Remodeling your basement is a great way to add extra living space and increase the value of your home. You can use your finished basement as a family room, home theater, home office, or even an additional bedroom. A remodeled basement adds valuable living space to your home and can increase its resale value. However, before embarking on a basement remodeling project, it's best to think about how you plan to use your new space and the improved quality of life a remodeled space can create for you. In this article, we'll explore what goes into a quality basement remodel and walk through the added value it can add to your home and life.
What Factors Should You Consider When Planning Your Basement Remodel?
Before taking on a basement remodel, it's important to consider the size and scope of the project, the quality of materials used, what contractor you want to work with, and how you plan to use your remodeled basement. Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let's explore the primary factors that will impact your basement remodeling project.
#1 Size & Condition Of The Basement:
The current condition and overall size of your basement are two of the most critical factors that influence what your basement can become and what the total investment for your basement remodel will be.
Even if your basement is smaller, it's important to note that the final cost of a remodel doesn't scale linearly with the size of the existing space. Different-sized basements often still require the same number of visits from tradesmen, and there are economies of scale involved with fixtures and features in larger basements.
The existing condition of the basement is the next factor to consider. A completely framed basement that already has electrical installed requires a much different scope of work than a fully finished basement that needs to be demolished so that the layout can be rearranged. The condition of your home's foundation is another important factor to consider before starting a basement remodel. Any cracks or sagging to the existing foundation will need to be addressed before the basement can be finished and trimmed out.
#2 Labor & Materials:
Each home has its specific architectural needs, and so does each basement. Depending on what features you would like in your new basement, different subcontractors and tradesmen may be involved. A typical basement remodel includes hiring a designer or architect to create a new layout and construction plans for permitting and for tradesmen to work from. Relocating switches and outlets or adding new walls will require an electrician. A plumber may be required even if you don't install any new fixtures to relocate existing pipes. All of these decisions, starting with how your new basement remodel will be designed, factor into the final scope and total investment required for your project. However, it's critical to note that the overall labor and material costs will largely depend on the size and conditions of your basement.
#3 Work Permits:
If you need to add new walls for your basement remodel, your contractor must apply for permits from your local building authority. Before you start remodeling your basement, it's essential to check the permit and inspection fees required in your city and state. Depending on your city, county, and state, permits require a flat fee or a percentage of the estimated project cost. Your remodeling contractor will make sure all of the necessary permits are filed for your project, and their cost will be reflected in the proposal you receive.
#4 Choice Of Materials:
The choice of basement building materials, like decoration elements and appliances, can largely affect the basement remodeling cost and the final aesthetic and usability of your home. If you want to have clarity on the final investment your remodel will require, it's important to discuss your style and aesthetic tastes with your designer. For example, the choice of using hardwood flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring, or carpet all have a big impact - especially in a large basement where all of the material needs to be tied together between rooms. Appliances are not typically included in the remodel scope, but it's important to think about what you will use the completed space for. Using your basement as a home theater would require running conduits through the wall for electronics and audio wiring, for example.
#5 Contractor Selection:
Different contractors can produce vastly different outcomes for your project, both in the experience you and your family have with them in your home and the quality of work that you and your family will notice for years to come. One of the most important factors to consider is what type of contractor you hire. Your average contractor charges by time and materials, meaning that they have an hourly rate for their work and start your project with an estimate of how much time the work will require. If the project takes longer than expected, you can end up paying much more than you expected when you agreed to work with them. They may also require you to hire an architect to prepare plans, or worse - give you a rough sketch that looks nothing like the final build.
Ealy Construction is a design-build remodeler that provides fixed cost estimates for their work. That means that you'll know exactly what you're going to pay for your remodel before you ever agree to start construction. For more information about the different kinds of cost models that contractors in our area use, read through this article: Comparing Contractor Pricing Models.
Going Beyond the Basics: What Does A Basement Remodel Cost in Moscow or Pullman?
Because every home is so unique, the "average costs" you may see online rarely reflect reality. Not only can each contractor have a large variance in the quality of work and investment required to work with them, but there are also large regional differences in the cost of your basement remodel as well.
In the Moscow Pullman market, a typical remodel returns about 63.6% of its cost in added home value, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2021 Cost vs. Value report. A mid-range basement remodel can cost anywhere from $45,000 to $80,000, while a high-end remodel can cost upwards of $100,000 or more. These differences further reinforce the importance of working with a contractor that can provide as much clarity as possible for your specific situation. If you're well informed about the challenges and opportunities with your home's basement remodeling project, the better equipped you'll be to make decisions that are best for you.
What Basement Modifications Are Typical When Tackling a Basement Remodel?
Plumbing:
Depending on the intended use of your basement, you may need to install or re-install plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers. If your basement does not have plumbing, you will need to factor in the connection of water and sewer with the rest of the home. Plumbers may also need to relocate pipes and plumbing vents when a basement layout is modified.
Waterproofing & Foundation Repairs:
Waterproofing is not essential for all basements. However, many basements have water leakage problems. So to safeguard your basement from water damage, you might want to consider basement waterproofing. Waterproofing your walls during your remodel could save you money in the long run. It's best to correct any foundation issues while the foundation is exposed - you definitely don't want to tear out your newly finished walls to get to the source of a leak.
Framing:
Basement framing is an additional factor influencing the overall scope of a basement remodel. Framing defines the layout of the space and houses all of the plumbing, electrical, and insulation.
Wiring & Electrical:
Wiring and electrical are important factors to consider when determining the scope of your remodel project. You'll want to consider how many outlets and light switches you would like and where they are positioned on the walls. Planning out your lighting to match the use of each room is important as well. Thoughtful overhead lighting in a kitchenette can set off the design features of cabinets, while accent and bias lighting can make your basement home theater your favorite place to hang out.
OIder homes often require updating or upgrading electrical wiring to meet current building codes and safety standards. A competent contractor should factor in all of these details in your project's design.
Insulating:
Insulating your basement is essential for keeping the space warm and comfortable, as well as preventing moisture from causing mold growth. A well-insulated and ventilated basement will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If your home has moisture issues or a sump pump, make sure that any foundation issues are corrected as part of your remodel plan before insulation is installed.
Does Your Dream Home Have These Basement Features?
If you're considering a basement remodeling project, remodeling an existing room or adding a new room can be a game-changer! Whether you dream of a cozy guest bedroom or a luxurious bathroom, these additions can significantly boost your home's value. Not only are new rooms a beneficial long-term investment in your home, but they can also significantly improve your quality of life.
Adding a Basement Bathroom: New bathrooms can be built with many exciting features like a steam shower, heated floors, instant hot water, or a waterfall shower.
Adding a Basement Bedroom: A new bedroom can give your family space to call their own or make an excellent space to host guests or family while they visit.
Adding a Basement Wet Bar: A wet bar is a fantastic addition to any living space, transforming it into an ideal entertaining area for guests.
Adding a Basement Fireplace: A fireplace is a great design feature for a living room or entertainment space.
Adding a Basement Home Theater: A home theater that is properly insulated can provide a thrilling hang-out spot with minimal noise and disruption to the rest of the home.
Adding a Basement Home Gym: A home gym can save hundreds of hours a year in travel time and gives you a convenient workout space that is tailored to you.
Adding A Basement Rental: Rental income from WSU and U of I game days and events can make a big difference to your family's income.
Why Should You Partner With Ealy Construction For Basement Remodeling?
Ealy Construction proudly serves Moscow and Pullman for all of your basement remodeling needs. Our experienced remodeling experts will help you plan out a clear vision for your new basement, with features and aesthetics that are tailored to you. Our in-house designer will prepare 3D models of your space, allowing you to visualize the remodeled space and feel confident about how beautiful and functional your basement remodel will be. Because we guide you through an extensive pre-construction process, all of our homework is done up front and prevents the stress of same-day decision-making that is typical of less organized remodeling projects.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you bring your basement remodeling vision to life!
Final Thoughts:
A remodeled basement can add significant value to your home, improve your quality of life, and create new living spaces that your friends, family, and guests will love. By partnering with a reliable design-build firm like Ealy Construction, you can feel confident that your basement remodel will fit your specific needs and aesthetic taste. Contact us today, and let's talk about how we can transform the house you like into a home that you love.