Questions to Ask Before a Basement Renovation
- How can we use the space?
- What’s our budget?
- What work can we do ourselves and when do we hire a pro?
- Does the basement get too much moisture or water?
- What does the basement need to be a safe space?
Is there potential ROI in your basement renovation?
Yes, since you’re adding livable square footage to your house there’s potential ROI (return on investment) from a finished basement. The question is how much and that depends on several factors: the local real estate market and the quality of the renovation. To help figure out if a basement renovation is a worthwhile investment, talk to your real estate agent and get their input.
The more versatile the renovation the better. Converting an unfinished basement into a playroom, game room or living room are all general-purpose spaces a future buyer could personalize to fit their own needs. Avoid creating a space that’s too specific. Aim for quality flooring, moulding and lighting that will hold up and help brighten and modernize the space.
What’s the average cost to finish the basement?
The project cost is dependent on your basement and your vision for the remodel.
The size of the basement, the scope of the project, the quality of materials and finishes, the location of your home and how much you choose to DIY will all impact the total cost.
On average, expect to spend between $5,000 and $20,000. But understand the more complex your renovation, the higher the cost will be. Plumbing or electrical changes like adding a kitchen or bathroom increase the cost. Material prices can also fluctuate based on availability.
If you’re hiring someone to do the work, get several detailed estimates from the contractors you’re considering. If you’re DIYing the basement renovation, take detailed measurements and create a building plan to help price out your materials and finishes.
What projects are typically included in a finished basement?
It depends on your budget and what finishes are already in the basement. Most renovations include insulation and moisture control. Figuring out if your basement has any moisture or water concerns is the first step in deciding if a basement renovation even makes sense. This is a crucial assessment to ensure water damage and mold growth won’t be an issue. It also determines the type of flooring and other materials you should be using in a basement renovation.
For a more complete look, add framed walls and a finished ceiling, electrical, flooring, and paint. Things like plumbing, HVAC and finishing touches like moulding can be added with your needs and budget in mind.
What flooring should I install in a basement?
A primary concern in basements is moisture and humidity, since these conditions can cause flooring to warp or buckle. To prevent this damage it’s important to pick the right flooring for your basement remodel.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): A type of waterproof flooring made from vinyl and designed to look like hardwood flooring. It's durable, affordable and easy to maintain, and can withstand moisture and humidity. It’s also easier to install than hardwood or tile, so a good pick for DIYers.
Ceramic Tile: Tile is a durable and water-resistant flooring option. It comes in a variety of styles, colors and designs, so it's easy to find a look that suits your taste.
Engineered Hardwood: A good option if you like the look of hardwood flooring but don’t want to risk the warping or buckling that could happen in a basement. Engineered hardwood has a top layer of hardwood and a lower layer of plywood, which makes it more resistant to moisture than hardwood.
Carpet Tiles or Wall-to-Wall Carpet: Carpet tiles are another option for basements, as they are moisture-resistant and are easy to replace if damaged. They're also great for adding warmth and comfort to a space. If moisture isn’t an issue, wall-to-wall carpet is a soft, cushioned option ideal for a basement playroom or family room.
Picking the best flooring for your basement depends on your taste, budget and the specifics of your basement space. If you have questions, ask a Lowe's Red Vest associate about flooring types and find out the options Lowe’s offers for installation.
What are the benefits of drywalling the basement?
Drywall gives basement walls a finished look and feel. It also makes it easier to paint walls and add finishing touches like moulding and trim. Drywall can improve the thermal performance of the basement when you insulate. The added layers between the basement and the first floor prevent noise from traveling. Drywall is a non-combustible material that can help slow the spread of fire, too.
What safety precautions should be taken in a finished basement?
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly, just like you need to do throughout the rest of your home. Ensure your basement has proper ventilation, dehumidifiers and air purifiers. Keep the basement well-lit and install handrails on stairs to prevent falls. Make sure electrical work is to code and installed by a licensed electrician. In case of emergency, establish an escape route through a window or door and keep a fire extinguisher on this new level of the house.