Perhaps you have a partially finished basement that does not look much like a living space. The floor doesn’t completely hide the concrete below, and the basement walls are covered with fake wood paneling. The light bulbs are bare, the ceiling is uneven, and the room probably has mold and moisture problems. You probably use this downstairs space to store old tools, toys, furniture, and clothes.

What if it became a new home theater, office, bedroom, or billiards room? A basement uplift can turn this space into a comfortable living space. You can say goodbye to the shag carpeting and ugly drywall. A basement remodel can bring life to this sometimes forgotten space. The project can also boost your home’s resale value.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry says that homeowners could get back almost two-thirds of the money they spent on remodeling their basements. It is just a matter of budgeting. However, your project cost will vary depending on the size of your basement, how much work the space needs, and your vision for the final product.

What Exactly Is a Finished Basement?

A basement must meet the state’s building codes to qualify as living space legally, or the ROI will be zero. Some of the universal codes you must meet include the following:

The ceiling height must be at least seven feet.

The basement must have emergency exit access. The egress should be no more than four feet, four inches, from the ground to the lower sill. It must be a minimum of 20 inches wide and open to at least 20 inches in height.

Budget-Friendly Basement Remodeling Ideas

It is never a good idea to cut corners that violate building codes with basement remodels. You will need to repair or rip out the remodel before selling. However, that does not mean you must break the bank with the most expensive estimate. There are many ways to save money on your basement remodel without compromising on the finish or quality.

Make a Detailed Basement Remodeling Plan Ahead of Time

Having a clear and detailed plan is key when working on any building or renovation project. The plan should define your budget and scope of work. Make a realistic plan of everything you need to do and create a practical budget. You should also have a contingency fund to effectively cover unexpected expenses and problems.

Have Affordable, Prefabricated Windows Installed

If your renovation requires you to add an emergency egress window, you can save money by buying one that is already made.

Test Exterior Walls for Water Damage or Moisture Before Finishing

Basements have a negative reputation for being musty, moldy, dark, and damp for a reason. Groundwater from melting snow and rain can seep into the flooring and walls. Your house may also have interior moisture sources, such as damaged plumbing.

Even if your basement seems dry and mold-free, you could run into moisture issues if you fail to test for them first. If your test detects moisture, it is best to fix the problem before finishing your walls. Do not give in to the temptation to drywall or paint over the basement cement without dealing with the issue. If you ever sell your house, the new owner can show that you hid or didn’t tell them about the problem on purpose.

Start with One Area of the Basement

When people overspend on basements, the effect may be dull. Consider finishing a smaller section and using the remaining money to add entertaining elements. You can update the look with tiling, a big-screen TV, or a wet bar. This will improve the basement’s resale value.

Avoid Too Many Customizations

Custom basements cost extra. Prefab shelves and cabinets save money without sacrificing functionality.

Other ways to keep your project within budget include:

• Avoid extensive structural changes.
• Skip high-end finishes in favor of less expensive materials.
• Hire professionals who specialize in renovating basements, offering the best deal.
• Decorate using unique items you find at bargain stores.
• Clean the musty basement air.
• Choose a budget ceiling that will make it easy to access sewer and water pipes and electric lines for the lights and electric equipment.

Basement Remodeling in Idaho Falls, ID

Remodel Professionals of Idaho specialize in residential and commercial renovations, including bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and basement remodeling. We also specialize in home renovation and commercial construction projects in Bonneville County, Idaho.

We are passionate about providing our customers with the best product and experience possible to transform their properties. When you hire us, you can expect friendly customer service, quality services and materials, a free estimate, competitive pricing, and on-time service. Our company and contractors are insured and licensed.

Whether you want a finished basement or a new company headquarters, we are the best contractors to work with in the Bonneville County area. Contact us at (208) 314-9839 to discuss your renovation requirements.