Get matched with top basement remodelers in Merrill, WI

Q: Can you put a summer kitchen in the basement?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a down payment, and how much should you pay up front?

• <div><p>It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.</p></div>

Q: Is it less expensive to finish a basement or add an addition?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s less expensive to finish your basement than it is to build an addition to your home. The average cost to refinish a basement is <b>$32,000</b> (between $7 and $23 per square foot) while building an addition to your home costs $50,325 ($80 to $210 per square foot). Depending on the size of your basement and other factors, like moving plumbing and electrical, refinishing a basement is a more cost-effective option in most cases.</p></div>

Q: What is considered a finished basement?

• <div><p>A finished basement must have a heat and electrical supply with an entrance that meets building code requirements, such as a stairwell to the home's main living space. It often must include finished walls, ceilings, and floors. If the finished basement includes a bedroom, it should have a heat source, an egress window, and a closet.</p><p>Remodeling, as opposed to finishing, means altering an already finished basement by adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living area.</p></div>

Q: What type of wood should I use for framing a basement?

• <div><p>You should always use high-quality lumber for your framing in order to ensure it will last the test of time and resist moisture. Use 2-foot by 4-foot lumber that is pressure-treated for your framing.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Merrill, WI

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Merrill, WI 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 Merrill, WI 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 November 12, 2024

Reviewed in November 2024
Upsurface did a beautiful job leveling a sloping floor in our older home. They also handled some light remodeling that was part of our project. I highly recommend Upsurface for quality work done on time.
UpSurface LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
Very dependable & great work over the last two years since we started a landscape remodeling job. Tore out all of the 50 plus years old shrubs. Consulted with previous business owner to redesigned & installed a nice variety of plants to compliment my home and to be deer resistant. Job...
A Cut Above Yard Services, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Antonio and his guys at A&M are total professionals - remodeled our entire cabin in three months at a reasonable rate. The updates and communication were timely and the finished work exceeded my expectations in every way - which is difficult to do - we are sticklers for detail. I still can't...
A&M General Construction LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
This company works with me to clean up after I’m done with remodels or new builds to have them ready for costumers to move in. They are a wonderful group of people and are very professional. Very trust worthy and efficient in what they do. I’ve also seen them clean for realtors to have their...
Smart General Cleaning Services LLC
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Reviewed in November 2019
Derek, the owner, works extremely diligently and seems to know a lot about his field of work. He tackled all bumps in the road professionally and with expertise. He was in and out of a full demo+remodel of my business office building in record time and left the place spotless. New flooring,...
Allbright Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2019
When I showed Shawn OConnor from Lifetime where the sump hole was, he indicated where he could install the piping due to restrains with the electrical panel and other mechanical pipes. The system was installed with the pipe joints and sump cover neatly & professionally done. The fan itself...
Lifetime Radon Solutions, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2016
Brian is a building contractor. He has built a garage for me and has completed several remodel projects in my home. Bottom line, he does great work. When he starts a project he finishes it in a timely fashion. He doesn't bounce from job to job leaving you wondering when he will be back.
Brian Henkelman Contracting
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Reviewed in January 2014
I searched the web for roofing contractors to repair a brand new roof that has leaked, after the original contractor came back to fix the area leaking, it leaked again this winter, plus he did nothing for the interior damaged caused from the leak. I was referred to Sears by your company,...
Sears Home Improvements - Additions & Remodels
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Reviewed in June 2013
. I plan on using this firm next spring to replce the house roof and remodel my porcg interior. He came up with an idea that will make the area attractive <br /> I was very pleased with his work. I am a person few words, this describes my pleasure with this firm.. <br />
Storm Construction
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Find Basement remodelers in Merrill

Wariner & Winnfield Construction

4.9(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Tyler and Bodi did a fantastic job on our basement remodel! It was our first time ever working with contractors and they made the process a breeze. Even before booking, Tyler made trips to the village hall to understand the specific codes within my area. The remodel included complete framing, electrical upgrades, plumbing rework, drywall, flooring, and install of an egress window. They were flexible with our timeline, communicated well, and kept in mind aesthetics as well as functionality. We were always comfortable with them being in our home and they tolerated our very annoying dog well. We are so happy with how the basement turned out. Thank you thank you!"

+156

Response time3 days

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by92%of homeowners

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

Credit card accepted

"very well, they aloways do a great job and we are very happy with the service"

+25

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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A&M General Construction LLC

4.6(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Antonio remodeled our bathroom with a costum shower along with other little projects throughout the house. I highly recommend him and his crew. Would hire them again."

+25

Response time7 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by87%of homeowners

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Timberdown Designs, LLC

4.5(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He's very responsive and is an excellent professional!"

+52

Response time10 hrs

Response rate85%

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

"I feel extremely fortunate to have found Vicki through Angie's List ! She is an extremely talented person who is very easy to deal with. She has a breath of knowledge that allows her to accommodate my tastes, but also ensure that the overall design is in sync with the design and location of my home. She has a very diplomatic way of suggesting when I'm going astray with my choices and in every case where she has told me "Trust Me" I have been delighted ! She is very aggressive in helping me find the best pricing and often times will work with the vendors directly hence saving me the time. She also has excellent local contacts. Everyone I've worked with through Vicki has been timely, professional, and highly competent.
My project is far from complete. I intend to continue to use Vicki and her expert advice until the end !!!!"

California Client Saves with HMD Designer Discounts

Recommended by54%of homeowners

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We've used Mayotte Investments a few times and will most definitely will be "THE FIRST" company we contact or suggest with remodel or building needs. They do the job right even if the right way is harder, but better results. Honest hard working group."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very good! very timely, Informative they told me what is happening, they used plastic to cover things so that there were no dust. I'm going to try to hire him again on putting some windows and I was very happy ."

+19

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It went really well. He did the work and completed it on the evening he came. He was on time and we were pleased with getting it done.
"

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Hip & Ridge Construction

4.5(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The windows our great! Energy saving due to the insulated glass saves money and never fogs or has condensation on the windows. The durability and ease of cleaning and opening these windows are a dream! Along with the aesthetics.
The crew that came to install the windows did awesome work fast cleaned up there work area things were in great shape when leaving. Since then I have had follow up calls and follow visits to make sure everything is working as I believe it should be which it is. Great company!! Would have them do any work for me and my family and would have them do anyone else's work too. Do not let this company slip by without a try!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 17

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

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.

It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.

It’s less expensive to finish your basement than it is to build an addition to your home. The average cost to refinish a basement is $32,000 (between $7 and $23 per square foot) while building an addition to your home costs $50,325 ($80 to $210 per square foot). Depending on the size of your basement and other factors, like moving plumbing and electrical, refinishing a basement is a more cost-effective option in most cases.

A finished basement must have a heat and electrical supply with an entrance that meets building code requirements, such as a stairwell to the home's main living space. It often must include finished walls, ceilings, and floors. If the finished basement includes a bedroom, it should have a heat source, an egress window, and a closet.

Remodeling, as opposed to finishing, means altering an already finished basement by adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living area.

You should always use high-quality lumber for your framing in order to ensure it will last the test of time and resist moisture. Use 2-foot by 4-foot lumber that is pressure-treated for your framing.

The Merrill, WI homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

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

See all articles

Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? [2026 Data]
A basement remodel can often cost as much as adding another room. However, homeowners should consider the usefulness and ROI of a remodel.
Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Frame a Basement? [2026 Data]
The first step toward a cozy finished basement is adding its framing. How much does it cost to frame a basement? Let's break down the numbers.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement? [2026 Data]
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.
Amy Freeman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
Basement Remodel on a Budget: Yes, You Can Do It
Do you have a finished basement? If you want to give it a new lease on life, find out how you can do a basement remodel on a budget.
Melissa Graham
•
May 18, 2026May 18, 2026
5 Questions to Ask About Basement Remodels
These questions for professional contractors can help address your basement remodeling needs, design, and the best time to start the project.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
These 8 Red Flags Will Help You Spot a Bad Basement Remodeler
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.