"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 average cost of remodeling a basement is $30 to $75 per square foot. If your space is unfinished and looks like it may need more help, use the higher number when calculating your estimated basement remodeling costs. A good rule of thumb is to add an additional 20% to the top of your estimate to cover any “what if” situations.
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.
Living in a finished basement is acceptable, but only if the space has the proper points of egress and includes smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors to ensure the safety of the occupants. A good way to ensure your finished basement is suitable for use as living space is to get the basement finishing project properly permitted.
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.
Renovation enhances functionality, increases home value, and can add new space for personal or family needs. It typically modernizes older unfinished basements for new uses.
The Carlin, NV homeowners’ guide to basement remodels
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.
