Top-rated basement remodelers.

Get matched with top basement remodelers in Cottage Lake, WA

There are 33 highly-rated local basement remodelers.

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Cottage Lake, WA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

TRUSTED BY COTTAGE LAKE, WA HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.6
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon89
    Verified basement remodels reviews

Find Basement remodelers in Cottage Lake

Avatar for Renovate Construction, LLC

Renovate Construction, LLC

1523 NW Ballard Way
5.00(
13
)
Approved Pro

Renovate Construction, LLC

1523 NW Ballard Way
5.00(
13
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
7 years of experience

Renovate Design/Build is a woman-owned family business servicing the Greater Seattle Area. Each person on our team is an integral part of our company's success, providing excellent service and beautifully finished remodel projects for our clients. As a small business, every job is important to our team at Renovate - you are never just a number. Please call us today for a free consultation!

"We worked with Renovate from August 2024 through April 2025. Our experience was exceptional. Ross, Eric, and Jeremiah were efficient and effective, treating our project with great care. The Renovate team stands out in several ways: - Their pricing is transparent. We paid an hourly cost and subcontractor costs, plus a fixed mark-up, which aligned incentives. Amanda provided receipts and timesheets regularly. - They have superb attention to detail. They pointed out issues we might have missed and ensured they were fixed. - They were super responsive, encouraging us to text or email any time and often responding quickly. They kept us updated on the timeline and explained any delays. - They have a strong client focus. They addressed subcontractor errors quickly and reminded us to ask for what we wanted, even if non-standard. They provided recommendations but let us make the final decisions. We highly recommend the Renovate team. For our more detailed review, see Google."

Mark V on May 2025

Renovate Design/Build is a woman-owned family business servicing the Greater Seattle Area. Each person on our team is an integral part of our company's success, providing excellent service and beautifully finished remodel projects for our clients. As a small business, every job is important to our team at Renovate - you are never just a number. Please call us today for a free consultation!

"We worked with Renovate from August 2024 through April 2025. Our experience was exceptional. Ross, Eric, and Jeremiah were efficient and effective, treating our project with great care. The Renovate team stands out in several ways: - Their pricing is transparent. We paid an hourly cost and subcontractor costs, plus a fixed mark-up, which aligned incentives. Amanda provided receipts and timesheets regularly. - They have superb attention to detail. They pointed out issues we might have missed and ensured they were fixed. - They were super responsive, encouraging us to text or email any time and often responding quickly. They kept us updated on the timeline and explained any delays. - They have a strong client focus. They addressed subcontractor errors quickly and reminded us to ask for what we wanted, even if non-standard. They provided recommendations but let us make the final decisions. We highly recommend the Renovate team. For our more detailed review, see Google."

Mark V on May 2025


Avatar for RICCON CONSTRUCTION LLC

RICCON CONSTRUCTION LLC

16821 72ND AVE NE
4.37(
19
)
Approved Pro

RICCON CONSTRUCTION LLC

16821 72ND AVE NE
4.37(
19
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
100 local quotes requested
18 years of experience

Riccon Construction LLC is a Licensed & Insured General Contractor serving King & Snohomish County. We serve both residential and commercial customers and are listed with the Better Business Bureau. We offer quality craftsmanship at an affordable cost and treat every customer like family. We provide free estimates and are happy to meet you in person to discuss your next project.

"Fast, efficient and high quality workmanship. Jeff, Jon and their team were highly communicative and knowledgeable about our home remodel project. Will definitely be using them again!"

Bella K on February 2024

Riccon Construction LLC is a Licensed & Insured General Contractor serving King & Snohomish County. We serve both residential and commercial customers and are listed with the Better Business Bureau. We offer quality craftsmanship at an affordable cost and treat every customer like family. We provide free estimates and are happy to meet you in person to discuss your next project.

"Fast, efficient and high quality workmanship. Jeff, Jon and their team were highly communicative and knowledgeable about our home remodel project. Will definitely be using them again!"

Bella K on February 2024


Avatar for PNW Design & Remodel

PNW Design & Remodel

17301 133rd Avenue Northeast
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro

PNW Design & Remodel

17301 133rd Avenue Northeast
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
21 local quotes requested

PNW Design & Remodel is a premier local general construction company transforming kitchens and bathrooms, offering personalized transformations that merge style and functionality. Our streamlined process guarantees a smooth journey from concept to completion, promising a stress-free experience at every step! By staying ahead of trends and utilizing quality craftsmanship, we create interiors that blend modern design with timeless elegance. Trust us to deliver exceptional affordable results that turn your house into the home of your dreams. Instagram link for more photos: https://www.instagram.com/pnwdesignandremodel?igsh=MXJwdnZoeW15cDJqbA==

"Amir did a great job on my bathroom. I was very specific in my vision and he made sure to stay within budget and make my dream bathroom a reality. He was always communicating and involving me, which I really appreciated!"

Ieva K on March 2024

PNW Design & Remodel is a premier local general construction company transforming kitchens and bathrooms, offering personalized transformations that merge style and functionality. Our streamlined process guarantees a smooth journey from concept to completion, promising a stress-free experience at every step! By staying ahead of trends and utilizing quality craftsmanship, we create interiors that blend modern design with timeless elegance. Trust us to deliver exceptional affordable results that turn your house into the home of your dreams. Instagram link for more photos: https://www.instagram.com/pnwdesignandremodel?igsh=MXJwdnZoeW15cDJqbA==

"Amir did a great job on my bathroom. I was very specific in my vision and he made sure to stay within budget and make my dream bathroom a reality. He was always communicating and involving me, which I really appreciated!"

Ieva K on March 2024


Avatar for GMG CONSTRUCTION, INC.

GMG CONSTRUCTION, INC.

23210 57th Ave W
4.33(
75
)
Approved Pro

GMG CONSTRUCTION, INC.

23210 57th Ave W
4.33(
75
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
25 local quotes requested
27 years of experience

We are a full-service, custom, complete home improvement, remodeling and renovation specialist contractor, based in Seattle. GMG Construction has been providing general contracting services for nearly two decades in Seattle and the surrounding areas. By combining innovative design, unsurpassed craftsmanship and a personal approach to each project, we help our clients create the home of their dreams.

"An appropriate replacement stair was provided and carefully installed. The politeness and courtesy of the skilled installers was simply outstanding. The custom work in fitting the stairs to the existing attic opening was a marvel of workmanship. The cleanup of the area was extremely thorough. We would hire GMG again without hesitation. We highly recommend!"

Clark S on February 2021

We are a full-service, custom, complete home improvement, remodeling and renovation specialist contractor, based in Seattle. GMG Construction has been providing general contracting services for nearly two decades in Seattle and the surrounding areas. By combining innovative design, unsurpassed craftsmanship and a personal approach to each project, we help our clients create the home of their dreams.

"An appropriate replacement stair was provided and carefully installed. The politeness and courtesy of the skilled installers was simply outstanding. The custom work in fitting the stairs to the existing attic opening was a marvel of workmanship. The cleanup of the area was extremely thorough. We would hire GMG again without hesitation. We highly recommend!"

Clark S on February 2021


"Excellent. They are true artisans. And they stand behind their work."

Vickie E on August 2025

My specialties are home remodeling all interior and exterior work Interior and exterior painting Drywall installation Floor installation Landscape Roofing Epoxy coating This is a self owned company that provide excellent customer service by ensuring your dream becomes a reality

"Excellent. They are true artisans. And they stand behind their work."

Vickie E on August 2025


Excel General Contractor, LLC

P O Box 1350
4.60(
86
)
Approved Pro

Excel General Contractor, LLC

P O Box 1350
4.60(
86
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
35 local quotes requested
50 years of experience

Excel General Contractor is a full service home remodeling and construction contractor. We offer a high level of customer service while maintaining fair pricing. Our team is small enough that you get individualized attention but big enough to get your project done effectively and efficiently. We do all projects from small repairs and renovations up to designing and building you a complete new custom home.

"Nate allowed me to order my bathtub myself, which was nice. Lowe's failing to deliver when promised, was not. This delayed the start, and although it did take longer than I expected, everything came out great. They did not charge me extra after the water damage was exposed, which was a relief. One of the other estimates I got from a general contractor was for 3x as much, AND they planned to add on after the wall was opened. The bathroom specialists wanted 150% of what we paid, and I think we ended up with better results."

Christopher B on March 2025

Excel General Contractor is a full service home remodeling and construction contractor. We offer a high level of customer service while maintaining fair pricing. Our team is small enough that you get individualized attention but big enough to get your project done effectively and efficiently. We do all projects from small repairs and renovations up to designing and building you a complete new custom home.

"Nate allowed me to order my bathtub myself, which was nice. Lowe's failing to deliver when promised, was not. This delayed the start, and although it did take longer than I expected, everything came out great. They did not charge me extra after the water damage was exposed, which was a relief. One of the other estimates I got from a general contractor was for 3x as much, AND they planned to add on after the wall was opened. The bathroom specialists wanted 150% of what we paid, and I think we ended up with better results."

Christopher B on March 2025


Avatar for Skyline Builders WA INC

Skyline Builders WA INC

123 Main St.
5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro

Skyline Builders WA INC

123 Main St.
5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
192 local quotes requested

At Skyline Builders WA, we uphold the core values of honesty, reliability, and superior craftsmanship. Established in 2019, we specialize in transforming bathrooms and kitchens, bringing our expertise to Bellevue and the wider King County area as trusted general contractors. Licensed by the Washington State Board, our unwavering commitment to ensuring 100% customer satisfaction propels every project forward, guaranteeing a journey devoid of surprises or disappointments.

"Well, here is a contractor story you don’t always hear. My bathroom was remodeled late last year. Unfortunately, my tub started leaking into my neighbors condo. I texted Tony and heard back in 15 minutes. A crew was by the next day and it was fixed without questions and at no cost to me. This company has integrity, pride and excellent customer service. You will not be disappointed!!!!"

Rebecca H on May 2025

At Skyline Builders WA, we uphold the core values of honesty, reliability, and superior craftsmanship. Established in 2019, we specialize in transforming bathrooms and kitchens, bringing our expertise to Bellevue and the wider King County area as trusted general contractors. Licensed by the Washington State Board, our unwavering commitment to ensuring 100% customer satisfaction propels every project forward, guaranteeing a journey devoid of surprises or disappointments.

"Well, here is a contractor story you don’t always hear. My bathroom was remodeled late last year. Unfortunately, my tub started leaking into my neighbors condo. I texted Tony and heard back in 15 minutes. A crew was by the next day and it was fixed without questions and at no cost to me. This company has integrity, pride and excellent customer service. You will not be disappointed!!!!"

Rebecca H on May 2025


Avatar for Classic Remodeling NW Inc

Classic Remodeling NW Inc

9502 19th Ave SE
4.54(
41
)
Approved Pro

Classic Remodeling NW Inc

9502 19th Ave SE
4.54(
41
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
39 local quotes requested
16 years of experience

At Classic Remodeling NW. Inc. our mission is to build lifelong family relationships with our clients, co-workers and community neighborhoods through the remodeling process. Our guiding principles are those of commitment, honesty and personal accountability through a high level of communication and respect for one another. We can build or remodel any part of your house to make your dreams come true! Communication is a tool we use every day to make sure we know what you want. We keep your home neat and clean the entire time we are working and make sure that your satisfied. With Classic Remodeling NW Inc., you are not just a customer, you are family. Our team gets to know you personally so we can make sure your dream will come to life and you will be more than satisfied with the results, and the cost! We build our team on "Honesty, Ethics, and Morals". Let us show you the Classic Remodeling NW Inc. difference!

"I am a repeat customer, so I knew the carpenter, Joe, coming in. I started by using their design contractor. I gave her the colors and ideas (beach theme, ceramic wood-look floor tiles), and she pulled the rest together. Invaluable because I can't trust my own taste. They removed a square shower in the corner and a set of shelves next to it, and glassed in that end of the room for a full shower. We put tile down along the whole room, with a recessed shower pan, and a linear drain against the wall. Joe built-in medicine cabinets, and trim all around the room, per my design pictures. The subs included a glass door guy, the plumber, the tiler, painter, and the countertop slab tiler. We also had some work done in our hallway. They removed the single boob light from the middle, and installed two recessed lights on either end, along with putting two switch boxes on either end of the hallway. Joe built a floor to ceiling cabinet in a 13” dead space at the end of the hallway, which included a laundry hamper on tracks, cubbies, and shelves. And then on a whim, I asked to have our old hallway linen cupboard doors replaced to match the new ones. We had two leaks during and after, but one reason I would use them again, is how they handled both times. One was a leak from the plug on the toilet supply. We found it on a Saturday morning, and I ended up waking up our carpenter with my text. He came out and figured it out and fixed it by 1. The other one was after everything was done and cleaned up, and we had paid for everything. The basement bathroom ceiling, fan, and wall below the master was wet one day, and we realized a joint in the pipe from the master toilet to the stack was slowly dripping between the two rooms. I texted Joe again, and he referred me to our GC, who came out with a plumber and fixed it. They had to make a hole in the downstairs drywall, so he has been coming back regularly to put three layers of mud on the new drywall. I was so sure that they would regretfully find that it wasn't their fault and we would have to deal with the cost and bother of finding a plumber and carpenter. Start to finish, it took about four months, but three weeks of that was the initial tile order, and another three for an incorrect tile order."

JOELLE B on March 2019

At Classic Remodeling NW. Inc. our mission is to build lifelong family relationships with our clients, co-workers and community neighborhoods through the remodeling process. Our guiding principles are those of commitment, honesty and personal accountability through a high level of communication and respect for one another. We can build or remodel any part of your house to make your dreams come true! Communication is a tool we use every day to make sure we know what you want. We keep your home neat and clean the entire time we are working and make sure that your satisfied. With Classic Remodeling NW Inc., you are not just a customer, you are family. Our team gets to know you personally so we can make sure your dream will come to life and you will be more than satisfied with the results, and the cost! We build our team on "Honesty, Ethics, and Morals". Let us show you the Classic Remodeling NW Inc. difference!

"I am a repeat customer, so I knew the carpenter, Joe, coming in. I started by using their design contractor. I gave her the colors and ideas (beach theme, ceramic wood-look floor tiles), and she pulled the rest together. Invaluable because I can't trust my own taste. They removed a square shower in the corner and a set of shelves next to it, and glassed in that end of the room for a full shower. We put tile down along the whole room, with a recessed shower pan, and a linear drain against the wall. Joe built-in medicine cabinets, and trim all around the room, per my design pictures. The subs included a glass door guy, the plumber, the tiler, painter, and the countertop slab tiler. We also had some work done in our hallway. They removed the single boob light from the middle, and installed two recessed lights on either end, along with putting two switch boxes on either end of the hallway. Joe built a floor to ceiling cabinet in a 13” dead space at the end of the hallway, which included a laundry hamper on tracks, cubbies, and shelves. And then on a whim, I asked to have our old hallway linen cupboard doors replaced to match the new ones. We had two leaks during and after, but one reason I would use them again, is how they handled both times. One was a leak from the plug on the toilet supply. We found it on a Saturday morning, and I ended up waking up our carpenter with my text. He came out and figured it out and fixed it by 1. The other one was after everything was done and cleaned up, and we had paid for everything. The basement bathroom ceiling, fan, and wall below the master was wet one day, and we realized a joint in the pipe from the master toilet to the stack was slowly dripping between the two rooms. I texted Joe again, and he referred me to our GC, who came out with a plumber and fixed it. They had to make a hole in the downstairs drywall, so he has been coming back regularly to put three layers of mud on the new drywall. I was so sure that they would regretfully find that it wasn't their fault and we would have to deal with the cost and bother of finding a plumber and carpenter. Start to finish, it took about four months, but three weeks of that was the initial tile order, and another three for an incorrect tile order."

JOELLE B on March 2019


Johnson and Sons Construction

6618 Marine View Dr
4.97(
93
)
Approved Pro

Johnson and Sons Construction

6618 Marine View Dr
4.97(
93
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
17 years of experience

We are a family owned & locally operated general construction / remodel company with over 60 combined years in the industry. Although we are general contractors and can do everything, we specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. We have found that through proper communication and great listening our customers are more at ease and comfortable from beginning to end. It is our pleasure to provide top service in design assistance, material decisions, planning, demo and project completion. We go out of our way to uniquely tailor our service to each of our customers needs, wants and desires. We realize our customers invite us into their homes to provide the best service possible and we don't stop until we have done our best to help our customers turn their dreams into a reality. Thank you kindly for taking the time to look into Johnson and Sons Construction, LLC. We look forward to the opportunity to serve!

"I reached out to Johnson & Sons and several other contractors to discuss the possibility of opening up and completely remodeling my kitchen and bathrooms, with the addition of a shower to the former half bath off the master suite. After receiving bids and meeting with each contractor, I went with Johnson & Sons due to the transparency and consideration Vic Johnson showed when discussing the project and its challenges, as well as providing a detailed quote. Because this remodel involved the removal of walls, tiling of the kitchen/bathrooms, potential size constraints, and a re-plumbing of the house, It was very important for me that things be done correctly, to code and with permits. Once demo and construction started, things proceeded at a brisk pace with minimal lag between subcontractors, and inspections. Their tile guy, Tony was great to work with and very helpful with making the appropriate detail selections around the showers. We did have a long wait for a cosmetic piece of cabinet siding, which ended up being the final part needed to complete the project. Vic was direct with me about the issue and the delay. Such a minor issue is in my opinion, very small potatoes compared to having quality work done. Ultimately, Johnson & Sons came in slightly under their contract price - a very pleasant and welcome surprise."

William L on October 2025

We are a family owned & locally operated general construction / remodel company with over 60 combined years in the industry. Although we are general contractors and can do everything, we specialize in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. We have found that through proper communication and great listening our customers are more at ease and comfortable from beginning to end. It is our pleasure to provide top service in design assistance, material decisions, planning, demo and project completion. We go out of our way to uniquely tailor our service to each of our customers needs, wants and desires. We realize our customers invite us into their homes to provide the best service possible and we don't stop until we have done our best to help our customers turn their dreams into a reality. Thank you kindly for taking the time to look into Johnson and Sons Construction, LLC. We look forward to the opportunity to serve!

"I reached out to Johnson & Sons and several other contractors to discuss the possibility of opening up and completely remodeling my kitchen and bathrooms, with the addition of a shower to the former half bath off the master suite. After receiving bids and meeting with each contractor, I went with Johnson & Sons due to the transparency and consideration Vic Johnson showed when discussing the project and its challenges, as well as providing a detailed quote. Because this remodel involved the removal of walls, tiling of the kitchen/bathrooms, potential size constraints, and a re-plumbing of the house, It was very important for me that things be done correctly, to code and with permits. Once demo and construction started, things proceeded at a brisk pace with minimal lag between subcontractors, and inspections. Their tile guy, Tony was great to work with and very helpful with making the appropriate detail selections around the showers. We did have a long wait for a cosmetic piece of cabinet siding, which ended up being the final part needed to complete the project. Vic was direct with me about the issue and the delay. Such a minor issue is in my opinion, very small potatoes compared to having quality work done. Ultimately, Johnson & Sons came in slightly under their contract price - a very pleasant and welcome surprise."

William L on October 2025


Avatar for ATG Built

ATG Built

8230 S. 192 St.
5.00(
4
)
Approved Pro

ATG Built

8230 S. 192 St.
5.00(
4
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
27 local quotes requested

ATG Built has been a trusted authority in Kitchen and Bathroom remodeling throughout the Greater Seattle area for over 11 years. Our expertise extends to a wide variety of services, catering to full home renovations, bathroom and kitchen remodels, and additions. Our comprehensive offerings includes securing permits, design, structural changes such as wall removal and beam installation, layout modifications, roofing, siding, staircase enhancements, heated floor installations, electrical work, mechanical systems, HVAC, plumbing, drywall, and the installation of custom or budget-friendly builder-grade cabinets and countertops. We take care of every aspect of your project, illuminating often overwhelming experience of coordinating with multiple contractors. Our one-on-one approach with each customer ensures that every detail is precise to industry standards. Prior to commencing your remodel, we offer a complimentary onsite estimate conducted by our project manager that helps to determine the necessary scope of work for your project. Following the onsite assessment, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in our showroom, where you can explore our selections. Our staff will guide you through the entire remodeling process, offering a various selections of stone, tile, and cabinet samples tailored to your project needs. In-house designers are available to assist you in making selections within your budget. Additionally, we specialize in in-house fabrication and installation of custom kitchen countertops, islands, vanities, and more. Our experienced team ensures a seamless project progression, addressing your inquiries and coordinating critical project tasks. ATG offers competitive and budget-friendly pricing, ensuring that your renovation goals are within reach. We look forward to working with you, and transform your dreams into reality. Additional phone number: (253)290-1963.

"Atlantic Tile & Granite did a great job on our kitchen countertops and island in our old house in 2013, so we had them to do the countertops and island for our newly built house (2023) as well. Once again, the outcome was nothing less than fantastic."

Scott W on August 2023

ATG Built has been a trusted authority in Kitchen and Bathroom remodeling throughout the Greater Seattle area for over 11 years. Our expertise extends to a wide variety of services, catering to full home renovations, bathroom and kitchen remodels, and additions. Our comprehensive offerings includes securing permits, design, structural changes such as wall removal and beam installation, layout modifications, roofing, siding, staircase enhancements, heated floor installations, electrical work, mechanical systems, HVAC, plumbing, drywall, and the installation of custom or budget-friendly builder-grade cabinets and countertops. We take care of every aspect of your project, illuminating often overwhelming experience of coordinating with multiple contractors. Our one-on-one approach with each customer ensures that every detail is precise to industry standards. Prior to commencing your remodel, we offer a complimentary onsite estimate conducted by our project manager that helps to determine the necessary scope of work for your project. Following the onsite assessment, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in our showroom, where you can explore our selections. Our staff will guide you through the entire remodeling process, offering a various selections of stone, tile, and cabinet samples tailored to your project needs. In-house designers are available to assist you in making selections within your budget. Additionally, we specialize in in-house fabrication and installation of custom kitchen countertops, islands, vanities, and more. Our experienced team ensures a seamless project progression, addressing your inquiries and coordinating critical project tasks. ATG offers competitive and budget-friendly pricing, ensuring that your renovation goals are within reach. We look forward to working with you, and transform your dreams into reality. Additional phone number: (253)290-1963.

"Atlantic Tile & Granite did a great job on our kitchen countertops and island in our old house in 2013, so we had them to do the countertops and island for our newly built house (2023) as well. Once again, the outcome was nothing less than fantastic."

Scott W on August 2023

...
Showing 1-10 of 225
Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

In addition to overseeing new home builds, construction managers work on large renovations and major remodels. For example, they may work with designers and oversee the construction of a finished basement, kitchen renovation, or a home addition. They may also oversee large-scale remodels, such as the update of a historic home. Construction managers step into small projects for more specific assistance, such as building budgets and compiling the team.

The difficulty of adding a basement to an existing house can vary depending on the house’s location, the size of the basement, and the type and condition of the existing foundation. Adding a basement is a job best handled by the pros, so you’ll need to enlist professional help for this project.

Finishing an unfinished basement adds the most value, with an average return of 70% or $22,400. A bathroom addition in the basement will provide an ROI of 75%, but the higher cost will leave you with a lower actual return of $9,000, on average. Finishing a basement and adding a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom to rent the space will leave you with the highest possible ROI, as you could see well over 100% if you rent the space out long-term.

You technically can paint wires in a basement ceiling, but there are several important safety and code considerations. It's safe to paint non-metallic sheathed cable as long as the labeling remains visible. You can also paint low-voltage wires and conduit and junction boxes to help them blend into your basement. 

However, you should not paint damaged or deteriorated wiring is a fire hazard because it poses a fire hazard. The same goes for painting over high-heat wires that connect to heat-generating appliances or systems. Be sure to avoid painting multiple coats onto any wires, as that traps heat and poses fire risks.

Yes, it is possible to turn a regular basement into a walkout basement. Doing so involves excavating the land around at least one side of your basement foundation, installing retaining walls to create a permanent below-grade area outside your home, and then cutting into the foundation to install an exterior door that leads out to the new space. This is an expensive and time-consuming project, but it can add a lot of value and utility to your home.

The Cottage Lake, WA homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

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