What is a floating wall, and why does Colorado Springs require one?
A floating wall is fixed to the joists above and rides on long nails over a plate fastened to the slab. PPRBD requires non-bearing basement walls to float, and its detail leaves at least 1 1/2 inches between the two plates.
The ground is the reason. The Colorado Geological Survey calls expansive soil Colorado's most significant geologic hazard, and it describes clay soils in the Colorado Springs area as typically expansive to some degree.
The finishes need room to move too. PPRBD's detail shows the base trim nailed to the base plate only, with a 1/2-inch spacer at the drywall.
Should you test for radon before finishing a basement?
Yes, test before framing, because a vent pipe is easier to run through open walls. El Paso County Public Health reports that over 40 percent of homes tested in the county from 2005 to 2023 had high radon levels.
The EPA recommends testing in the lowest living area when you are deciding on mitigation. Pick a kit marked as certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program.
How high does a finished basement ceiling need to be in Colorado Springs?
PPRBD's basement guide sets a minimum of 7 feet from finished floor to ceiling. Bathrooms, toilet rooms and laundry rooms can drop to 6 feet 8 inches.
Beams, ducts and pipes may hang down to 6 feet 4 inches.
What does a basement bedroom need in Colorado Springs?
A basement bedroom needs an egress window or door to the outside. PPRBD sets the opening at 5.7 square feet, or 5.0 at or below grade, at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high, with a sill no higher than 44 inches.
The window well must reach at least 36 inches out from the foundation. A well deeper than 44 inches needs a permanent ladder.
How do you keep water away from a finished basement?
Start outside the house. A 1996 Colorado Geological Survey publication says a slope of 5 percent across the first ten feet from the foundation is typically recommended, and it warns that downspouts can dump large amounts of roof water into the soil.
Keep sprinklers off the foundation wall and use drip lines for shrubs near the house.
Sources: Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, basement finish plan review (September 2026) · Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, homeowner permits (September 2026) · Colorado Geological Survey, expansive soil and rock (September 2026) · Colorado Geological Survey, HAZ-1996-02 geologic hazards and engineering practices (September 2026) · El Paso County Public Health, radon (September 2026) · Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, testing your home for radon (September 2026) · Wickham's Workbench, Colorado Springs basement finishing cost 2026 (September 2026) · HOMEfix, how much does it cost to finish a basement in Colorado Springs (2020) (September 2026)
