How to Save Money on Basement Finishing

Basement finishing projects don’t need to go over your available budget. Finishing work typically involves dealing with electric and water lines, installing flooring and other materials, and adding insulation. Costs can accumulate over time depending on the extent of the project, but they don’t have to be too extraordinary if you determine what to do early on. There are plenty of materials and installations that are cost-effective, helping you avoid overspending on a project as long as you don’t need to.

Here are some ways to effectively avoid spending too much on basement finishes.

Plan the Project Before Getting Started

One of the easiest ways to avoid overspending on basement finishing is to plant the project way beforehand. While a simpler project such as converting a basement to a recreation room or bedroom can help you save money, you’ll wind up spending more if you have issues such as those related to moisture. Check for any issues such as leaking water, and contact a professional foundation contractor for assistance before beginning a basement finishing project.

Choose a Cost-Efficient Finishing Method

There are many techniques that you can select to finish your basement, and many of them are inexpensive. For instance, linoleum tile and carpeting are two economical flooring choices, but one of the cheapest ways to complete a basement floor finish is to paint it. Painting a concrete floor and decorating with a rug once it dries is a great way to save money.

Installing Insulation

Insulation is an effective means of moderating temperature, but the basement is also the most insulated area in the home, with masonry walls that measure approximately 8 inches thick. If you want to install insulation, use lumber to build frames for masonry walls and apply drywall to them.

Align Electric Wires and Water Pipes

Properly aligned pipes and wires will help save more money. They are typically located between the ceiling joists, and you should inspect the basement’s wire and pipe patterns and align them accordingly.

If you plan on installing a bathroom in the basement, try to build it directly below the bathroom above to avoid installing new water pipes, as installation of new pipes can cost a lot.

Install a Dropped Ceiling

Installing a dropped ceiling along with acoustical tiles can give you easy access to the basement’s mechanical system.

These are some of the ways you can save money on a basement finishing project, but if you want to save even more while getting the results you want, consult with a basement finishing contractor to discuss your project. With a reliable company behind your basement finish, you’ll be able to determine how much a project will cost and also develop a schedule that works for you. Good basement finishing contractors will work with you to figure out the best custom solution to meet your needs while staying within your budget.

Why not give CMH Builders a call? We’ll help to make your basement a beloved part of your home!