What should I consider when designing a bar in my basement?

• <div><p>Envision the type of bar experience you'd like to create for your guests. For example:</p><ul><li><p>Does your basement have enough finished space for bar stools or seating?</p></li><li><p>What type of additional lighting would set the tone for the room?</p></li><li><p>Are there basement windows or an HVAC system?</p></li><li><p>Do you need new plumbing in your basement for a proper wet bar?</p></li><li><p>Could you be happy with a built-in wall cabinet bar rather than a full-scale wet bar?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Is it more affordable to gut a house than build a new home?

• <div><p>Whether it’s more affordable to gut a house than build a new one depends on the markets where you'd be buying and selling. However, it’s usually less expensive to renovate a home than to build new construction. </p><p>Most homeowners pay between <b>$100,000 and $200,000</b> for demolition and remodeling costs, whereas the average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-house.htm">cost to build a new home</a> is between <b>$139,000 and $531,300</b>. </p></div>

Get matched with top basement remodelers in Manly, IA

Q: How do I know if my basement walls are suitable for finishing?

• <div><p>To determine if your basement walls are suitable for finishing, assess their structural integrity and moisture conditions. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bowing, or excessive moisture. Ensure proper drainage and address any underlying issues before proceeding. </p><p>Consult with a professional if you're uncertain about the structural stability or potential risks associated with finishing your basement walls.</p></div>

Q: Why do some old houses have a toilet in the basement?

• <div><p>Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.</p><p>Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.</p></div>

Q: Is it more affordable to gut a house than build a new home?

• <div><p>Whether it&rsquo;s more affordable to gut a house than build a new one depends on the markets where you'd be buying and selling. However, it&rsquo;s usually less expensive to renovate a home than to build new construction. </p><p>Most homeowners pay between <b>$100,000 and $200,000</b> for demolition and remodeling costs, whereas the average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-house.htm">cost to build a new home</a> is between <b>$139,000 and $531,300</b>. </p></div>

Q: Is finishing a basement worth it, and how much value does it add?

• <div><p>Yes, in most cases, finishing a basement is worth the cost. The project adds valuable, usable square footage to your home and typically provides a return on investment (ROI) of 70% to 75%. For example, an average basement refinishing project costing $32,000 could add between $22,400 and $24,000 to your property's value. The final value added depends on factors like your location, the quality of materials and workmanship, and the features you include, such as a living space, bedroom, or bathroom. To be officially counted in your home's total square footage, the finished space must comply with all local building codes, including requirements for points of egress. However, in areas prone to flooding, a finished basement might be seen as a liability by potential buyers and could potentially decrease your home's value.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Manly, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Manly, IA

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Manly, IA 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 Manly, IA 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 May 01, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Ron was the general contractor for the remodel of the main floor of our lake home. I cannot say enough good things about Ron and the job he did. The job was done on time. Ron was constantly in contact. He contracted and managed multiple people to paint, install tile, replace bathroom cabinetry,...
Meints Construction Builders
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2024
The best thing is he showed up! He did what he said . Started and finished. That’s hard to find these days. From what I witnessed he can perform most remodeling skills at a high level. Lastly we appreciated his positive attitude and work ethic .
Sigrest Home Improvement
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2024
I would never hire anyone else for any of my projects. Javier helped me out so much with getting my dream remodel
Midwest Remodels
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2023
David did an excellent job providing everything I asked for in the bathroom remodel. He worked with all subcontractors (plumbing, electrical & wood working) to ensure all tasks were complete. David also stayed within the quoted timeline and took on additional projects as requested. Would highly...
David Bly Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
He tired selling me a 15k drainage unit with spending less then 5 minutes in my basement. The tech named Ryan tried telling me I had above 20% moisture in my dry wall up to 2 ft and higher in my basement, tired telling me I had mold and I needed to install a 15k drainage unit right away. I had a...
American Waterworks
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2020
Stay away from this company at all costs. We hired Globe Siding and Insulation & Window Co. to put in insulation in the fall of 2018 at a cost of almost $5,000. A little more than a year later, there was considerable black mold and wet insulation in our ceiling. The subsequent contractor we...
Globe Siding, Insulation, & Window Co
Request a quote

Find Basement remodelers in Manly

Fischer Family Services LLC

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

"Great! Exactly what I wanted done."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Dave Navarro Construction

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

"The workmanship was excellent. The work was completed within the time frame agreed upon as well as the price quoted. Everything was done very professionally from start to finish. I HIGHLY recommend Dave Navarro Construction for any interior remodeling. I will definitely use him again - without hesitation."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

"Amanda was really very good! At first I was very skeptical, thinking why did I pay money to just speak with someone on the phone about my kitchen remodel project... but after just a few minutes of her addressing some of the issues/questions I emailed to her earlier, I knew it was worth it. It was very clear that she knew her business and she gave me several ideas that I had not even thought about. I told her that I would definitely recommend her to friends and I will very likely use her again myself for my next home project!

"

California Client Saves with HMD Designer Discounts

Recommended by54%of homeowners

Request Quote

Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We're a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!

Response time5 hrs

Response rate100%

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Founded in 2004 KD Construction quickly developed the reputation for being one of the preeminent full-service residential remodeling firms in the Iowa area. Our goal is to exceed your expectations.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Wolfpack Family Handyman Services, LLC

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Been work in construction sense before I was in high school. Professionally working construction for 13 years. I enjoy helping people get there houses and property to where they want it to be. Doesn't matter how small of a project you have you can call us. I've worked out prices and payment plans with elderly on fixed-income and low income people, so don't hesitate no matter your situation.

Request Quote

Larson's 1 of a Kind Design

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2002

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Welcome to Larson 1 of a Kind Design! We take pride in our reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in home improvement and will do our best to keep you educated on your project. We look forward to earning your business!\n\n

Request Quote

HDZ Construction LLC Facebook

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

HDZ Construction, LLC, is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of general contractor home improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in additions and kitchen remodels, but also offer a wide range of expertise for a variety of other projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships, and guarantee your satisfaction!

Serving Manly, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 5 years of hands on experience to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 11

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

To determine if your basement walls are suitable for finishing, assess their structural integrity and moisture conditions. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bowing, or excessive moisture. Ensure proper drainage and address any underlying issues before proceeding.

Consult with a professional if you're uncertain about the structural stability or potential risks associated with finishing your basement walls.

Envision the type of bar experience you'd like to create for your guests. For example:

Does your basement have enough finished space for bar stools or seating?
What type of additional lighting would set the tone for the room?
Are there basement windows or an HVAC system?
Do you need new plumbing in your basement for a proper wet bar?
Could you be happy with a built-in wall cabinet bar rather than a full-scale wet bar?

Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.

Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.

Whether it’s more affordable to gut a house than build a new one depends on the markets where you'd be buying and selling. However, it’s usually less expensive to renovate a home than to build new construction.

Most homeowners pay between $100,000 and $200,000 for demolition and remodeling costs, whereas the average cost to build a new home is between $139,000 and $531,300.

Yes, in most cases, finishing a basement is worth the cost. The project adds valuable, usable square footage to your home and typically provides a return on investment (ROI) of 70% to 75%. For example, an average basement refinishing project costing $32,000 could add between $22,400 and $24,000 to your property's value. The final value added depends on factors like your location, the quality of materials and workmanship, and the features you include, such as a living space, bedroom, or bathroom. To be officially counted in your home's total square footage, the finished space must comply with all local building codes, including requirements for points of egress. However, in areas prone to flooding, a finished basement might be seen as a liability by potential buyers and could potentially decrease your home's value.

The Manly, IA homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Rachel Hoffman
•
Sep 23, 2026Sep 23, 2026
How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? [2026 Data]
A basement remodel can often cost as much as adding another room. However, homeowners should consider the usefulness and ROI of a remodel.
Haley Nothstein
•
Sep 8, 2026Sep 8, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Frame a Basement? [2026 Data]
The first step toward a cozy finished basement is adding its framing. How much does it cost to frame a basement? Let's break down the numbers.
Amy Freeman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
Basement Remodel on a Budget: Yes, You Can Do It
Do you have a finished basement? If you want to give it a new lease on life, find out how you can do a basement remodel on a budget.
Melissa Graham
•
May 18, 2026May 18, 2026
5 Questions to Ask About Basement Remodels
These questions for professional contractors can help address your basement remodeling needs, design, and the best time to start the project.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
These 8 Red Flags Will Help You Spot a Bad Basement Remodeler
Hiring a bad basement remodeler can wreak havoc on the look and longevity of your unfinished space. Here are red flags to look for as you vet basement contractors.
Deane Biermeier
•
Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
Your Guide to Renovating a Basement From Top to Bottom
Take the mystery out of renovating a basement by following a simple plan to ensure your remodel goes smoothly from start to finish.