How to Build a Basement Playroom

Finish the walls if they aren't already done. Glue rigid foam board insulation to the walls with construction adhesive. Spread the glue on in a zigzag pattern, then press the board to the wall. Caulk around the edges of the board and in the seams between the boards to seal it completely. Squeeze the caulk tube to make beads along the seams, and then smooth them flat.

Build stud walls, which are wooden frames, with stud beams every 16 inches. Build the wall on the ground and then raise it up. Measure the length of the wall to get the ceiling and base-plate length needed, and cut boards to match the measurement. Use a circular saw.

Measure the height of the wall to know how far apart to place the boards on the floor. Set the boards on the ground at that distance. Measure the inside distance between the two boards and use that measurement to cut the stud beams. Hammer the boards all together with 3-inch wood nails.

Lift the wall up and anchor it to the floor and ceiling with wood screws or masonry screws depending on the surface you are attaching it to. Repeat the process to build all the walls for the basement.

Cover the stud walls with drywall. Use drywall screws to anchor the drywall to the studs. Cut the drywall when needed by scoring it on both sides and snapping it. Cut around outlets or other protrusions using a knife.

Apply mud to the seams of the drywall with a trowel and place drywall tape over it. Spread a second layer of mud on the tape and let it dry overnight. The next day sand the mud surface to smooth it and then spread a wider layer on the wall and feather it out smooth on the edges. Let it dry overnight.

Sand the mud if needed, and paint the walls with paint rollers and paintbrushes. Use bright colors that are fun for the kids, or if you have the talent, paint a mural.

Lay down a large rug instead of having carpet installed. Kids track in a lot of dirt, so having something that can be removed and replaced easily is better. Use a darker color that doesn't show dirt very well and goes with your paint choices.

Put together shelving to cover one wall. Since kids will occupy the room, it is best to use 2-inch screws and anchor them to the wall studs so they don't topple over. Use a stud finder to help you locate the studs.

Fill tubs and bins with the various toys and books. Label the tubs so that the kids know what goes where. If they can't read well, or you have mixture of age levels, also print clip art pictures on labels to put on the bins.