One of the best ways to improve the value of your home is through basement remodeling. Most basement remodels cost typically between $11,035 and $29,877. You can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $75 per square foot, depending on the materials and labor. As with any home improvement project, staying within a certain budget is a legitimate concern for homeowners.
So, if you’ve decided to remodel your basement, you might be wondering which areas of the basement should be invested in and where you may be able to save. It’s easy to splurge and go all out on basement design trends and features, but will it return your investment when you sell your home? Here’s a simple guide to help you get the most out of your dollar:
What’s the Difference Between Splurging and Saving?
Splurging doesn’t always mean overspending. When you splurge on something, it can mean that you prioritize other things. You may spend more money on things that you touch or see often. Splurging is also a way for you to indulge yourself in some luxury or anything that makes you happy. On the other hand, saving can mean that you will dial down on the cost a bit. You can use the money you’ve set aside for future home improvement projects.
Where to Splurge
Basement Flooring
Your basement should stay as dry as possible in case you want to transform it into a livable space. Moisture problems can cause mold growth and serious damage to the building components. Minimize moisture and humidity in your basement by grading out foundation soil, adding an interior or exterior drainage system, and keeping your gutters in good condition.
You may also choose moisture-resistant basement flooring options, such as ceramic or porcelain tile, luxury vinyl planks, engineered wood flooring, or laminate flooring. Dehumidifiers are also a temporary solution in reducing humidity and odor.
Ceiling Insulation
Basements are located below ground level, so footsteps on hardwood floors upstairs can be quite disruptive. This is why it is always worth it to invest in ceiling insulation or soundproofing. Basement ceilings can be insulated with fiberglass batts or closed-cell spray foam. Whether you want to turn your basement into a home office or media room, insulating the basement ceiling will help dampen the sound of loud footsteps and retain most of the heat upstairs.
Proper Lighting
There isn’t much natural lighting in basements, so you need to choose the right lighting fixtures for your space. Installing the wrong lighting will make your basement look gloomy and boring. With good lighting, your basement will instantly look and feel bigger. Set the right mood and highlight your design features with fluorescent lights, LEDs, task lighting, and focal lighting.
Media or Entertainment Room
A home theater room with a large television screen, surround sound, and cinema-style seating can be expensive but worth every penny. When planning to build a media room in your basement, you need to choose the best lighting and electronics for the best viewing experience.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi Repeater
If you want to get a good internet connection in your basement, you can install ethernet cables or Wi-Fi boosters. Your Wi-Fi modem is most probably kept upstairs, so your basement can be a dead zone. The thick walls in your basement are also the reason why the wireless signal grows weaker. Simply call an electrician or any professional to optimize Wi-Fi reception in your basement.
Where to Save
Open-Floor Concept
Instead of separate rooms, choose an open-floor concept for your basement remodeling project. This layout creates a welcoming space and gives you more flexibility with the design and planning. When there are no additional rooms in your basement, you will save money on materials like doors and drywall. You can add a simple sleeper sofa downstairs instead of an extra guest bedroom.
Basement Bar and Full Kitchen
Unless you like throwing parties regularly, you don’t need to spend too much money on a full kitchen and luxurious bar. A fully stocked bar can be expensive due to the countertops and plumbing expenses. However, installing a fridge and prefab cabinetry is a cost-effective way to make your basement more inviting and unique.
Standard Sizes
As compared to custom furniture, standard size cabinets, countertops, and other items can save you a lot of money. Your bathroom remodel is only a wonderful addition to your home, so you don’t need to go all out. From furniture to storage units, always decide if smaller items could be worth purchasing.
Ask the Basement Remodeling Professionals
Basement remodeling can be very expensive, especially if you don’t set out your priorities from the get-go. Sticking with the original plan and budget will certainly determine if the project is successful.
We hope this article helps you identify the aspects that are worth splurging on and areas where you can save. At Pittsburgh Basement Remodeling, we can help you turn your basement into your dream space without having to spend a fortune. Contact us for a free consultation!