall is 5' 3". using a 27" sink cabinet, 36" corner cabinet. the second part of L is 6' 3" it will attach to the corner cabinet have an 18" drawer cabinet and a space for a 21" mini fridge. Any help on the angles would help. I don't want to angle cut the cabinets to fit in the L shape - and still use the 45degree corner as you did here. Haven't had a chance to figure out the details?

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, I've been pretty lax on the AVSForum lately... I need to get back in the swing of things!

I'm glad that this thread has been able to give you some ideas and help you out. Feel free to steal as much as you want... I'm not going to take credit for everything - alot of things I stole from other threads too!

You'll see from the pictures below, I used the 45 degree cut for the corner, but it did not require that I cut my cabinets. Here's the trick:

First you can take a look at the bar dimensions, this will give you a better idea of what dimensions will work well for this. The dimensions are the important part of it!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarElevationDims.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/BarDims.jpg

So the dimensions of my bar top make it appear big, but the overhand of the bar top means that the length of my 45 degree angle of the actual bar wall is much shorter.

Here is a picture of the 2x4 stud wall and the 45 degree angle for the base of the bar. Notice its not that large.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6834.jpg

Now all I had to do was notch the bottom corner of the cabinet over the 2x4 sill plate. This wasn't a big deal since the bottom of the inside of the cabinet is about 4" above the floor. I only had to notch 2" above the floor. I've circled the notching:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6831p.jpg


After it was notched, the cabinet sat in there quite nicely. Looking inside the cabinet, you would never know.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6837.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6840.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6844.jpg

Hope this helps! Let me know if you need more explanation...

Crappy panoramic...
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/Panoramic.jpg

Enjoy the pics! More to come soon...


Here, I helped you out a bit.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/Panoramic.jpg

More pictures? :)

There should be some more pictures soon. He is having people over today for the Bears opener and he borrowed my nailer to finish up the trim work.

Here are some more pictures....

I haven't really done much lately that would show a huge improvement. I'm still waiting on the bathroom (exactly why I'm waiting, I"m not sure) and then I'll tile the bathroom and foyer at the same time. Other than that most things are pretty much done (minus little things like can light trim, etc.).

The bar stools are actually pretty retro... my parents had them stashed away in their basement so I've rescued them as a temporary solution.

Enjoy the pics!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7275.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7276.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7277.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7278.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7279.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7280.jpg

Here are some more pictures....

I haven't really done much lately that would show a huge improvement.

For starters, you could get rid of all that hideous black and yellow with the chickens and replace it with something a little classier, like some nice maize and blue block "M"s.

Go Blue!

Here is mine. But, I still am moving furniture...

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j29/GlennMehltretter/P1010083.jpg

nice pool table.... what make/model?

free...

I talked my father in law into letting me "borrow" it... And then I put new felt on it, and new rubbers.

Plays great, 1 inch slate 3 piece top. Its about 14 years old.

Please advise,
I just came across this forum, and I am in the process of building a wet bar in my basement. from what I read if the top of the bar top is at 42" and the counter level or vertical height position of the sink is at standard 36" . this means that the height difference between the two levels is 6"

From the images shown the heights between the bar top and the counter appears to be more than 6"

Please advice if my understanding of the levels are correct.

thank you

Kind regards

dekapp

wow this looks amazing,
please advice on the vertical height dimensions ie if the bartop is at 42" from ground, and countertop (sink level) is at standard level of 36" . however from the images the difference between the two levels appear to be more than 6"

please advice on the levels of the bar top and counter top

thankyou

If you look back through the tread HawkeyeJosh has posted detailed plans for his setup.

If you look back through the tread HawkeyeJosh has posted detailed plans for his setup.

DaveTheWaveUSMC:

Kudo's for being so knowledgable about my thread! Its a pretty neat feeling knowing that others are interested in the project! I hope you've enjoyed the thread, but there is still some more to come....

dekapp:

As DaveTheWaveUSMC pointed out, there is a pretty detailed breakdown of the bar construction and dimensions. These questions have been asked several times, but I think the most recent Q&A session is on page 15 here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14248859#post14248859

Also some more good info on this page:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11583789#post11583789

If that does not give you enough information, its talked about again on page 13 of this thread.

If you've gone through both of those and still have questions, put up another post of you specific questions and I'll be more than happy to answer them all.

Good luck!

Well, it's been nearly forever since I've worked on the basement. But I've finally gotten around to working on the bathroom. My progress includes: plumbing, insulation, drywall, mudding and priming. Here are some pictures as it stands now:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7285.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7286.jpg

Shelving cubby-hole for towels and decorations of choice:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7288.jpg

Looking directly out of the bathroom to upstairs:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7291.jpg

Looking out towards the theater / bar:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7293.jpg

Looking in from the theater:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7292.jpg

What's that hole above the shower for? Its an access to the isolation valves for the bathroom. Also gives me access to the bathroom exhaust vent in-case there are any issues as well as the ductwork dampers that control the upstairs. All that in a 12x12 hole... who knew?
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7294.jpg

Once a tile is selected, I'll tile the foyer at the bottom of the stairs and the bathroom. Add the fixtures and it'll be complete.

Hhhmm... wonder how long it will take me to get around to that?? ;)

Well you've done a great job of letting everyone know what you did and why... I only wish I had a space to do the same.

Keep up the good work.

Hawkeye,

Looking Good - As always your workmanship is 1st Class..!

Wow, did you sweat those pipes yourself or where they already in place like that?

Hawkeye Josh,

I see you have carpeted your basement. Did you have concerns or special preparations for carpet over concrete?

I will be in carpet mode by Spring. Although my basement has always been dry - I have heard of carpet pads with vapor barriers as a preventative measure for mildew, mold, ,condensation,etc.. Did you have any concerns or take any special precautions?

I briefly considered Dri Core, but have decided against it for several reasons.

Ask your carpet retailer for specific padding designed to go on concrete which will include a moisture barrier. It is more expensive though. Mines been in for 2 years with no mildew smell or issues.

Wow, did you sweat those pipes yourself or where they already in place like that?

I dont want to take all the credit for the solder... I had a buddy from work come over and give me a demonstration on how to do it. I thought I had a pretty good idea (I had never done it before) but didn't want to find out otherwise after I turned the water back on! He helped out with quite a few of the joints and I did the rest. It actually turned out really well.

We were able to go quickly since I had the entire system already laid out with each piece already cut, sanded and ready to go...

Short story: No, they were not already in place like that.

Interesting note:
I also did the plumbing for the bar sink. I tapped off my mains with copper and used copper isolation valves. From the isolation valves I used copper, then used a SharkBite fitting to connect to the PEX that I had placed in the wall last year. So far I haven't had any leaks or problems... but the SharkBite fittings are muy expensive! I also had to do the SharkBite fittings under the cabinet due to the PEX. If I had to do over... for the little amount of copper it would have taken, it probably would have been a wash (price-wise) to do it all in copper. Live and learn, as they say.

Alternatives to the SharkBite were normal PEX fittings... but I was unwilling to spend $100 for a PEX crimper for only 4 joints!

Hawkeye Josh,

I see you have carpeted your basement. Did you have concerns or special preparations for carpet over concrete?

I will be in carpet mode by Spring. Although my basement has always been dry - I have heard of carpet pads with vapor barriers as a preventative measure for mildew, mold, ,condensation,etc.. Did you have any concerns or take any special precautions?

I briefly considered Dri Core, but have decided against it for several reasons.

cuzed2:

I guess I never really asked the question... but both the carpet retailer and the installer (obviously) knew that it was going to be placed on concrete and did not offer or advise the use of special padding. I'm not a carpet expert (nor will I claim to be!) but I haven't have any problems yet...

I would have to look back at my reciept about the type of padding (density, thickness, etc.) that I used. I know that, because it was on concrete, they recommended a thickness and density.

Hope this helps???

Here are some of the plumbing pictures I was talking about earlier.

The Copper to PEX connection using SharkBite fittings. Valves are closed and I still need to properly support the valves and PEX.
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7295.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7296.jpg

Here are the plumbing rough-in's below the bar sink:
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7298.jpg

Wow, a two inch drain on that sink?

Wow, a two inch drain on that sink?

Nah... 1 1/2". 2" would be pretty generous considering its only one sink - which I think was probably your initial thought ;)

Thanks Rastan!

I would imagine that he installed it with tack strips..?

Yes, they are able to easily attach the tack strips with special concrete nails.

Josh -
Just read your thread from the beginning and you've done a great job (which you already know). When I saw the picture of the basement floor my first thought was "I hope this didn't happen again with the bad flooding we had in WI this spring and the even worse flooding IA had." It looks like you didn't have any issues though, so that's good.

I'm definitely bookmarking this thread for use when I build my theater / bar / whatever else I can afford.

Josh -
Just read your thread from the beginning and you've done a great job (which you already know). When I saw the picture of the basement floor my first thought was "I hope this didn't happen again with the bad flooding we had in WI this spring and the even worse flooding IA had." It looks like you didn't have any issues though, so that's good.

I'm definitely bookmarking this thread for use when I build my theater / bar / whatever else I can afford.

Naarmraifo:

Pretty impressive of you to sit down and read through the entire thread! I know that just "picture reading" it takes a long time...

Davenport is located on the Great Mississippi River, but it actually wasn't the Mississippi that caused alot of the flooding that was nationallly televised in cities like Cedar Rapids, IA, etc. Don't get me wrong... a significant portion of downtown Davenport was under quite a bit of water, but luckily Davenport is like a big hill sloping towards the river. The likelihood of my house flooding due to the river is never, I just have to worry about my sump pump quitting again!

Glad to hear you enjoyed the thread and hopefully it will help you in your project. Let me know if you have any questions - I'm happy to help. I have to thank alot of the other threads on AVS for the way my basement turned out. I looked at different threads for a long time and took all the ideas that I liked and put my own little twist into it all.

The end result is what you see...

I'm definitely bookmarking this thread for use when I build my theater / bar / whatever else I can afford.

You may already know this...
You can subscribe to this thread and set it up so that the forum will email you when someone adds to the thread. Great way to stay up on Josh's progress.

I ordered the tile for the bathroom / foyer area and the tile came in yesterday. I took the day off and installed it. Still need to grout, but waiting for it to dry thoroughly.

Grout will most likely be lighter gray.

The tile is: American Olean, Park Avenue, Soho Black.

Enjoy!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7314.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7310.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7311.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7312.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7313.jpg

What did you do about the toilet flange??

Damn that is dark. Looks interesting.

What did you do about the toilet flange??

Damn that is dark. Looks interesting.

Toilet flange will sit on top of the tile. The SAN for the toilet has enough clearance around it (that I didn't tile) to screw the flange to the concrete so I will not have to go through the tile to secure down.

We'll see how it works...

I like the dark tile.

You could put some shelves next to the shower, perhaps covered by a louvered door.

Hawkeye Josh

Looking Good.

So; some nice Hawkeye yellow bathroom accents and you will be set.
Good to see you back on the forum and updating!

I like the dark tile.

You could put some shelves next to the shower, perhaps covered by a louvered door.

Thanks Neurorad. I think the dark color turned out well also. I plan to put shelves next to the shower, but wasn't planning to put a door there... although nice thought; perhaps I'll reconsider when all is said and done.

Hawkeye Josh

Looking Good.

So; some nice Hawkeye yellow bathroom accents and you will be set.
Good to see you back on the forum and updating!

cuzed2:

Don't worry, this is the dedicated Hawkeye bathroom. I had to keep the tile and paint neutral for resale and normalcy... but don't doubt for one second that there won't be Hawkeye stuff in there when it's complete!

Just found your thread and amazing.. i can only hope my turns out as nice. This is by far the best step by step quide i have seen on the web. Your bar is almost identical to what i have sketched out for mine +/- a few things.. I cant wait to get started but a new born might throw some time and cash constraints into that idea.. non the less it will happen and i plan on using your thread as my goto guide.

again, well done..

Just found your thread and amazing.. i can only hope my turns out as nice. This is by far the best step by step quide i have seen on the web. Your bar is almost identical to what i have sketched out for mine +/- a few things.. I cant wait to get started but a new born might throw some time and cash constraints into that idea.. non the less it will happen and i plan on using your thread as my goto guide.

again, well done..

SnapBooty:

Thanks for the comments... I'm glad you enjoyed the thread. I hope that you take some of the ideas and put your own twist on them to get something you're really proud of. Hopefully my documentation is well enough that alot of people's questions can be answered.

Feel free to ask questions about mine if you have any.

Good luck on your project!!

Started to lay the tile behind the bar... Just have to add the special cut pieces. The camera doesnt show the true color of the tile very well - remember that its a dark gray. I took the picture AFTER I swept, so there was a ton of dust in the air. Oops

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7021.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7020.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_7019.jpg

Sorry to interupt, I have been lurking/eyeing your build for a few weeks (a bit late) and am very impressed. I was curious about the above pics regarding the tiles. Did you use any type of subfloor under the tile? (plywood,concrete backerboard,etc) I was just curious as I cant really see any in these pics. Also what made you decide to put the tile under the base cabinets as opposed to right up next to them? The reason I ask is I am considering a similar application as assumed I would tile up "to" the cabinets rather than under them but maybe I am wrong in this as I have never tiled before.

Also regarding the framed wall in front of the cabinets what is the height of it before the top was installed? And how did you attatch the plywood underlayment for the bartenders counter on the cabinets? I assume you used a 3/4" peice of plywood ? How is it attatched to the base cabinets?

Sorry to interupt, I have been lurking/eying your build for a few weeks (a bit late) and am very impressed. I was curious about the above pics regarding the tiles. Did you use any type of subfloor under the
tile? (plywood,concrete backerboard,etc) I was just curious as I cant really see any in these pics. Also what made you decide to put the tile under the base cabinets as opposed to right up next to them? The reason I ask is I am considering a similar application as assumed I would tile up "to" the cabinets rather than under them but maybe I am wrong in this as I have never tiled before.

Also regarding the framed wall in front of the cabinets what is the height of it before the top was installed? And how did you attach the plywood underlayment for the bartenders counter on the cabinets? I assume you used a 3/4" piece of plywood ? How is it attached to the base cabinets?

Iusteve:

No need to apologize for "interupting" my thread.... that's what its here for. Let's walk through each of your questions and hopefully I can provide adequate answers for you:

1. Underlayment for tiles
For most applications you are correct, you would want to lay down a cement board or some type of underlayment for tiles. However, since this was in the basement, the concrete floor (slab on grade) acts as your "underlayment" and therefore no cement board is required. Had I installed the tile on the upstairs floor (with OSB flooring) then I would have been required to place tile backer down first. It is my understanding that, when laying tile backer down, you want to secure it to the subfloor with screws at 8" centers. Expanding a bit more on the topic - I used a premixed thinset to adhere the tile to the concrete floor. There are two types of premixed thinset (white and gray). They say that you should not use gray on porcelain tile because the porcelain will absorb the gray color and it will "tint" and discolor your tile. I used it anyway for the bar tile (which was porcelain) and didn't notice a difference, but then again my tile was pretty dark to begin with. The cost difference between white and gray is only a few dollars - white being more expensive. The other thing that I like about the premixed thinset is just that... its premixed! I'm certainly not a professional that lays tile everyday and there's nothing more frustrating thatnrying to get the correct consistency when mixing powder and water. With the premixed you just open the bucket and go...

2. Tile up to or under the cabinets?
Funny that you ask this question... this is an ongoing debate with a friend at work. There are two ways to go about completing a project (any project!) - in my opinion:
A: Take pride in your work. Do it right and do it right the first time. Take extra time to do it right. As someone I know always says "devils in the details" and alot of times its the small things that are the difference between a "good" job and a "great" job.
B: Take shortcuts. Alot of times the end product will look the same as if you had done it "correct" instead of cutting corners. The only one who really knows that you took shorcuts (in the end) is you. Visually it make look completed, but there are always some drawbacks.

For me it's all about option A: take pride in your work and do it right the first time - even if it takes and extra hour.

OK, ok, ok... all lecturing aside, here are some Pro's and Con's. If you are only placing cabinets (meaning no appliances such as dishwasher, oven, etc) then you could get away with tiling up to the cabinets. To conceal the edge of the tiles next to the cabinets you will most likely want to place a trim piece. I dont like this or suggest this... but its not my time and money.

In my strong opinion, the correct way to install the tile would be to install under the cabinets. Now, this does not mean that all the tiles under the cabinets needs to be installed. You could install tile at the front of the cabinets such that the cabinet would sit on the tile. Then, you could leave a gap and install tile at the back of the cabinet (ie, there would be a space of no tiles under the cabinet, but the cabinet would sit on the front and back tiles). Hope this makes sense so far? So why do this? Well, remember that when installing your cabinets you want to make sure that they are level. By placing tiles at the front and back of the cabinet, you should help ensure that they will be level. Depending on how many cabinets your are placing, this could save you a box or two of tiles. If you really wanted to do it correctly... just tile everything!

So whats the big deal about tiling under the cabinets? Think about this: Let's say that you are placing a dishwasher under the counter, between cabinets. In your current house or apartment... take a look at the dishwasher installation. Look at the gap between the top of the dishwasher and the bottom of the counter. Not much room there, huh? In most instances about a 1/2" or less - that's pretty tight!

Eample A:
Now lets take the example that we tile up to the cabinets... well this would mean that we can not tile under the dishwasher either. Tiling under the dishwasher would raise the dishwasher about 5/8" (tile backer 1/4", thinset 1/8", tile 1/4"). Now the dishwasher will no longer fit under the counter!

Example B:
OK, fine... then we just won't tile under the dishwasher either - no big deal! Well... lets stop and think about it first. Let's say that we're going to tile up to the cabinets and both the cabinets and dishwasher are already installed prior to tiling. Now what you've done in front of the dishwasher is created a 5/8" height increase - this means you would not be able to pull this dishwasher out! At this point your alternative would be removing you countertop to get to the dishwasher.

Are my examples exaggerated? Some may argue that, but the basis is still there. I suggest tiling under the cabinets.

3. What are the dimensions of the bartop?
Really good explanations of that using pictures are earlier in the thread, check this link out:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14248859#post14248859

4. Assumed you used 3/4" plywood and how is it attached?
Good question. I actually used 3/4" MDF in lieu of plywood. Plywood has a tendency to bow whereas the MDF is pretty straight and true. I sealed the MDF with a varnish to make it water/spill resistant. The MDF is attached to the cabinets from screws below. Typically, not always, cabinets will have brackets in each of the 4 tops corners. These brackets will have a hole in them for a screw that is used to attach the counter.

OK... that was long. I hope I didn't bore you and I hope that helped. Like I said... different people have different opinions - and those are mine. There is always more than one to accomplish something.

Good luck and if you have more questions, keep 'em coming!

Thanks for following my thread!

Iusteve:

No need to apologize for "interupting" my thread.... that's what its here for. Let's walk through each of your questions and hopefully I can provide adequate answers for you:

1. Underlayment for tiles
For most applications you are correct, you would want to lay down a cement board or some type of underlayment for tiles. However, since this was in the basement, the concrete floor (slab on grade) acts as your "underlayment" and therefore no cement board is required. Had I installed the tile on the upstairs floor (with OSB flooring) then I would have been required to place tile backer down first. It is my understanding that, when laying tile backer down, you want to secure it to the subfloor with screws at 8" centers. Expanding a bit more on the topic - I used a premixed thinset to adhere the tile to the concrete floor. There are two types of premixed thinset (white and gray). They say that you should not use gray on porcelain tile because the porcelain will absorb the gray color and it will "tint" and discolor your tile. I used it anyway for the bar tile (which was porcelain) and didn't notice a difference, but then again my tile was pretty dark to begin with. The cost difference between white and gray is only a few dollars - white being more expensive. The other thing that I like about the premixed thinset is just that... its premixed! I'm certainly not a professional that lays tile everyday and there's nothing more frustrating thatnrying to get the correct consistency when mixing powder and water. With the premixed you just open the bucket and go...

2. Tile up to or under the cabinets?
Funny that you ask this question... this is an ongoing debate with a friend at work. There are two ways to go about completing a project (any project!) - in my opinion:
A: Take pride in your work. Do it right and do it right the first time. Take extra time to do it right. As someone I know always says "devils in the details" and alot of times its the small things that are the difference between a "good" job and a "great" job.
B: Take shortcuts. Alot of times the end product will look the same as if you had done it "correct" instead of cutting corners. The only one who really knows that you took shorcuts (in the end) is you. Visually it make look completed, but there are always some drawbacks.

For me it's all about option A: take pride in your work and do it right the first time - even if it takes and extra hour.

OK, ok, ok... all lecturing aside, here are some Pro's and Con's. If you are only placing cabinets (meaning no appliances such as dishwasher, oven, etc) then you could get away with tiling up to the cabinets. To conceal the edge of the tiles next to the cabinets you will most likely want to place a trim piece. I dont like this or suggest this... but its not my time and money.

In my strong opinion, the correct way to install the tile would be to install under the cabinets. Now, this does not mean that all the tiles under the cabinets needs to be installed. You could install tile at the front of the cabinets such that the cabinet would sit on the tile. Then, you could leave a gap and install tile at the back of the cabinet (ie, there would be a space of no tiles under the cabinet, but the cabinet would sit on the front and back tiles). Hope this makes sense so far? So why do this? Well, remember that when installing your cabinets you want to make sure that they are level. By placing tiles at the front and back of the cabinet, you should help ensure that they will be level. Depending on how many cabinets your are placing, this could save you a box or two of tiles. If you really wanted to do it correctly... just tile everything!

So whats the big deal about tiling under the cabinets? Think about this: Let's say that you are placing a dishwasher under the counter, between cabinets. In your current house or apartment... take a look at the dishwasher installation. Look at the gap between the top of the dishwasher and the bottom of the counter. Not much room there, huh? In most instances about a 1/2" or less - that's pretty tight!

Eample A:
Now lets take the example that we tile up to the cabinets... well this would mean that we can not tile under the dishwasher either. Tiling under the dishwasher would raise the dishwasher about 5/8" (tile backer 1/4", thinset 1/8", tile 1/4"). Now the dishwasher will no longer fit under the counter!

Example B:
OK, fine... then we just won't tile under the dishwasher either - no big deal! Well... lets stop and think about it first. Let's say that we're going to tile up to the cabinets and both the cabinets and dishwasher are already installed prior to tiling. Now what you've done in front of the dishwasher is created a 5/8" height increase - this means you would not be able to pull this dishwasher out! At this point your alternative would be removing you countertop to get to the dishwasher.

Are my examples exaggerated? Some may argue that, but the basis is still there. I suggest tiling under the cabinets.

3. What are the dimensions of the bartop?
Really good explanations of that using pictures are earlier in the thread, check this link out:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14248859#post14248859

4. Assumed you used 3/4" plywood and how is it attached?
Good question. I actually used 3/4" MDF in lieu of plywood. Plywood has a tendency to bow whereas the MDF is pretty straight and true. I sealed the MDF with a varnish to make it water/spill resistant. The MDF is attached to the cabinets from screws below. Typically, not always, cabinets will have brackets in each of the 4 tops corners. These brackets will have a hole in them for a screw that is used to attach the counter.

OK... that was long. I hope I didn't bore you and I hope that helped. Like I said... different people have different opinions - and those are mine. There is always more than one to accomplish something.

Good luck and if you have more questions, keep 'em coming!

Thanks for following my thread!


Absolutely perfect explanation and more than enough but thats good right :) I am working with a concret basement floor so that is perfect and premixed-SPECTACULAR!! Especially for a rookie. As far as the tiling under or up to,all valid points. I will also check out the link and if I have more questions, well then expect to see me back. Until then good luck with the finishing details of your project as we are all watching with wide eyes

I will say that I am the person the debate is with about tiling under or up to cabinets. Of course if you are starting from scratch either raise your cabinets or tile under them.

If you are just replacing your linoleum with tile (which I am doing) it makes NO sense whatsoever to add that much work for marginal payback.

This is my opinion. My countertop height is currently 34.5" to the underside. From looking at lowes.com I can get a dishwasher anywhere from 33" to 35".

It is typical (from what google tells me) that a dishwashers legs can usually adjust almost an 1". I think the diswhasher is a non-issue.

If you don't like putting a quarter round along the floor then yes, this wouldn't be for you.

As for taking pride in my work that goes without saying. I obviously take pride in my work but I also have my priorities. I can't spend all day for several weeks messing with the kitchen. I have other things that would require my time. So in my world, my time is more valuable to me than the project, "being done right", whatever that means.

:D

I will say that I am the person the debate is with about tiling under or up to cabinets. Of course if you are starting from scratch either raise your cabinets or tile under them.

If you are just replacing your linoleum with tile (which I am doing) it makes NO sense whatsoever to add that much work for marginal payback.

This is my opinion. My countertop height is currently 34.5" to the underside. From looking at lowes.com I can get a dishwasher anywhere from 33" to 35".

It is typical (from what google tells me) that a dishwashers legs can usually adjust almost an 1". I think the diswhasher is a non-issue.

If you don't like putting a quarter round along the floor then yes, this wouldn't be for you.

As for taking pride in my work that goes without saying. I obviously take pride in my work but I also have my priorities. I can't spend all day for several weeks messing with the kitchen. I have other things that would require my time. So in my world, my time is more valuable to me than the project, "being done right", whatever that means.

:D

So if I decide no to tile under the cabinets as it is a bar and in a basement on concrete should I put anything under the cabinets or just set them on the floor and attatch them to the framing behind them?

I would at least raise them up so they sit on the same floor level as the finished floor in the room....but really if you don't have anything done in your basement and this is new construction, I would tile under them.

I just got done doing my bathrooms and I completely gutted them to put in the floor. Of course we are talking about 35ft2 and 65ft2 spaces not a 150ft2 kitchen with lots of built-in cabinets.

I would at least raise them up so they sit on the same floor level as the finished floor in the room....but really if you don't have anything done in your basement and this is new construction, I would tile under them.

I just got done doing my bathrooms and I completely gutted them to put in the floor. Of course we are talking about 35ft2 and 65ft2 spaces not a 150ft2 kitchen with lots of built-in cabinets.

This is a small area under a straigh 8ft bar. So sq.ft. is minimal atbest. I may do under them i am not sure yet

Krazy kool, I am going to do something close to this in my basement

[QUOTE=HawkeyeJosh;10981206]

Let me know your comments...


The breakfast bar. The cable laying there is a laptop video / audio hook-up. When its completed, the cable will be in the wall and you will be able to pull it out when needed and hide it the rest of the time.
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p197/jmheacock/IMG_6803.jpg

Ok I have another question what cable is that exactly? Is it a VGA-VGA cableor is that what its called? Is it the same hookup thats on the back of most laptops? And does it have the same end of each side of the cable? Is it run direct to the PJ and left plugged in at all times then when you want to ,you sit at the breakfast bar plug in your laptop and bam your bigscreen web browsing? That is a GREAT idea i need to know more so I can copy copy copy!!!:)

Also what is the depth of your audio rack? I cant see buying one when I could build something.

I'm now in the middle of renovating my house. I've been look some of your house picture and read several comments in this thread. Those are very useful for my house designing, especially your bar. I'm considering to make the same design for my house.

Ok I have another question what cable is that exactly? Is it a VGA-VGA cableor is that what its called? Is it the same hookup thats on the back of most laptops? And does it have the same end of each side of the cable? Is it run direct to the PJ and left plugged in at all times then when you want to ,you sit at the breakfast bar plug in your laptop and bam your bigscreen web browsing? That is a GREAT idea i need to know more so I can copy copy copy!!!:)

Also what is the depth of your audio rack? I cant see buying one when I could build something.


Seems josh is busy with his new roommate! ;)

The cable in the wall is a VGA/Audio cable and I believe he has it routed to this rack. He had originally planned to install a KVM in his rack so he could switch from the HTPC(not there yet) and the laptop connection point. Then there is another VGA cable from the rack to the projector.

I might be making some of that up, but that is what I remember talking about at one time.

Here is the cable he bought...http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10201&cs_id=1020105&p_id=559&seq=1&format=2

If I would advise on this again, I would definitely put an HDMI cable in there as well. I just got a laptop and it has an HDMI connection and that would be far more slick than a VGA connection. But both should be installed IMO.

Hopefully that helps about the cable.

Seems josh is busy with his new roommate! ;)

The cable in the wall is a VGA/Audio cable and I believe he has it routed to this rack. He had originally planned to install a KVM in his rack so he could switch from the HTPC(not there yet) and the laptop connection point. Then there is another VGA cable from the rack to the projector.

I might be making some of that up, but that is what I remember talking about at one time.

Here is the cable he bought...http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10201&cs_id=1020105&p_id=559&seq=1&format=2

If I would advise on this again, I would definitely put an HDMI cable in there as well. I just got a laptop and it has an HDMI connection and that would be far more slick than a VGA connection. But both should be installed IMO.

Hopefully that helps about the cable.


That is the same cable I was looking at. Now my question is with the audio part of the cable if you run the VGA from PJ to Laptop then the only sound you will get is from that of the PJ speaker(if any) or the laptop speaker. So wouldnt you want to have some way to get the sound from the laptop feed(say youtube video) to output through your surround system? How would you do that? Also why would you run 2 VGA's? Wouldnt one direct from PJ to laptop access point (in this case the half wall bar) be enough? I am just not sure on the audio part

That is the same cable I was looking at. Now my question is with the audio part of the cable if you run the VGA from PJ to Laptop then the only sound you will get is from that of the PJ speaker(if any) or the laptop speaker. So wouldnt you want to have some way to get the sound from the laptop feed(say youtube video) to output through your surround system? How would you do that? Also why would you run 2 VGA's? Wouldnt one direct from PJ to laptop access point (in this case the half wall bar) be enough? I am just not sure on the audio part

I think that you are misinterpreting what Greg is saying. I have two VGA cables in series... not parallel.

I have one VGA cable terminal at my half-wall. This VGA cable also includes an audio cable.
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10201&cs_id=1020105&p_id=559&seq=1&format=2

Both the VGA/Audio cable are routed to my equipment rack. At this point, the audio portion is connected to my reciever / audio device. The VGA (video) part of the cable is connected to the second VGA cable
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10201&cs_id=1020103&p_id=3593&seq=1&format=2
... which runs from the equipment rack to the projector.

Thus allowing my video over the projector while getting "surround" sound through my reciever.