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As a leading real estate data company, Kukun has detailed data on virtually every home in America. We use this data about your home’s size, bedrooms, bathrooms, location, value, and more, to create a highly accurate cost estimate of the renovations you want to do.

Plus, we show you the ROI on your renovation and options for saving money or making more luxurious selections.

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Basement remodel cost

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Remodeling an existing space Expanding an existing room Adding new square footage to the house
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Estimate the cost to remodel a basement

Want to remodel basement, or convert it into a usable room? You could turn this otherwise underutilized storage space into a guest bedroom, a home office, or a fully finished entertainment space. The first part of your planning is getting an estimate for the basement remodel cost. Once you have that figured out through a basement finishing cost estimator, the home improvement project will have a better chance of running smoothly without a glitch.

The average cost to remodel basement runs to about $21,578 - with homeowners spending anywhere between $12,230 and $150,000. The reason for such a huge price range is that your basement remodel cost will vary depending on the scope of work, the size of your space, the total material cost, labor cost, and what you want to transform your basement into.

For instance, remodeling a 1,000 square feet basement complete with a wet bar and a full bathroom can cost you $70,000. Larger basement remodeling projects with high-end finishes and conversion options can cost you about $150,000. Smaller basements (anything under 700 square feet) cost between $9,000 and $50,000. That translates to about $50 per square foot. The reason is that you can only add minimalist design additions such as a family den, a half bath, a basement kitchen, or a guest room when you're finishing a basement.

The average per-square-foot cost for a basement remodel comes to approximately $30 to $75 per square foot for a standard-size home. You can expect to pay $150 per square foot if you're looking for high-end finishes and upgrades in your basement renovations.

The total cost varies with the type of room you want. For example, a basement bathroom may cost $125 per square foot while adding a living room to your basement may cost you $30 per square foot.

If you want to turn your basement into a full-fledged apartment, you'll have to shell out anywhere between $50,000 to $100,000. A cost of finishing a basement calculator will give you the approximate cost estimate depending on the inclusions you want to make for the project.

The average cost of basement renovation varies depending on a number of factors:

  • The basement's square footage and design plan
  • Whether or not you're making structural alterations
  • If you're adding utilities, such as electrical work or plumbing work
  • The type and grade of finishes you desire
  • Material as well as local labor cost involved in your basement renovations
  • Any unique conditions regarding the project

The labor cost to finish a basement runs to $16 per square foot on average. This comes to about 30% to 40% of your total remodeling cost. For example, the labor cost to finish a basement that's 500 square feet will come to around $8,000. This amount covers the cost of hiring professionals such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and general laborers.

If you have a particular room design or floor plan in mind, you can make your basement the ultimate comfort room in the house. Here are some ways homeowners have renovated their basements.

  • Home theater room: You'll have to install the requisite wiring below the subfloor for the projector or television, the speakers, and the subwoofers. And, design space for a few reclining chairs and side tables.
  • Game room: This project too will need wiring for the gaming system, an audio-visual system, and storage solutions for headphones, controllers, and speakers.
  • Laundry room: You'll need to factor in a lot of storage space for dirty clothes, hangers for drying clothes, open shelves for folded clothes, and baskets for fabric softeners and detergents. There will also be a requirement for installing a sink and faucet for rinsing clothes to wash away any stains.
  • MIL suite: A mother-in-law suite in the basement will be the perfect solution to provide a family member with an independent living space within the property. You'll need a bedroom, a functional kitchen, a bathroom, and a small living room to complete the in-law suite setup.
  • Walk-out basement or a garden basement: If your house is built on a slope, the basement may well look like the first floor - allowing you to walk straight into your yard. Or, if about half of your basement looks out over the backyard, you may consider adding a garden to add to the charm. In both cases, you'll need to install a deck from the first floor to the ground.

The type of basement conversion or basement renovation you want will determine its final pricing. Here are a few inclusions that you may require:

  • Basement bathroom remodel ($6,600 to $16,500)
  • Master bedroom suite ($25,000)
  • Bedroom remodeling ($3,500 to $10,500) - including flooring, paint, a closet and an egress window
  • Home theater ($11,500 to $29,500)
  • Wet bar installation ($6,000 to $22,500)
  • Sauna installation ($2,000 to $6,000)
  • Home gym ($300 to $15,000)
  • Fireplace installation ($900 to $3,800)
  • Permits ($100 to $2,000) - including home inspection
  • Basement walkout doors ($2,500 to $10,000)
  • Waterproofing basement ($2,250 to $7,100)
  • Rewiring the basement ($500 to $2,500)
  • Basement insulation ($500 to $1,500) with fiberglass batting
  • Basement framing ($5 per square foot)
  • Drywall installation ($1,000 to $2,900)
  • Interior wall painting ($500 to $4,500)
  • Basement flooring installation ($1,500 to $4,500)

Although a bathroom addition in the basement is not an easy task, it's worth the effort and expense. Keep in mind that it will increase your home value significantly. You'll need to move around plumbing pipes and install a sewage pump as well as a backwater valve to ensure proper drainage. Also, take measures to prevent moisture issues with a dehumidifier and vented fan system while following the building codes.

Here are some bathroom inclusions with their average costs:

  • Pressure-assisted toilet: $125 to $450.
  • Up-flushing toilet: $400 to $1,300.
  • Sewage-ejector system: $940 to $4,400.
  • Composting toilet: $200 to $1,100.
  • Fiberglass and tub combination shower: $1,070 to $1,180.
  • Shower stall: $830 to $1,720.
  • Bathroom sink faucets: $150 to $800.
  • Showerheads, shower panels, and faucets: $90 to $10,000.
  • Bathroom light fixtures and shower lighting: $10 to $4,500.
  • Bathroom mirror: $12 to $3,000.
  • Towel bars, pegs, and hooks: $40 to $160.
  • Bathroom exhaust fan: $80 to $400. Plus $250 to $500 for the fan installation.

Our basement remodel cost estimator is a free tool that helps you calculate the cost of finishing a basement and turning it into a standard room. Simply enter your specifications to get an estimate of your total basement renovation cost, instantly! Armed with a realistic budget for your basement renovation project, you'll have a definite advantage before the construction work begins.

The basement finishing cost calculator tool is easy to use. It uses relevant data such as the type of renovation you want, your zip code, and the project size to arrive at an estimate to remodel basement.

  • 1. Select basement remodel cost calculator on the home renovation cost estimator page
  • 2. Choose the type of basement remodeling you plan to make from these three options:
    • Renovation
    • Expansion
    • Addition
  • 3. Enter the size of your basement
  • 4. Select the basement additions you want to make from these options:
    • Floor
    • Lighting
    • Paint
    • Cabinets
  • 5. Provide your address with house details and zip code
  • (Your location helps us give you a better cost estimate as we can keep a track of the labor and material prices, permit history, and similar basement renovations in your neighborhood.)

  • 6. Enter your home size
  • 7. Mention the approximate property value
  • Get your personalized project cost estimate! What's more, you can customize the price estimate according to different basement finish levels and whether you plan to hire a general contractor or not.

A finished basement improves the look, value, and comfort level of your home. What's more, if and when you decide to sell your house to potential buyers, they'll love your creative basement remodel ideas and basement renovations.

Getting a cost estimate for your basement conversion will give you a fair idea of how much of an investment you'll require for this type of home renovation. It will help you organize your home improvement project better - effectively managing all the milestones and your budget.

A free cost estimate is also the best way to ensure that there aren't any unpleasant surprises and unplanned expenses during the execution of your basement remodeling project. Finishing a basement cost estimator will help you plan your home improvement project better.

There are technical differences between basement remodeling, basement renovations, and finishing a basement. While remodeling changes the look or function (or both) of a space, renovating is more like restoring it to its best version by keeping the structural elements intact. Finishing a basement refers to taking it from bare concrete to walls, ceilings, and floors.

Since finishing a basement is all about creating a livable space in an otherwise unused and uninhabitable basement, you'll have to complete the following tasks:

  • Basement inspection
  • Repairing any damaged foundation or pouring new concrete foundation
  • Installing basement flooring and ceiling
  • Adding framing in walls
  • Adding insulation
  • Installing drywall
  • Electrical work to fix basement lighting and to add outlets
  • Camouflaging ductwork, exposed electric wiring, pipes, and vents
  • Ensuring an emergency exit such as an egress window
  • Adding proper plumbing for bathroom and kitchen
  • Installing an HVAC system

Remodeling or updating an already finished basement may include knocking down walls, adding rooms, or adding a basement kitchen or a bathroom.

Needless to say, finishing a basement is more expensive (25% to 30% costlier) than a typical basement remodel.

However, if you're making major changes such as changing the basement layout, taking down or building walls, moving plumbing, or upgrading the heating and cooling system, the cost difference may not be much.

Whether to make your basement renovation a DIY project or not depends on your skill and experience level. Keep in mind that you'll need the right tools and equipment to remodel basement. Hiring a pro is a good idea for larger projects such as a bathroom renovation or any remodel that involves plumbing or electrical work.

A licensed plumber will generally charge you $80 to $130 per hour while an electrician will charge $50 to $100 per hour to remodel basement.

Hiring an interior designer will cost you between $2,000 to $13,000. They'll help you with the basement layout and practical design plans. What's more, they'll guide you with materials and upgrades to fit your basement remodel budget, lifestyle, and home design.

Basement conversion or basement remodeling, if done right, can make your house more marketable - apart from adding more living space to your floor plan. An extra bedroom, an exercise area, or a furnished media room will not only appeal to potential home buyers but will also make your life more convenient. Keep in mind that an unfinished basement may rightly come across as wasted space.

A finished basement, on the other hand, increases your home's value, offering a great return on investment (ROI). All you have to do is decide what kind of space will complement your family's lifestyle, and if it will fit into your remodeling budget. Planning to remodel basement is definitely a wise decision.

Experts believe that remodeling a basement increases your home's value by almost 70% of the investment you put into it. Having said that, it's important to keep the quality of your basement consistent with the rest of your home for the best ROI. That is to say, you don't want to use a high-end granite countertop in your basement and have a laminate countertop upstairs.

Before you begin the basement renovation, you need to prepare the space. Here are a few things you can ensure:

  • That the basement is clean and clear of any stored stuff.
  • There are no leaks and the area is dry and free of moisture.
  • You are familiar with the local building codes pertaining to basements.
  • Your home's foundation is not decaying, sagging, or deteriorating.

You must plan your basement remodeling project well in advance. Its success depends on having a plan and sticking to it.

Here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:

  • Keep a practical basement design plan ready with all the inclusions you want.
  • Make sure the layout is in accordance with the local building codes.
  • Set a realistic budget with some leeway for surprise costs. Experts advise adding an extra 20% to your existing budget for basement renovations or remodeling.
  • Make use of a reliable cost to finish a basement calculator.
  • Be prepared for potential price fluctuations in the material cost and longer delivery time during the pandemic.
  • Work with expert and licensed basement contractors. A well-put-together basement is an important consideration for potential home buyers. A professional finish will help you get the best house price.
  • Get the required building permits and inspections done.
  • Contact at least three remodeling contractors or companies and zero in on the best price estimate and the best workers for your basement finishing project.
  • Be sure to get a warranty or guarantee from your remodeling contractor.
  • Get a written contract stating the complete schedule, deadlines for milestones, and payment details of your basement project.

How much return on investment can I expect for a basement remodel?

According to experts, you can expect a 50% to 70% return on your investment for most remodels.

What's the cheapest way to remodel a basement?

To save money, you can complete a few projects such as demolition, cleanup, and painting yourself instead of hiring professionals. Also, if you have a tight budget, you can opt for low-cost materials and finishes.

What is the average basement demolition cost?

For a 600-square-foot basement, the cost to remove the old walls and flooring runs from $1,900 to $8,700, and for a 1,200-square-foot basement, the cost is from $3,400 to $11,900 or more. You may expect to pay an extra $3 to $11 per square foot for a thorough demolition of the existing walls, stripping back to the framing, and tearing up the current flooring. The project charges may vary depending on the scope of the remodeling and the construction team's ease of access.

Which flooring is best for basements?

For the best type of basement flooring, you can choose vinyl flooring (both vinyl plank and vinyl tile). This flooring material can be made to mimic hardwood floors with the added advantage of being waterproof.

You may consider installing steel floor joists and cross-bridging to protect the floor from moisture issues. Whether you use vinyl or laminate flooring, it's best to install it as a floating floor. This will allow for any changes and shifting in the concrete caused by moisture and temperature fluctuations.

How much does basement flooring cost?

The average price of basement flooring ranges between $1,500 and $4,500 - depending on the size and type of basement flooring. For example, the average cost of 500 square feet of basement flooring comes to $3,000.

For hardwood basement flooring, you can expect to pay up to $22 per square foot and for laminate or carpet flooring anything between $3 and $11 per square foot.

When it comes to basement flooring, it's important to install moisture barriers to protect it from damage.

Keep in mind that it costs around $2 per square foot to score and polish the concrete floor of an existing basement. And, $3 or more to paint the floor with epoxy.

Do you require a subfloor before finishing a basement?

A floor covering such as hardwood, engineered wood, linoleum, or tiles will need subfloor installation. The cost can run to $2 per square foot for plywood and $3 to $4 per square foot for wood flooring joists.

How much does it cost to gut and renovate a basement?

The average cost to finish a basement ranges from $6,500 to $18,500 while basement remodeling cost ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the size, type, and installation costs.

What's the first step for finishing a basement?

You can begin finishing a basement by installing insulation, followed by framing the walls, adding the utilities, mounting the drywall, and completing the paint job.

What's the cost of waterproofing a finished basement?

Water leaks can lead to mold growth, foundation cracks, and insect infestation. And most importantly, serious health issues. That's why it's crucial to waterproof the basement walls and floors.

Fixing basement leaks cost about $1,500 to 15,000 - depending on the scope of the renovation work. Basement insulation costs anywhere between $1,400 and $6,000, based on the basement size and type of insulation. You'll also have to factor in labor costs of $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot.

Why do you need to waterproof the basement?

A basement may be susceptible to damp conditions and mold growth. A basement space that's not waterproof may lead to cracks, insulation issues, ventilation problems, excessive moisture, and poor drainage.

Here are some expenses you may have to deal with:

  • Installing a window well cover to prevent cracks around windows: $30 to $85.
  • Window caulking: $1 to $3.80 per square foot.
  • Foundation repairs: $500 to $15,000.
  • Tube pipe foam insulation to prevent condensation: $1.50 to $3.80 per six-foot piece.
  • Installing a bathroom vent and water pipes: $50 to $100.
  • Installing a bathroom vent and water pipes: $50 to $100.
  • Adding a dehumidifier: $250.
  • Installing a drain tile system to drain water away from the foundation: $2,500 to $5,000.
  • Adding a sump pump to prevent flooding: $480 to $790

Is adding a bathroom in the basement a good idea?

A bathroom in the basement adds to your convenience - making the space more livable. It increases your home's overall market value as it can be a good selling point for potential home buyers. Experts believe that a basement bathroom can add between 10% and 20% to the total value of your home.

What's the average basement ceiling cost?

While the cost of ceiling installation can vary from case to case, the national average is between $1 and $6 per square foot.

  • Tongue and groove wood or tile panel/plate ceiling cost: $2.59 to $4.90 per square foot.
  • Popcorn ceiling cost: $0.34 to $0.70 per square foot - depending on the coverage.
  • Textured ceiling cost: $0.33 to $0.90 per square foot, depending on the desired appearance.
  • Drop ceiling cost: $22 to $26 per square foot for a ceiling suspension system with lath.

How much does a basement HVAC system cost, on average?

You can expect to pay $5,000 to $11,000 for an HVAC system in the basement. Keep in mind that new ductwork may cost you an additional $2,000 to $5,000. You may consider installing a ductless mini-split for $660 and $4,500. Here are some more HVAC options for you:

  • Radiant heating: $7 to $17 per square foot.
  • Prefabricated electric fireplace: $280 to $1,100.
  • Vented gas fireplace: $1,600 to $4,200. Plus, $130 for installation.
  • Wood-burning stoves: $500 to $4,000. Plus, the installation cost of $845 to $3,050.

Should one use a basement finishing system?

The refinishing kits for basements may cost about $30,000. That is to say, these prefabricated designer units may cost anywhere from $50 to $70 per square foot. Generally, they include all the materials you might need to finish the space - including framing, drywall that repels moisture, insulation, floor joists, and ceiling joists. Some may even have flooring and windows. The good thing is that the wall panels are lockable and detachable. So, the installation is quite easy.

We answer every question you may have. This feature equips you with everything you need to know about home renovations

Now you are ready to start your home renovation project

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