Get matched with top basement remodelers in Lyman, ME

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: Can I remodel a basement myself?

• <div><p>Unless you have extensive experience in construction work, remodeling a basement is best left to a professional. There are several tasks associated with this project that require exact precision, including:</p><ul><li><p>Replacing insulation </p></li><li><p>Replacing carpet or other flooring </p></li><li><p>Adding heating and cooling</p></li><li><p>Adjusting or adding walls and doors</p></li><li><p>Altering or adding plumbing elements</p></li></ul><p>If any of these elements is done incorrectly, it could severely impact the quality of your basement remodel and be dangerous. Changing a basement often comes with <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/finished-basement-code-requirements.htm">code safety requirements</a>, like egress windows and proper ventilation. Therefore, leaving it up to a professional is often the best decision.</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 is the best basement ventilation system?

• <div><p>The best type of basement ventilation system depends on your budget, the moisture in your basement&rsquo;s air, and the types of windows you have down there. You should consider all of these factors when choosing a ventilation system. However, the most effective method for basement ventilation is an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or a whole-house ventilation system, which preheats or precools incoming air from the outside while also managing water vapor.</p></div>

Q: How long should you wait after a new build to finish a basement?

• <div><p>You should plan on waiting at least a year and ideally two to three years after construction before finishing your basement. This will give the foundation time to settle in response to the weight of your home and the expansion of the surrounding soil. You can then repair your foundation and seal any cracks as needed before finishing it to reduce your risk of future leaks or other issues.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Lyman, ME?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Lyman, ME

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Lyman, ME 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 Lyman, ME 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 January 05, 2026

Reviewed in October 2025
I am so impressed by the organizational skills and professionalism that Maxine exhibited throughout our project. She listened to our needs and desires, and worked with us to create a final outcome that far exceeded our vision. Thank you Max - we look forward to seeing you again next year for our...
Refresh Your Space
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2024
I had met Michael at an elderly friend's house who was looking for a cleaning service. I was so impressed with what he had to say that I had him and Michelle come to my condo to estimate the cost of a "Deep Cleaning." I wanted my appliances pulled out and cleaned behind, woodwork...
New England Cleaning Company LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
Our 40 year old well pump finally quit and after a number of attempts to contact a well service provider I called Marquis and not only did they answer their phone but they arrived at my home later that afternoon to diagnose and remedy the problem. They replaced the pump down in the well and the...
Randy Marquis Well and Pump
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
Worthington reached out to me the same day, scheduled a meeting in three days. Matt was very he Paul, examined our basement and around the perimeter of the house. I need t o say they sent a thorough ebook to teach us ahead of time (excellent by the way). My home was quite healthy, lucky us,...
Worthington Basement Health Systems
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2021
Jeff Tarbox is great to work with! He just completed a major remodel of my home and the result is even better than expected. He is such a pleasure to work with and does impeccable work! Highly recommend J & J Millwork!!!
J & J Millworks & Construction, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2020
Anthony was extremely professional, knowledgeable and prompt. He did not hesitate to answer any questions that I had. I recommend contacting him about your basement needs.
Concrete Xtreme
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2014
We got multiple bids for our project. Kerry, the owner spent a lot of time at the project before we even gave him the job. He clearly had decades of knowledge working in a variety of soil types and was able to save us thousands of dollars by recommending we put our leach field in another...
Km Tottle Construction Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2013
I live in a lovely 120 year old farmhouse with a stone foundation. The basement was in need of multiple repairs. J.J. bid on the project and came in at what I thought was a fair price. I gave him the job based upon his obvious experience , know-how and responsiveness. He assessed the varied...
Supple Construction Contracting Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2013
i had been interested in installing a wood stove in the basement of our house. i spoke with one chimney sweep (zandy) about the potential and he quoted me $4200 for the installation of a liner in the chimney that was previously used by the oil boiler that had since been removed. this seemed very...
St Nicks Chimney Services
Request a quote