"We hired matrix because we had a huge basement that was not finished. I researched many companies and got several quotes, and we ultimately went with Matrix. I can say from start to finish, the experience was awesome."
"Donavan and Mike were great. They totally stripped my bathroom and then installed new drywall and ceiling., painted it. New tub and shower, vanity, fan, lighting. Fixed a major plumbing issue discovered by a 3rd party. All for about the same money we were quoted for just the tub area."
"Did a great job with the installation of drywall down to all the finishing touches. Very conscientious about the existing areas and worked efficiently. Installed shiplap on one wall and trimmed out doors and windows in addition to the original job he was hired for. Very thorough in clean up as well! I would definitely recommend and would not hesitate to use again. Fair priced. Very pleased. Thanks!"
Mills Design and Management, LLC is a family owned company, providing quality service to home owners in southwest Michigan. We pride ourselves on our expert ability to handle each situation. With over 25 years of experience, our staff is highly skilled, and trained. We specialize in basement remodeling, additions, custom barns and garages, and disaster restoration services, from smoke, fire, water, and storms. Our work is never finished until you are completely satisfied and happy. Please call us today, we are looking forward to serving you.
"Matrix did an excellent job installing a bathroom in my basement. Steve was incredible in coordinating the different work that needed to be completed and there were many variables for him to juggle. My bathroom shower is probably the nicest in Southeastern Michigan (not bragging - I'd post pictures if I could). Steve's teams did an excellent job getting everything done and making it look as luxurious as possible. The only constructive feedback I have for the company is that the pricing was very steep considering that I believe many steps in the process may have been eliminated; the sales rep was not familiar with every scope of work necessary which made things confusing for Steve (the Project Foreman), and there was an additional individual whom I never corresponded with which made me wonder if there are too many folks involved to keep the pricing affordable. I paid to install the bathroom what I wanted to pay to complete the entire basement and I had to complete some of the work myself to include painting and flooring installation. Overall the quality of the work is tremendous, however, I still think there's opportunity to restructure the approach to completing projects that could drop the pricing down for the consumer. I would definitely hire the company again as they do incredible work and I couldn't be happier with my completed bathroom."
"It went outstandingly! Kyle and his team were fast, professional, proficient, and extremely nice. We loved working with them, and would continue to use them as projects come up. Could not recommend more!!!"
"I gave Andrew some blueprints for a mud kitchen I had found on Etsy and he put it together and stained it within a day! It was the perfect birthday present for my daughter. Would hire again!"
"Wonderful! Rob met with us and listened to what we wanted to do. He presented us with a detailed proposal at a fair price. He followed the proposal document carefully throughout the project and helped us focus on what we had agreed to do. Both Rob and Tom were very professional and courteous. They were respectful of our home and were a pleasure to be around. By the end of the project they felt like part of the family! Our bathroom was very ugly and outdated. They removed the old cabinets, repaired the plaster, painted, installed new cabinets, tub surround and toilet. It looks beautiful now! In our kitchen they removed wallpaper, repaired plaster, painted walls and ceiling and removed our existing flooring. We found unexpected hardwood underneath so we hired The Sandman to refinish our floors because the damage was more extensive than Rob could repair. Our stairwell was covered with stucco. They removed it, repaired the walls, including a large hole in the plaster and then painted. It looks great. We will definitely hire them again! "
"The new floor installation went great! I love the finished product, it was what I had imagined I wanted before I found Devin to do the work. This was a new floor installation however I know Devin is well versed in several areas of labor such as roofing and bathroom remodels. I would trust him for most if not all of my general remodeling/maintenance needs and would absolutely hire again for my next project, as well as recommend him to all close friends and family. Extremely satisfied, thank you Devin!"
The time it takes to finish or remodel a basement can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even up to a year. On average, the construction phase can take four to eight weeks, but the total project time can extend to three or four months when including planning and permits. The timeline depends on several factors, including the basement's size, design complexity, the scope of the work, and your contractor's availability. A more detailed breakdown for an average-sized basement might include: framing (3-5 days), electrical and rough-in plumbing (3-5 days), drywall installation (5 days), flooring (2-3 days), and final touches like painting and trim (about a week). If preliminary work like installing a waterproofing system or addressing structural issues is needed, the timeline could extend to six to twelve months. Factors like difficult access, material transport, and ventilation needs can also add to the project's duration.
When choosing materials for finishing basement walls, consider factors such as moisture resistance, durability, and fire resistance. Opt for materials specifically designed for basement environments, like moisture-resistant drywall or cement board. Insulation with vapor barriers can help regulate temperature and prevent condensation. Consider using mold-resistant paints or coatings.
Research and consult with experts to select materials that are suitable for your specific basement conditions and intended use. Prioritize quality and compatibility to achieve long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.
Yes, most general contractors require an initial down payment. A reasonable deposit is typically between 10% and 25% of the total project cost, although this can vary by project size and location. This upfront payment helps the contractor cover initial costs like materials, permits, licensing, and hiring subcontractors. The remaining balance is usually billed according to a schedule outlined in your contract, often tied to project milestones or completion dates. Be cautious of contractors who ask for a large deposit of 50% or more, as this could be a red flag for a scam.
Permits may be required for major repairs, structural work, or electrical and plumbing restoration after a flood. Check with your local building department to determine permit requirements and associated fees for your flooded basement cleanup project. Obtaining the correct permits helps ensure work is done safely and up to code.
Basements with persistent moisture problems or flooding shouldn’t be finished until the moisture issues have been fixed. In addition, if your foundation is cracked, you have unmitigated radon levels, or you have asbestos or lead pipes, remediate the underlying problem before finishing your basement. Turning a basement into living space before fixing these issues can lead to serious health risks or structural damage.
The Mattawan, MI homeowners’ guide to basement remodels
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
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.