What are the pros and cons of finishing a basement?

• <div><p>When considering finishing your basement, take into account a few pros and cons:</p><p>Pros</p><ul><li><p>Can increase the value of your home</p></li><li><p>Separate space from the rest of the house </p></li><li><p>Customize and personalize the basement to suit your needs and style</p></li><li><p>Increase the amount of living space in your home</p></li></ul><p>Cons</p><ul><li><p>May not regain enough value to cover the cost of finishing</p></li><li><p>Lack of natural light if it’s below ground level</p></li><li><p>Moisture or flooding can cause costly damage</p></li><li><p>Installing plumbing and electrical can be messy and costly</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: Is it less expensive to finish a basement or add an addition?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s less expensive to finish your basement than it is to build an addition to your home. The average cost to refinish a basement is <b>$32,000</b> (between $7 and $23 per square foot) while building an addition to your home costs $50,325 ($80 to $210 per square foot). Depending on the size of your basement and other factors, like moving plumbing and electrical, refinishing a basement is a more cost-effective option in most cases.</p></div>

Q: Can you put a summer kitchen in the basement?

• <div><p>Yes, you can install a summer kitchen or kitchenette in your basement. They serve similar purposes as outdoor kitchens, keeping the main floor of the house cool and providing another space to cook and congregate. Basement kitchens are also a worthwhile alternative for homeowners without much space in the backyard. They come with a few logistical questions to sort out, though, like ventilation and waterproofing.</p></div>

Q: Do general contractors require a down payment for projects?

• <div><p>Yes, most general contractors require a down payment for project completion. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-reasonable-down-payment-contractor.htm">A reasonable down payment for a contractor</a> is <b>10% to 25% </b>of the total project cost, though that will vary based on project size and location. The down payment helps cover the upfront costs of materials and permits and helps ensure payment for the project at hand. </p></div>

Q: What type of wood should I use for framing a basement?

• <div><p>You should always use high-quality lumber for your framing in order to ensure it will last the test of time and resist moisture. Use 2-foot by 4-foot lumber that is pressure-treated for your framing.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Salem, AL

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Salem, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Basement Remodel companies in Salem, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

Last update on November 03, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
We have just completed the remodel of our master shower and are thrilled with the outcome. Ryan and Jason were incredibly friendly and efficient, making our experience outstanding.
Four Seasons of River City
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Reviewed in August 2023
The boss Tomas and the entire team are very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous; dedicated to customer satisfaction. They are very good at incorporating their expertise with the customer's desires, ideas, and vision. They work very quickly while accomplishing high quality results. ...
Asap Remodeling
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Reviewed in March 2020
Mr. Greer and his team did a great job remodeling my kitchen. The prices were great and the employees were very friendly and exceeded my expectations.
Greer Solutions
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Reviewed in October 2018
He gave me a quote for the work I required. Installed a couple of motion lights outside, a light in the basement, and replaced several outlets with GFI as well as repaired some badly installed 3 way switches. When he was finished he billed me for what he had quoted. I was very pleased.
A-R Electrical Services LLC
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Reviewed in February 2015
Fantastic. The entire experience from the beginning through the installation were impeccable. Everyone at the showroom is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. The team that came to our home to create the counter top template were extremely knowledgeable and personable. The installers arrived on...
Mega Granite & Marble Inc
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Reviewed in February 2013
The person who came out to work was pleasant and knowledgeable and was pleasant by nature. He worked in the basement area very willingly and happily.
Majestic Plumbing & Electric
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Reviewed in June 2012
David Brukins work is very good. He knows about different types of windows. There are issues with the type of windows I ordered. He has solved the problems over time. He has stopped the leaking on the south side of my basement. His price is reasonable. He has been doing this for 19 years. I will...
David Brookins Windows & Doors
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Reviewed in November 2011
I have used him probably ten times in the past twenty years. The price depends on the job. I am having one or two store additions as we are remodeling a rental house. It depends on the job and it is not like going to the dentist. His service is excellent. He is medium priced but is always fair....
Ken's Construction Company
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Reviewed in March 2007
We had a roof leak that was draining through a wall and all the way into the basement! They came out the same day and did a temporary, emergency patch. For the actual repair, they had to remove a skylight and replace an area of rotten wood underneath the shingles. They also replaced some vent...
Atlanta Roofing Specialist Inc
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PM Family Construction

3605 Sandy Plains Rd 240-130

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

PM Family Construction

3605 Sandy Plains Rd 240-130

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

223 local quotes requested

PM Family Construction is a family run company specializing in remodels, home additions, bathroom and kitchen remodels, new builds, and more. We are one contractor to get your job finished from start to finish.

"We were extremely pleased with the attention to detail, promptness and professionalism of their entire team. Kudos to you PM Family Construction!"

Liliane A on September 2025

"We were extremely pleased with the attention to detail, promptness and professionalism of their entire team. Kudos to you PM Family Construction!"

Liliane A on September 2025

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Basement Remodeling

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Bathroom Remodeling

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PM Family Construction

PM Family Construction

Ashley's Home Improvements

Ashley's Home Improvements

R&M Building and Remodeling

R&M Building and Remodeling

Southern Roofing and Renovations

Southern Roofing and Renovations

ERS

ERS

Darts maintenance and management llc

Darts maintenance and management llc

USA Roofing LLC

USA Roofing LLC

Management property solution

Management property solution

Absolute remodeling construction

Absolute remodeling construction

A&D Painting and Remodeling

A&D Painting and Remodeling

The Salem, AL homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Frame a Basement? [2025 Data]

How Much Does a Wine Cellar Cost?

Does Adding a Bedroom in the Basement Add Value?

What You Need to Know Before Refinishing a Basement

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