"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!
"The team was prompt and very detailed, was able to pivot and suggest little changes that improved the overall look. They reconstructed a soffit and several bathroom and bedroom walls to enhance the appearance. I asked for non textured ceilings and they are flawless. Great communication throughout the job…I will rehire again in the future!!"
Anything having to do with the structure of your home, such as raising the ceiling, is usually the most expensive part of finishing a basement. Another project component that could be a surprisingly high expense is adding an exterior entrance.
Common mistakes when finishing basement walls include neglecting proper insulation, insufficient moisture management, and poor ventilation. Not addressing these issues can lead to mold growth, water damage, and discomfort. Additionally, inadequate planning, improper framing, and rushing the project can result in subpar outcomes.
It's essential to follow best practices, seek professional guidance if needed, and prioritize thoroughness and attention to detail.
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.
When considering finishing your basement, take into account a few pros and cons:
Pros
Can increase the value of your home
Separate space from the rest of the house
Customize and personalize the basement to suit your needs and style
Increase the amount of living space in your home
Cons
May not regain enough value to cover the cost of finishing
Lack of natural light if it’s below ground level
Moisture or flooding can cause costly damage
Installing plumbing and electrical can be messy and costly
The best type of basement ventilation system depends on your budget, the moisture in your basement’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.
The Badger, MN homeowners’ guide to basement remodels
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
If your basement ceiling is low, there are ways to raise it. Learn more about the cost to raise a basement ceiling to be able to enjoy your basement and create a more usable space in your home.