If you’re searching for inexpensive basement finish ideas, you might be considering a DIY finish. However, if you do not have remodeling experience and are unsure of the building and construction codes, you might wind up paying more money than if you were to hire a contractor. Indeed, the most crucial step to save money on a basement makeover is to ensure that you spend your money wisely.
Before investing in a basement remodel, contact the local officials to determine the requirements for licenses, permits, inspections, and building code questions. Starting a project without this information can have a devastating impact on your wallet. In addition, they will be able to tell you whether or not your plans meet the zoning and code ordinances and will advise you on the necessary paperwork and approvals before you begin construction.
Hiring professionals may be your best option. Before beginning your basement finish project, the professionals you hire will want to resolve any pre-build issues such as the following:
- Pre-construction cleaning
- Mildew and mold removal and treatment
- Waterproofing
- Adding or installing a backup sump pump
- Putting in a dehumidifier
If you are not sure if your basement needs waterproofing or if it requires treatment for mildew or mold, it is always better to contact a professional for help. Once you resolve the issues, you can move forward with confidence.
Cost Factors of Completing Your Basement
The average cost for remodeling a basement is $18,000. However, the price range will vary depending on what you do and can start at around $2,800. You can do many different things to get the extra living space you want on a budget. The following are the most critical variables to consider when determining the price for your simple finished basement ideas, regardless of your budget:
- Waterproofing: Waterproofing a basement costs $4,500 on average. However, keeping your basement dry is vital. You do not want to cut corners on waterproofing. Improving drainage around the foundation of your home, sealing internal cinder block, and fixing guttering are all examples of waterproofing. In this step, seek the advice of an expert.
- Materials: A large portion of your budget will go towards materials, which includes items such as lumber, drywall, flooring, cabinets, and finishing. Fortunately, you can also save money in this category.
- Design and Labor: The design and layout you decide on for your basement remodel will also impact the entire cost. For example, adding a bathroom or kitchen can be expensive. Furthermore, if you add bedrooms, the residential construction code requires that every bedroom have an alternative exit. Therefore, including bedrooms in your design requires that you have adequate-sized windows as the alternative point of exit.
How Can I Save Money on a Basement Renovation?
Aside from keeping your basement finish ideas and layout simple, there are a variety of strategies to complete a basement on a budget. If you are shopping for materials, make sure they have a below-grade usage, especially for flooring. Below are a few inexpensive basement finish ideas to get you started.
How Can I Save Money on Flooring for My Basement?
When purchasing flooring for your basement, it is vital to purchase flooring that is water-resistant and durable. Fortunately, many different options check both criteria and are also extremely inexpensive.
Vinyl flooring: There are many budget-friendly alternatives for flooring, with vinyl being a great option. You can find vinyl flooring for less than $1 per square foot on the low end. Vinyl flooring has the added benefit of being waterproof, making it a smart alternative if moisture is an issue.
Carpet instead of tile: Because of the potential for moisture, many homeowners are hesitant to put carpet in a basement. Who wants musty or damp flooring, right? But, on the other hand, as long your space is waterproof, adding carpet provides a comfortable and warm feel. In addition, it will help you save money.
Paint the floor: Don’t have enough money for flooring? Consider painting your basement floor. It is crucial to prepare the surface using concrete-specific products for your primer and your paint. Additionally, it is crucial to seal the concrete surface to prevent wear. Finally, throw down an area rug to match your decoration to add warmth.
Foam mat flooring: Install interlocking foam mats for your home gym or children’s playroom. These mats, which are held together like jigsaw puzzle pieces, soften the space and are sold in various colors.
Savings on Basement Walls
Finishing a basement often entails installing insulation and drywall over concrete or cinder block walls. And, if you and your family will be spending a reasonable amount of time in your new basement, it is essential to install insulation. Furthermore, if your home is in an area where temperatures are extreme, you will quickly recoup your investment from lower heating and cooling bills.
After insulation, you need to decide on drywall or paneling. Drywall is the least expensive choice because it requires less finishing work in the installation process. Drywall also provides greater soundproofing and is less difficult to repair.
If you plan on using your basement less frequently, you can also choose less expensive options that are not permanent such as the following:
Paint Concrete Walls: As long as the walls in your basement are waterproof and in excellent condition, consider leaving them as they are, and instead of covering them with paneling or drywall, you may want to consider painting the walls instead. Consult a painting specialist, just like you would for the floor, to choose the best products to use.
How to Save Money on Basement Ceilings
The ceiling in your basement is most likely your best opportunity to save on your budget. If you like exposed beams, and everything is in great shape, there is no need to do anything. However, there are low-cost upgrades that you can make if you do not like the way it looks.
Paint: An exposed ceiling adds height to your room. To assist in reflecting any natural light, paint the subfloor and joists to the floor above a soft shade of white.
Make a canopy—A soft fabric ceiling can add a romantic feel to your space. Hang fabric from the floor joists, allowing them to hang down to create a billowy look. Alternatively, if you want a more whimsical look, you can use bright-colored fabric.
How to Save Money on Cabinetry
Are you thinking of putting in a new bathroom or kitchen? If so, you’re going to need cabinets and countertops. Cabinetry might be costly; however, you can save on expenses with the options below.
Stock cabinets vs. custom cabinets: The typical cost ranges from $100 at the low end to $1,200 for custom cabinets per linear foot. If your goal is to save money, choosing stock cabinets is an excellent option because they are produced in mass quantities, with fewer choices, and always in industry-standard proportions. Custom cabinetry, on the other hand, is made to order in whatever size you need. You can find inexpensive stock cabinets at your local hardware stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Countertops: Quartz countertops are more popular than ever as an alternative to granite countertops. From a cost perspective quartz is less expensive than granite, which can run as high as $140 per square foot. Another alternative is to create your countertops using concrete or wood.
Partial Basement Finish Ideas
If you only need a new office or a craft room, there is no reason to finish your entire basement. On the other hand, if your goal is to build an in-law suite or a basement apartment, but you are low on funds, you may want to consider finishing your basement one room at a time. If you are on a tight budget, this is a cost-effective alternative to a complete basement finish. Work with a contractor who will finish your basement in phases.
Hire Professionals for Your Basement Finish
Owning a home is a big investment, and oftentimes homeowners look for ways to increase their home value. The above basement finish ideas are simple but effective in boosting your home’s value. But, remember, inexpensive basement finish ideas may end up being very costly if you’re not exactly sure what you are doing. Hiring professionals for your basement finish is key if you are unsure where to start and how to finish.
EnRich Construction is the most trusted contractor in the Mid-Missouri area for home remodels, custom builds, and basement finishes. For all of your basement finish ideas, we are here to help. Looking for a team to come in and finish your basement timely and on a budget? Call EnRich Construction today!