All basement construction and remodeling should start with the floor; newer homes that have basements are normally constructed from a concrete block or poured foundation that is on footings and then a concrete floor. These homes usually have a good drainage system that helps keep water away from the structure itself which minimizes the chance of moisture problems. Since an older home may have been built on a dirt floor basement foundation a basement renovation in an older house may have to include constructing a new concrete floor. This can be a major job and unless you have the experience it is a good idea to hire a reliable contractor to do this for you.

As an alternative to constructing a cement slab for your basement remodel job is to install a subfloor made of wood over the existing concrete after uneven areas have been leveled. However, it is not a good idea to use this method if you think that moisture could be a possibility as the pockets that are between the concrete and the wood floor may become inaccessible areas for mildew and mold to form, causing possible odor and health problems once the basement construction is completed. If water were to seep into your basement the whole wood floor would then need to be taken out in order for the area to dry effectively.

You do have other options when it comes to flooring for your basement renovation; if the concrete is just uneven or cracked you can use a floor leveling compound and then cover it with carpet or some kind of laminate. If you already know that the area is prone to moisture then consider gluing carpet directly to floor during the basement remodel; this way if there is water damage it can be cleaned and the carpet can be left where it is to dry which minimizes the cost of water damage restoration if necessary.

Starting with number 10 – Cold Gin by Kiss, the ultimate ode to the male libido and gin; basically saying gin is the answer to all key relationship problems, or at least the ones that happen between the sheets.

Number 9 – Sublime’s “40 oz. to Freedom”; said to be one of the most ideal songs if you need a short hike away from problems and you can insert your drink of choice in front of the 40 oz and customize the song to suit your tastes.

At Number 8 we have “Gin & Juice” by Snoop Dogg; leading us to believe that with juice and gin anything is possible, that it earns you respect and you can get away with pretty much anything you want.

Number 7 – Semisonic’s “Closing Time” – this one is also on the list by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the most all time annoying songs. The song talks about it being last call, the harsh lights coming on and the last effort of finding someone for the night.

Coming in at number 6 is by The Doors “Alabama Song” or Whisky Bar; interestingly this song first appeared in a German opera in 1930 and when the keyboardist, Ray Manzrek heard it The Doors began playing it at the Whisky A Go Go.

Number 5 – “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks; it has proven to be one of the most popular of the country efforts in recorded history. He arrives drunk at his ex’s party and then toasts her and dismisses their former relationship and then it’s back to the bar.

Number 4 – Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville” – his most popular single where he uses his own word of margaritaville to describe a rather alcohol induced, but low-key, state of mind.

Number 3 – “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” by George Thorogood; this song takes you through a mans odyssey of not being able to pay his rent and ends up with him in a bar. After hearing the title song so many times it is a given that you will soon be sending in your own order.

Number 2 – The Beastie Boys “Brass Monkey”; its pulsing beat and witty rhymes stands up against any of the rap contemporaries. The songs title is a drink consisting of vodka, orange juice and run, a little of this goes a long way.

And finally, at Number 1 the best drinking song of all time is “Have a Drink on Me” by AC/DC; although never substantiated many believe this was dedicated to the death of Bon Scott and his hard living, hard drinking ways. After mentioning at least 5 specific alcohols the remainder of the song exudes a happy message of partying hard and living carefree in the moment.

There you have it, the top ten, albeit informal, poll of drinking songs; if there are some you haven’t heard go listen to them or come up with your own list.