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How To Finish Your Own Basement

Is it cheaper to finish a basement yourself?

While NARI estimates the cost to finish a basement as about $40,000, a DIY version can cost a lot less, especially if you’re creative with some of the basics.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement?

Paneling can be used as an inexpensive way to finish you basement walls or ceiling. Use a strong adhesive to put strips of wood on your concrete basement walls, and then use wood screws that match your paneling to attach the paneling to the wood strips.

Do I need a permit to finish my basement?

In most instances, you will need a permit to finish a basement. Many municipalities require permits for finishing a basement if you install a new wall. The definition of a wall includes installing drywall over a previously existing framed wall. Any type of plumbing, electrical, or HVAC work will also require a permit.

What is the most expensive part of finishing a basement?

Framing an unfinished basement can be very expensive due to both the labor and lumber costs. Surprising to many, the cost of lumber can actually end up being the most expensive part of the project. One way to offset those costs is by using metal studs.

Is it worth finishing a basement?

A finished basement can increase your property’s value by 70%. While a basement does not add to the overall square footage of the house, that fact is usually beside the point for homeowners. Finished basements often function as an informal living room/family room, office, home classroom space, and guest rooms.

How much does it cost to drywall a 1000 sq ft basement?

Finishing a basement typically costs between $7 and $23 per square foot with an average of $25 per square foot.Average Cost Per Square Foot to Finish a Basement. Size (Square Feet) Average Price 800 $12,000 1,000 $15,000 1,200 $18,000 1,500 $21,350.

How much does it cost to frame and drywall a basement?

Framing: You should expect to spend about $1 per square foot to frame your basement. Drywall: It costs around $1.50 per square foot to hang drywall in your basement. Ceiling: Basic ceiling installation can cost as little as $1-2 per square foot. But, if the project is complex, it can cost around $6 per square foot.

How do you finish a basement without drywall?

Wood Planks. Wood planks will be a fantastic option to consider for anyone who would like to achieve a rustic look. Plastic Panels. Plywood. Veneer Plaster. Pegboard. Lath and Plaster. Wahoo Walls. Textured Wall Panels.

How can I cover my basement walls cheap?

Fortunately, you can cover basement foundation walls quickly and inexpensively. Attach wood furring strips, Z-shape channels, or 2×4 studs to flat, dry masonry walls, then add insulation and cover the strips or studs with drywall.

What is considered a finished basement?

So, what constitutes as a finished basement? A basement is finished when the entire level is complete and similar to the upstairs living areas. It generally includes an electrical system, heat, finished floors, an accessible entrance/stairway, level ceilings, and finished walls.

How much should I budget to finish basement?

Average Cost to Finish a Basement Type of Cost Cost Average Cost $18,400 Highest Cost $80,000 Lowest Cost $3,000.

How can I save money to remodel my basement?

7 ways to save on your basement remodel Opt for an inexpensive, prefabricated egress window and well. Test exterior walls for moisture before finishing. Cut out some studs. Install drop ceilings. Skip the carpet and install luxury vinyl tile instead. Add a bathroom (or at least a half bath) near existing plumbing.

How much value does an unfinished basement add to a house?

The appraised value of finished basement space is generally 50% to 60% of the value of the main level square footage. To maximize the cost/value ratio, the market experts recommend keeping the basement budget below 10% of the existing home’s value. Staying between 5-10% is a good plan.

Does a finished basement add square footage?

As a general rule of thumb, a finished basement typically doesn’t count toward the overall square footage, especially if the basement is completely below grade—a term that means under ground level.

Is finished basement considered living space?

While a finished basement is considered living space where your property value is concerned, it’s only in rare instances that this living space is counted towards the square footage. Even if your basement is not an exception to the rule, a finished basement is an asset to your property value.

Do you need mold resistant drywall in a basement?

Nor will it prevent mold in the case of flooding, when water saturates the drywall and the organic wood framing behind it. But in rooms that experience frequent humidity and are often subject to mold and mildew, such as bathrooms or basements, mold-resistant drywall is a good choice.

How many sheets of drywall does it take to finish a basement?

For two walls: 270 square feet. Measure the ceiling: 15 x 10 = 150 square feet. Add the areas together: 180 + 270 + 150 = 600 total square feet. Round up: 16.67 = 17 sheets.How to Estimate Drywall or Sheetrock. Sheet Size Square Feet 4×8 32 4×9 36 4×10 40 4×12 48.

How long does it take to frame a 1000 sq ft basement?

An average of 1000 square feet basement takes around four weeks to finish. To get a better sense of your basement remodeling length, we will put down each step of the remodeling project, along with the time frame for each phase of the project. 1. Framing the wall of the basement takes around 2 to 3 days to finish.

How do you make a unfinished basement livable?

16 Finishing Touches for Your Unfinished Basement Better Your Basement. 1/18. Lay Down Foam Mats. 2/18. String Some Lighting. 3/18. Throw Down Area Rugs. 4/18. Install Storage. 5/18. Paint Your Cinder Block. 6/18. Hang Curtains. 7/18. Create an Art Studio. 8/18.