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Quick Answer: How To Finish Your Basement

How do you finish a basement step by step?

How to Finish a Basement Wall Step 1: Install Insulation. While there are plenty of insulation options available, polystyrene foam insulation is one of the simplest for DIY installation without impacting functionality. Step 2: Frame the Walls. Step 3: Install Utilities. Step 4: Mount Drywall. Step 5: Paint.

How much does it cost to finish a basement yourself?

On average, the cost for a basic finish job falls anywhere from $6,500 for a DIY job to $20,000 if you are hiring a carpenter to assist, but costs can go much higher for larger spaces. Note that these average costs do not include major plumbing or electrical work.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement wall?

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.

Does finishing a basement add value?

“When done well, a finished basement will add significant value to your property. On average, a finished basement will give you a 75% return on your investment. In areas where extra living space is in great demand, this will be even higher,” says Katie DeWeese, an interior design, remodel and redesign specialist.

How do you make an unfinished basement into a finished basement?

The best way to make your unfinished basement feel complete is by adding accents and decor just as you would to any other room in your house. In addition to the basement ideas above, like hanging string lights and adding area rugs, bring in other details that will add warmth, texture, and ambiance.

Should I Drylock basement walls before finishing?

Before using Drylok, it is vitally important that you prep your walls by removing any failing paint. If you have unpainted cinderblock, you should be good to go. Our walls were covered in multiple layers of old paint, which was chipping and peeling off in most places.

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 do I renovate my basement on a budget?

Here are nine project ideas that will make your basement livable on a budget: Focus on the ceiling, floor and walls. Improve part of the basement. Paint the ceiling and walls. Make room for storage. Light up the space. Create a space for crafts and activities. Add easy-to-install flooring. Paint or stain the floor.

Is drywall good for basement?

Basements are naturally damp, humid places. That’s why natural materials that compose drywall make it an unsuitable choice for basement walls. At Total Basement Finishing, our waterproofed basement wall panels are designed for humid and damp environments, making them a superior basement wall option over drywall.

Can you partially finish a basement?

A partially finished basement is also called as a half-finished basement. It is mostly used by children and teenagers. It can be used as a work area for the entire family. You may also be able to find showers and toilets in this type of basement.

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.

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.

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.

How much will my taxes increase if I finish my basement?

Yes, it will, since the overall value of your property also increases when you finish your basement. The value can increase by up to 70 percent of your remodeling costs which makes up for a significant increase overall.

Is it difficult to finish a basement?

Some basements are natural candidates for finishing. Others will require structural work before walls and plumbing can be installed. If the structure is old or poorly built, there may be issues with the foundation, ceiling height, electrical, plumbing, or other fundamental features.

What can I use instead of drywall in my basement?

24 Types of Drywall Alternatives For Your Wall, Basement, Ceiling, Shed Wood Planks. Plastic Panels. Plywood. Veneer Plaster. Pegboard. Lath and Plaster. Wahoo Walls. Textured Wall Panels.

Do you need a moisture barrier in basement walls?

Before framing the walls of your basement, install a moisture barrier to prevent water and moisture from entering the wall cavity. But if you use fiberglass insulation batts, then a moisture barrier will prevent water and moisture from entering your walls and creating mold and mildew.

How can I make my concrete basement walls look better?

If your concrete-block basement walls are dry and free of efflorescence or mold, you can seal them with a masonry sealer or all-purpose water-base primer-sealer and paint with a high-quality latex paint. Paint is an easy way to make the basement feel warmer, brighter, and more welcoming.

Is Drylok bad for basement walls?

DO NOT PAINT YOUR WALLS, even with Drylok or waterproofing paint. Also, do not attach insulation directly to the foundation walls. It behaves as a moisture trap and can also hide structural problems and cracks in the foundation.