Benefits & shortcomings of basement remodels

In our region, a basement offers one of the best opportunities to expand and gain additional living space. Perhaps the best part is that this space is already built and connected to your home. Oftentimes, this can be done without much structural work, and allows you to make better use of space you already have.

However, a basement remodel isn’t always straightforward. You always want to make sure the basement is structurally sound and dry before you go spending money on nice finishes for the space.The potential of a basement remodel largely depends on factors like the openness of the floor plan, the need for any concrete slab modifications, and ceiling height. If remodeled correctly, a basement can be just as safe, dry, and usable as any other space in a home.

Cracked foundation walls and damp spaces

Two of the most common problems keeping people from jumping into finishing their space are the integrity of their foundation walls and the presence of water or moisture in their basement. Both are valid concerns and should be dealt with professionally prior to finishing a basement space

Water intrusion is often the root cause of most basement issues. When building a house, it is best practice to fight against water intrusion from all sides. Many of the homes prior to the 90s in the Blacksburg area, were built without systems in place to repel and withstand the effects of long term weathering and so they have developed seeping or ground water problems. Because of the soil types in our area, the effects of water on the soil also contributes to movement that results in pressures against our foundation walls that are sometimes more than the wall was originally designed for.

The answer to your foundation problems is often a combination of solutions to fix water intrusion and the structural problems caused by these issues. For minor issues, the problem can often be addressed by a system inside the basement. For more extensive cases, however, solutions may involve addressing the issue externally through excavation to ensure the foundation is fully protected prior to remodeling.

How much does it cost to remodel my basement?

Basement remodel costs vary widely depending on the scope of work. Project scope can range from simple framing and drywall in a single room to fully finishing a 1,000-square-foot space with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. Key cost factors include any necessary moisture protection, structural modifications, and the extent of concrete work required for utilities.

For simpler remodels with minimal underground plumbing or structural changes, costs typically range from $80,000 to $120,000. These projects generally cover a full basement renovation but without extensive rough-ins or structural modifications.

When it comes to more complex projects, they often call for concrete removal, underground plumbing, and significantly more planning and coordination. These projects are assumed to have a high level of finish and include plumbing for a bathroom and sometimes even a kitchen. Their cost will typically range from $120,000 – $200,000

FAQs

Yes, there are multiple solutions and options available for adding plumbing fixtures in the basement. This almost always requires concrete work for it to be done correctly and often includes some type of pump system.

There are lots of solutions for a damp space and we have a baseline treatment for every remodel we do. If the problem is worse than normal, we have more effective systems that can actually remove water before it shows up in your finished space. Each project will require its own unique solution design.

Popular basement projects include:
• Media rooms
• Wine cellars
• Playrooms
• Man Cave
• Yoga rooms
• Home Gyms

Depending on the significance of the cracks, we can recommend several solutions. This is a common problem in the Blacksburg area and there are lots of ways to remedy this. If the problem is bad enough, we will suggest an engineering consultation to discuss the best way to fix the problem.

This will depend on the complexity and size of the space being remodeled but full basements often take between 9-14 weeks to complete construction.

Whether you need a building permit for your project depends on how in depth the work will be. If you are doing a pull-put style remodel where you are replacing finishes in their same location, a building permit is not required. When your renovation includes moving or altering Load bearing framing, Plumbing, Electrical, or HVAC fixture locations, your project will require a building permit. Remember, if you are hiring a licensed general contractor, it is their responsibility to pull the building permit, NOT YOU!

Basement Remodeling Portfolio

Browse some of our recently completed basement remodels.

Basements

FAQs

Can I add plumbing in my basement?

What if my basement is really damp/wet?

What are some common types of basement remodels?

What if my basement walls have cracks in them?

How long will it take to remodel my basement?

Do I need a permit to remodel my basement?

Basement Remodeling Portfolio