How much does it cost to remodel a basement?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

If you have a finished or partially finished basement in your home that does not meet your needs, a remodel can help. Basement remodels transform a basic finished basement into living areas that may include living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, home offices, or other spaces. Remodeling your basement creates more living space in your home without the cost of an addition.

There is a wide range of costs for remodeling a basement. The national average cost range to remodel a basement is $27,000 to $81,000. Most homeowners pay $50,000 for a complete remodel of a previously finished 900 sq.ft. basement with a living room and home office. This project’s low cost is $25,000 for a partial remodel of a finished portion of a basement, including upgrading the flooring, installing new lights, and finishing the walls. The high cost is $100,000 for a complete remodel of a 1,200 sq.ft. partially finished basement, including a theater room and bathroom with flooring and lighting upgrades.

Cost to Remodel a Basement

Basement Finishing vs Remodeling

Basement finishing and remodeling sound similar but are different projects. If your basement is currently in its original condition, meaning the walls and floors are concrete but the wiring and plumbing are exposed, your basement is unfinished. The basement should be waterproofed and given surface finishing. This means a basement “finishing system” or drywalling the walls and laying flooring. Finishing usually means turning the space into a waterproof and usable area without a real purpose. It can be a bonus room, storage room, or rumpus room for kids, but it has no single purpose.

A basement remodel gives that space purpose. It may divide it into different rooms, creating bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, exercise rooms, and home offices. Or, it may simply complete the space for a single purpose, such as an entertainment room or home gym. Below are the average cost ranges for finishing and remodeling an average basement of 900 sq.ft.

Basement Renovation Cost by Type

Basement remodels come in several forms. Partial remodels leave most things in place without adding rooms or other areas. They mostly update surfaces and keep the area intact. Full remodels transform the space and carve it into different rooms, adding built-ins, and otherwise completely changing how the room looks and feels.

A basement conversion is different. This is often what happens when you take a finished or previously remodeled space and give it a new purpose, such as turning a finished storage room into a finished home gym or a basement living room into a basement theater room. All three types have a different range of costs to consider. Below are the costs typically associated with remodeling a 900 sq.ft. basement.

Partial Basement Remodel

Partial basement remodels cost between $10,000 and $30,000. Partial remodels come in many forms. It may mean you only remodel a small area of a previously finished basement and leave the rest alone. Or, it may mean upgrading the surfaces on an already remodeled room, such as upgrading to hardwood floors and repainting the walls. Some partial updates are small and may have much lower costs, but these are not considered “remodels.” Partial remodels are less invasive than full remodels but still have a big impact on the room’s look and function.

Basement Conversion

The cost of a basement conversion ranges from $10,000 to $100,000. There are many ways to create a basement conversion and many levels of work. This accounts for the wide range of costs associated with a conversion. Conversions take previously finished or remodeled spaces and give them a new use. You are essentially converting an area from one function to another. This can be a simple or invasive project, depending on what the area previously looked like and was used for and your final goals.

Full Basement Renovation

Full basement renovations or remodels cost $27,000 to $81,000. This remodel touches every part of the basement. It usually includes walls, ceilings, floors, lights, plumbing, and other utilities. Full renovations end with a basement with one or more rooms with dedicated purposes. For example, you may have a full bar, living room with a built-in entertainment center, and storage areas. Full renovations also frequently divide up the basement into separate rooms. This allows you to get more living space out of the area.

Basement Remodel Cost per Square Foot

The cost of a basement remodel is between $30 and $90 per square foot. This depends on several factors, including the remodel type, material quality, and room condition. Most remodels begin with a finished basement, but sometimes, your basement may need more work before it can be used as a living space. These remodels cost more than those that are completely finished and need only surface updates.

Small Basement Remodel

Not all homes have basements, and those that do may not have basements that extend the entire length of the first floor. While most homes have basements between 800 and 1,000 sq.ft., a small basement is considered under 650 sq.ft. A small basement remodel costs between $15,000 and $58,500, depending on the size and scale.

Basement Remodel Cost by Project

Many things can be done during a basement remodel. While most remodels start with a finished basement, sometimes there are other things that you may want to tackle as well, such as expanding the basement, adding a separate space, or lowering the floor for more headroom. Not all the following projects are needed in every remodel. Some are done in rare cases, while others are more common. All costs are based on the average remodel and size, meaning your costs differ if you choose other materials or have a smaller or larger basement size.

Paint a Basement

Most people painting their basement during a remodel spend between $500 and $3,600. They typically focus on the walls, but some ceilings and floors may also be painted. Not all ceiling materials can be painted, and you must choose a specific concrete paint when painting a concrete floor.

Cost to Paint Basement Walls

The average cost to paint basement walls is $500 to $3,200. Costs vary depending on the number of walls, height, room size, and how many coats of paint are needed. Basements broken into more rooms have higher costs than those that are one single room. You may need more coats of paint when going from a much darker color to a lighter one or vice versa, leading 9 to higher costs. Because basements tend to be dark, the recommendation is to use semi-gloss paint and a lighter color to brighten the space.

Cost to Paint a Basement Ceiling

The cost to paint a basement ceiling averages $900 to $1,200. These costs assume the ceiling is drywall and you are painting the entire ceiling. If the basement is broken into smaller rooms, you may not need to paint the ceilings in the entire space. Also, many ceiling systems for basements are not designed for paint, including those made with PET felt and other acoustic materials. If you have an exposed ceiling, it may be painted, but this varies and may impact the final costs.

Cost to Paint a Basement Floor

The cost to paint a basement floor ranges from $1,800 to $3,600. If you have a concrete floor in your basement and want to paint it, use thin epoxy paint. This is cheaper than other basement or concrete floor finishing systems. However, it is more difficult to spread than traditional paints. Traditional latex paints and those used on walls do not work on concrete floors. Painting some of the floor and having other flooring types impacts costs.

A Drop Ceiling in a Basement

The cost to install a drop ceiling in a basement is $950 to $2,450. Drop ceilings can be good options for basements for several reasons. Many basements have plumbing, electrical wires, and HVAC ducts running across the ceiling. Encapsulating these in a traditional drywall ceiling makes them difficult to access for maintenance and repairs. With a drop ceiling, it is much easier to reach these utilities without damaging the ceiling. Many drop ceilings can also be made of acoustic materials or have inlaid lighting. This gives you many options for how your basement functions.

Replace a Basement Floor

The cost to replace your basement flooring ranges from $950 to $31,000, depending on the current flooring and what you plan on installing. Once they have been finished and waterproofed, you can install flooring. This includes polishing your concrete, carpeting the area, and installing a heated floor.

Basement Carpet Cost

The cost of basement carpeting is $950 to $3,000. If your basement has been waterproofed, carpet makes an excellent floor option. Carpet is warm underfoot and can be more comfortable on the concrete than on some harder floors. Depending on the carpet you choose, you may want to increase your carpet’s thickness pad. This makes carpets extremely soft and comfortable, even on concrete. Many carpets hold up well long-term, so look for options that work with your traffic level and lifestyle.

Cost to Tile a Basement Floor

The cost to tile a basement floor averages $1,000 to $10,000. Many tile types work on a basement floor, and each has costs and attributes to consider. Ceramic floor tiles and vinyl floor tiles are among the cheapest options, while porcelain is one of the lowest maintenance choices. Stone tile floors tend to be the most costly and hardest to maintain. Ensure the floor is fully waterproofed before installing tile over it.

Polished Concrete Basement Floor Cost

The cost of a polished concrete basement floor ranges from $3,700 to $10,800. Polished concrete can be a good look for modern homes. It is also a good option for dark basements because the polished floors reflect light. Polishing is done by grinding down the concrete’s surface. Finer and finer grits are used to bring the surface up to a high gloss. This is a very labor-intensive process, which explains the higher costs.

Epoxy Basement Floor Cost

The cost of an epoxy basement floor is $8,000 to $13,500. Epoxy makes your floor durable and long-lasting. However, epoxy floors can be difficult and time-consuming to install, making them one of the more costly options. For this reason, many people choose not to epoxy the entire basement. You may choose to epoxy areas with high traffic or areas that could be easily damaged, such as an exercise room. It is also a good choice for basements that have ongoing moisture issues on the floor.

Heated Basement Floor Cost

The cost of a heated basement floor averages $11,200 to $31,000. There are two methods for installing a heated floor in the basement. The most common option is done when your basement is installed. It involves laying pipes that carry heated water beneath your floor and then pouring the concrete over it. You can have this done on existing concrete floors, but it raises them considerably. You can also have your existing floor removed and a heated floor put in. Another option is to lay down electric mats on your concrete and put another flooring on top. This option can be more expensive to run long term but may be less invasive to install.

Level a Basement Floor

The cost to level a basement floor ranges from $1,200 to $15,000. Most floors are leveled during the finishing stage, but it is not uncommon for floors to need leveling later. In addition, you may discover uneven areas that were undetectable before if you previously had carpet or a soft flooring option and are switching to something hard. Leveling is done in several ways. Depending on the cause and how uneven the floors are, they can be leveled from within or from underneath. The more invasive the procedure, the higher the final cost.

Basement Lighting

Lighting is important in the basement because the space does not typically get adequate light. Most homeowners spend between $1,500 and $3,000 on wiring and lighting for the basement. Because the space is often dark, it is common to mix different lighting types. This may mean mixing recessed lights with a pendant light over a bar or having separate lights for stairs and individual rooms or areas. The larger your room and the more functional spaces you add, the more lights you need.

Basement Bar Pendant Lights

The cost of installing a bar pendant light in your basement averages $200 to $400. Pendant lights are a great addition to many bar areas because this space is dark and needs task lighting. Ensure your pendants have enough clearance overhead if you plan on using the bar for seating. This is difficult in basements where the ceilings are fairly low. You may want to consider sconces behind the bar for task lighting independent of the ceiling height.

Basement Stair Lighting

The cost of installing basement stair lighting is $250 to $500. There are many different ways to install stair lights. You can install lights at the top and bottom of the stairwell. You can also install lights on the stairs or the wall beside the stairs. When using the basement for things like a home theater, illuminating the steps can make the area safe without casting much light into the rest of the room. If the space is going to be a family room or home office, having lights in the ceiling of the stairwell is often the most cost-effective solution.

Basement Track Lighting

The cost of installing track lighting in the basement ranges from $500 to $1,000. Track lights are a good option for retrofitting an existing ceiling. They allow you to position the lights in different directions so that they can be used for task, accent, or ambient lighting. Many basements have ceilings that drop lower to accommodate utilities, which can make it difficult to have light fixtures extending down. If your ceilings are high enough, this can be a good option for functional basement lighting.

Basement Wall Sconces

The cost to install basement wall sconces is $550 to $900. Sconces are a good option for adding task and accent lighting. They are not dependent on the ceiling height, so they can be used no matter how low your ceilings are. They can be installed behind bars, along stairways, beside seating areas, or anywhere else that needs extra light. Sconces come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. You can find single or double lights to fit your lighting needs.

Basement Recessed Lighting

The cost to install recessed lighting in a basement averages $800 to $2,000. Recessed lighting is a popular option for basements because it does not impact the room height. The lights are installed in the space between the ceiling and the floor above. Depending on what is above the ceiling, you may be restricted in the can type. Once installed, the lights function the same way and provide plenty of ambient light. Recessed lights come in several finishes and styles, so you can easily find ones to complement your space.

Basement Mold Removal

The cost to remove mold from a basement is between $1,500 and $4,000. Mold is a common problem in many basements. Even if you waterproofed your basement or dealt with moisture issues before, problems can still arise. It is not uncommon for a remodel to be triggered because of a leak, flood, or other event resulting in mold growth. Costs to remove the mold vary depending on the mold type, how invasive it is, and where it is. Removing mold can also mean needing to replace or repair other areas.

Basement Storage Addition

Most people adding storage to their basement spend between $1,500 and $10,000. There are many different ways to add storage to the space, including setting up a custom room with rack shelving just for storage. It can also mean setting up built-in cabinets, closets, under stair storage, and other custom options. When using the basement for a bedroom, closet space must be added. Otherwise, storage options can be added that meet your particular needs.

Basement Shelving

The cost to install basement shelving ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. Basement shelving takes on many forms and appearances. You can have custom built-in shelves surrounding an entertainment center. You can also have simple metal shelving installed to hold items for storage. Because basements can be used for so many purposes, there are different options for shelves. Your costs are determined by the shelf type, how many you need, and their location.

Basement Tool Storage

The average cost of basement tool storage is $1,800 to $2,500. Tool storage for basements is similar to garages. These are cabinets - stock or custom - designed to hold tools. This can include shallow drawers, cabinets with hooks and shelves, and small cubbies or bins for nails, screws, and fasteners. These cabinets come in a wide range of sizes. Many have workbenches, making them very convenient for use.

Under Basement Stairs Storage

The cost to create under basement stair storage averages $2,000 to $5,000. Placing your storage beneath the stairs is a great use of space in the basement. This is particularly true if you plan on using the rest of the basement as a living space but still want some accessible storage. The storage amount and type you install in this area drives costs. The more finished you make the space, the higher its final price. Likewise, your costs are higher if you install doors to hide the area from view.

Storage Racks for a Basement

The cost of built-in storage racks for the basement ranges from $2,500 to $4,000. Storage racks are usually large metal racks bolted to the floor or fastened to the walls. They help organize and store large amounts of items. These racks may reach from floor to ceiling and have racks of varying heights. This provides a lot of flexibility in how you use the space. Most homeowners investing in these shelves usually purchase enough to cover between one and two walls completely for the best fit to the room.

Basement Storage Closets

The cost of adding a closet to your basement is between $2,500 and $5,000. Closets can be used for numerous things, such as storage of everyday items. You can also add a closet to a basement bedroom to make it an actual bedroom and not simply a room with a bed in it. Closets come in many shapes and sizes. They often include shelving and hanging rails or racks. The more you add, the higher the price.

Basement Pantry Storage

The cost of adding a pantry to a basement averages $2,500 to $10,000. Pantries are usually used for holding non-perishable foods and other household items. It is common for people to purchase items in bulk and store them until needed to save money on everyday items. The pantry is the ideal space to hold these needed items. Pantries come in a wide range of sizes and types. They can be small cabinets you access by opening a door and reaching in or large rooms lined with custom shelving and secured by a solid door. Costs vary depending on the pantry size and style.

Basement Storage Cabinets

The cost of adding storage cabinets to a basement ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. Storage cabinets can be used in basements in several ways. You can purchase stock cabinets to line multiple walls for holding tools and household items. You can also have custom cabinets built into the walls for holding games, electronics, and other entertainment items. There can be a wide range of costs associated with cabinet installations. Cabinet material, size, location, and the number of cabinets being installed impact the final cost.

Basement Window

Most homeowners spend between $2,500 and $5,300 on windows for their basements. Many basements only have small windows that do not let in much light. For that reason, it is common for remodels to tackle these windows to get more natural light. This can mean creating egress windows in a basement bedroom, enlarging windows, converting windows to doors, or replacing the windows. Each project has costs to consider, and it is common to mix and match in larger spaces.

Cost to Fill in a Basement Window

The average cost to fill in a basement window is $300 to $500. When setting up a space that does not need windows, such as a home theater or storage area, filling in the window may be a good idea. Doing so can make that area more energy-efficient and secure. It can also help keep light out of areas where you do not want it. Filling in the window is generally a quick process. The materials used vary depending on your home, and you may need to have additional siding or other material to cover the space.

Glass Block Basement Windows Cost

The cost of installing a glass block in your basement windows averages $400 to $600. Glass blocks make an attractive window. They allow light to enter without being a security risk. They can also be a good choice for privacy issues. This window cannot be used for egress. When installing this in a basement bedroom, you need another window or door installed that can be used for egress.

Basement Window Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a basement window ranges from $1,000 to $8,000. Many windows can be used in basements. While well windows are common, depending on your basement foundation and wall height, you can have windows of many shapes and sizes. You can also have windows of varying materials, function, and style, creating a wide range of costs and options for your window replacement. Exact costs depend on the new window type, location, and existing window.

Basement Egress Window Installation Cost

The average cost to install an egress window in your basement is $2,500 to $5,300. An egress window is one that opens and is large enough to allow a person to fit through. Egress windows are necessary for evacuation from a fire or other emergency. They are required in most basement bedrooms and some other areas, depending on if the basement has an egress door. Costs vary depending on whether this is a new window or not. They also vary depending on whether you need to enlarge the opening to allow an occupant through.

Cost to Enlarge a Basement Window

The cost to enlarge a basement window ranges from $4,000 to $7,000. You cannot enlarge all basement windows, however. If you have a window well, it can be difficult to clear enough earth from the foundation to expand the window. However, if your windows are placed high enough above the landscaping, it may be possible to enlarge them. Costs are determined by the foundation material and how much larger the window is. Cinder block foundations are easier to cut through than concrete, while larger windows take more time and effort.

Convert a Basement Window to a Door Cost

The cost to convert a basement window to a door is $6,000 to $8,000. Converting an existing window to a door is a great option for creating easier egress. Depending on the window location, you may need to do serious excavation from the foundation to facilitate the process. When converting, you are limited to where the door can be located. This can cause costs to be higher than installing a door because you may not be able to choose the best location. Windows that are fairly high up and do not require as much excavation are the least expensive to convert.

Install a Walkout Basement Door

The cost to install a walkout basement door ranges from $2,500 to $10,000. Walkout doors make your basement more usable. They can be used as a separate entrance for home offices or basement bedrooms so that visitors do not need to enter through the home. Depending on how high your walls are and where you put the door, you may have to excavate first. This makes the wall more accessible to reach. It is common to add stairs leading down to the door, increasing costs.

Build a Bar in a Basement

The average cost to build a bar in a basement is $6,000 to $10,000, including the cost of the cabinets, countertop, sink, faucet, and installation. The larger the bar, the higher your costs. Your costs may be higher when opting for luxury materials like exotic stone countertops or hardwood cabinets. Having a bar added to your basement makes entertaining there easier. You can add seating, small appliances like a refrigerator, and other amenities, depending on the layout.

Add a Bedroom to a Basement

The cost to add a bedroom to a basement averages $20,000 to $30,000. To create a bedroom in a basement that meets building codes, you must do several things. First, a room must be created, meaning framing and creating walls, and the walls and floors finished. You need lighting, a closet, and an egress - a window or door leading 9 directly outside. There should also be smoke detectors nearby the bedrooms, and the alarm should be clearly audible through doors in case of emergency. These add up to a major remodeling project.

Add a Bathroom to a Basement

The cost to add a bathroom to a basement ranges from $20,000 to $30,000. Adding a bathroom to a basement presents challenges. Plumbing lines must be run to the space. To install a toilet, a trench is usually required for the waste pipe. Otherwise, a toilet can be vented into the wall, and a pressure-assisted flush drives waste up to street level. In addition, completely waterproofing the space, adding fixtures, lights, and finishing the room can be more expensive because you are working on top of concrete in a space with no natural lighting.

Add a Kitchen to a Basement

The cost to add a kitchen to a basement averages $30,000 to $60,000. Kitchens need plumbing and electricity run to the area. In some homes, you may also want to run a gas line to the area. You also need finished walls, floors, cabinets, appliances, and countertops to complete the space. The larger the kitchen and the more things you add to it, the higher the costs. These costs assume a full-sized kitchen of at least 100 sq.ft. You can install a small galley kitchen in the basement for less.

Benching Basement

The average cost to bench a basement is $31,500 to $63,000. Benching is a method of raising the room height. You create a “bench” around the perimeter of the basement, and this bench is what your walls extend up from. The floor sits inside of this bench, essentially lowering it. This makes the room taller and more spacious.

Lower a Basement Floor

The cost to lower a basement floor ranges from $31,500 to $63,000. Lowering your basement floor is one method of adding additional height to the room. There are different ways to do this, including benching. In most cases, the existing floor must be jackhammered up. The earth beneath is excavated to the new depth, and the new basement floor is poured.

Expand a Basement

The average cost to extend or expand a basement is $40,000 to $120,000. The most common reason people expand their basements is to extend it beneath an addition. If you have added to your home, you have changed the footprint. For this reason, you may want to extend the basement so that it runs beneath the entire home rather than having a slab foundation only beneath the new addition. Expanding means serious excavation work and removal of at least one wall of the current foundation. This means supporting the home while the new basement and foundation are poured. The larger the expansion, the higher the total costs.

Basement Conversion Cost by Type

If you are not currently using your basement for anything, you may want to convert it into a separate usable space. This can mean completely changing the look and function, and costs vary depending on the conversion type. If this will be a living area, you may have higher costs than turning it into a gym or bunker. The more finish work required, the higher the final costs.

Convert a Basement to a Gym

The cost to convert a basement to a gym averages between $2,500 to $5,000. Basement-to-gym conversions are common and easy to do. They are generally cooler than above-ground floors, making them a great place to work out in. Rubber gym floors are inexpensive and can be installed DIY, but it is advised to have slightly more expensive gym flooring installed by a professional. While good lights and mirrors are recommended in home gyms, they are not always necessary. The conversion - before the cost of the gym equipment - is easy and inexpensive. Because there are many types and ways to make a home gym, expensive equipment is not necessary for every setup.

Turn a Basement into a Man Cave

The cost to turn a basement into a man cave is between $5,000 and $20,000. The cost range is because of how many levels of finishing this space can have. For some people, the final appearance is not a big factor if the room is waterproofed and has comfortable seating and amenities. For others, the room’s appearance is as important as their comfort in it. This means some people may waterproof and install a simple vinyl floor and wall covering, while others install hardwood with feature walls, fireplaces, and built-in entertainment centers. The way the space is used dictates much of the costs.

Basement Laundry Room Remodel

The cost to create a finished laundry room in your basement averages $10,000 to $15,000. Many basements are ideal for creating laundry rooms. The plumbing lines necessary are usually nearby, keeping utility costs down for the project. Waterproofing the basement also means that the finished area should be ideal for a laundry setup. Costs range depending on whether you install shelves or cabinets, use a countertop or sink, and the flooring type and wall finish.

Turn a Basement into a Playroom

The cost to turn a basement into a playroom ranges from $15,000 to $25,000. Playrooms are another area that can have a wide range of finish levels and features. Some people choose to waterproof and put down inexpensive foam flooring and basic wall finishes. Others choose to install carpet, cabinets, built-in shelves, and chalkboard walls. The level of finish you put into the space dictates a large part of the cost. Good lighting, waterproofing, and ventilation are the biggest concerns when creating a playroom.

Turn a Basement into an Office

The cost to convert a basement into a home office is $15,000 to $25,000. Basement conversions to home offices also take on many looks. You can set up a basic home office in the basement with vinyl floors and drywall. You can also install hardwood or carpet with built-in shelves and an ethernet connection. If you plan on using your home office for video calls, you also need a good light source and backdrop. If you may have visitors to your home office, you may want to think about how people will enter. These considerations impact your final cost.

Turning Your Basement into an Art Studio

The cost range to turn your basement into an art studio ranges from $15,000 to $30,000. The biggest consideration for turning any space into an art studio is light. Basements do not typically have good natural light, so adding light is a must. It is also common to add a sink and faucet to the area and good storage and organization. Flooring and wall coverings are easy to clean or left bare concrete if you do not mind having some of your medium showing on the space when you are through. If the basement is not currently finished, take waterproofing steps to make sure it is dry enough to not damage your art or materials.

Basement Wine Cellar

The average cost to convert a basement into a wine cellar is $15,000 to $60,000. Basements are one of the most ideal places for installing a wine cellar. Because wine cellars need a certain temperature and humidity, most basements meet these needs without much modification. Wine cellars come in many sizes, styles, and configurations. The larger the cellar and the more amenities you add, the higher your final costs. Simple cellars can be easily created in most basements without much invasive work. Very large and elaborate cellars can be much more expensive, depending on the final materials.

Converting a Basement into a Bedroom

The cost to convert a basement into a bedroom averages $20,000 to $30,000. Basement bedrooms often require framing, insulation, egress windows or doors, and closets. This is in addition to the finished walls, floors, lights, and other amenities. These projects can be more expensive, despite being simple in design. Your bedroom’s size and placement affect the final costs. In addition, style and finishing materials also play a role.

Converting a Basement to a Living Space

The cost to convert a basement into a finished living space ranges from $20,000 to $30,000. Finished living spaces that are not otherwise designated as bedrooms, bathrooms, apartments, or other specific areas tend to be used as family rooms or living rooms. When completely finished, they may have carpet or hardwood floors, built-in cabinets or shelves, and suitable lighting for the area. Added storage is also a frequent feature, whether it is cabinets, under stair storage, or an added closet. The room’s final size, layout, and function dictate most of the costs. The more features and amenities you add, the higher the final costs.

Turn a Basement into a Bunker

The cost of turning your basement into a bunker is $20,000 to $1,000,000. Bunkers can serve several purposes, such as a storm shelter, panic room, or secure place to ride out emergencies. They can be basic, including storage for non-perishable foods, medicine, lighting, and sleeping spaces. They can also be high-tech with security systems, cameras, and secure doors. They have a wide cost range, depending on how much you want to put into the space and its final use.

Converting a Basement into an Apartment

The cost of converting a basement into an apartment averages $60,000 to $120,000. While many basements are large enough to become apartments, they need a lot of modifications to meet building codes. This includes a separate entrance to the apartment from the rest of the home. You also need a full kitchen, bathroom, egress, and closet in the bedroom. The entire space must be waterproofed and finished. The size of the space and finish dictate your final costs.

Basement Home Theater

The cost of installing a home theater in your basement ranges from $70,000 to $90,000. Basements are an ideal place to situate your home theater. They get little natural light, so darkening the space is easier than in other areas of the home. They are also easy to insulate for sound. Home theater costs vary depending on the seating, carpeting, and audio/visual setup. Most home theaters must be fully insulated for acoustics and have professional planning for the best AV setup for the space. Your final costs include the size of the space and which amenities you add.

Convert a Basement to a Garage

The cost to convert a basement to a garage is $75,000 to $150,000, but not all basements can be converted to garages. Your location, building codes, and room type and size dictate if this is possible. Serious amounts of excavation are needed to extend driveways to the basement level. From there, the walls must be tall enough to accommodate the garage doors and car. These costs are for a basic basement-to-garage conversion. There are additional costs if you plan on finishing the garage.

Labor Cost to Remodel a Basement

Many professionals are involved in remodeling a basement. The more you do to update or upgrade, the more professionals you work with. Most conversions use a general contractor, electrician, plumber, and floor installer at a minimum. You may also have carpenters, drywall installers, interior designers, and other professionals who specialize in some of the projects done in basements. Labor costs for the most common areas include:

How to Increase Ventilation in a Basement

There are many ways to increase your basement’s ventilation. Ventilation is important to keep air flowing and remove potentially hazardous impurities in the air. One method is to add additional windows and doors that can be opened to increase natural ventilation. You can also have a wide range of ventilation systems installed, depending on your overall needs for the space and whether you want to ventilate the basement or increase ventilation in the home. The average cost to ventilate the basement is approximately $600 to $1,000.

Basement Bathroom Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel an existing basement bathroom ranges from $3,000 to $25,000. Costs are impacted by many factors, including the bathroom’s size, whether it remains this size or is expanding, what condition it is currently in, and which materials you use. The larger the bathroom, the higher the average costs. Full bathrooms also cost more to remodel than ¾ bathrooms or ½ baths. How accessible the space is and what you intend to add also impact your final costs.

Partial Basement to a Full Basement Cost

The average cost to convert a partial basement to a full basement averages $40,000 to $120,000. It is common for older homes to have partial basements. This means they may have a cellar or a foundation beneath one part of the home and a slab foundation or crawl space beneath another portion. If so, expanding to a full basement can give the home more stability and more storage or living space. Converting a partial to a full basement requires excavation and supporting the home during the excavation before pouring the new walls. This can be expensive and time-consuming, particularly for larger jobs.

Walkout Basement vs Regular Basement

Walkout basements and regular basements are different types of foundations. In a walkout, at least one portion of the basement sits at ground level at its lowest point. This means you can exit the basement through a door without needing to go up a set of steps to be on level land. Regular basements are mostly underground and have the same depth all the way around. The biggest consideration for creating a walkout basement is the landscaping and the slope of your yard. It is most common to create a basement if your home is built into a slope or a hill. The hill’s lowest part is where the basement can walk out, while the higher portions create the full basement walls. To create a walkout basement from a full basement, you must do excavation work. This costs around $60,000 or more for the conversion, depending on how much land needs to be excavated and landscaped.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

A Dehumidifier for a Basement

Basements are frequently high in humidity. This contributes to issues like mold and mildew growth. A dehumidifier can remove some of this humidity from the air. Costs range from $50 to $500 for a basement dehumidifier, based on the room size.

Basement Leak Repair

If you have water infiltrating your basement through a leak, it can be located in many places and have a lot of causes. For that reason, you have a wide range of repairs to fix it. The average cost of leak repair is $2,000 to $10,000.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. Most cities and towns require a permit for basement remodels. Several codes dictate what can be done in this area. For example, a basement must have a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet. If your basement has a ceiling height lower than this, it may not pass code. In addition, plan the cost of the building permits, around $200 to $1,500, into your budget.
• Furnishings. Most people want to furnish their basement. The cost depends largely on the room purpose. For example, a children’s playroom may require storage bins, while a family room may require new couches and chairs.
• Moisture. Most basements have some problems with moisture. For this reason, you must waterproof them before remodeling. Dehumidifiers also remove moisture from the air.
• Cold basements. Accumulating snow of more than 2 feet on the ground can contribute to a cold basement. Added insulation in the areas above your basement may help.
• Subfloor. Subfloors are not necessary because the concrete acts as one.
• Windows. Your basement windows do not need to open as long as you have an egress.
• Humidity. To help reduce humidity, invest in a dehumidifier. Opening windows increases ventilation but does not impact humidity.
• Resale. Remodeling your basement can increase your home’s value, particularly if you add additional living space.

References

• Bob Vila. “The 10 Best Colors for a Brighter Basement."
  https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/the-10-best-colors-for-a-brighter-basement-5119
• Budget Dumpster. “How to Convert Your Basement Into an Apartment."
  https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/creating-a-basement-apartment/
• CountryLiving. “13 Clever Basement Remodeling and Storage Ideas."
  ​​​https://www.countryliving.com/remodeling-renovation/expert-advice/tips/g46/basement-ideas/
• Craftsman Book Company. National Construction Estimator, 69th ed., Ed. by Richard Pray (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Electrical Estimator, Ed. by Mark C. Tyler (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Home Improvement Estimator, Ed. by Ray F. Hicks (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Painting Cost Estimator, Ed. by Dennis D. Gleason (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Plumbing & HVAC Estimator, Ed. by James A. Thomson (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Renovation & Insurance Repair Estimator, Ed. by Jonathan Russell (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Craftsman Book Company. National Repair & Remodeling Estimator, Ed. by Joshua Paxton (Carlsbad, CA, 2021).
• Elle Decor. “30 Surprisingly Stylish Basement Remodel Ideas."
  https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/room-ideas/g27763022/basement-remodel-ideas/
• FIXR Cost Guides and Cost Database.
• HGTV. “Basements and Bonus Rooms From Our Favorite TV Shows."
  https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/other-rooms/basement-remodeling-ideas-from-tv-pictures
• HGTV. “Finished Basements Add Space and Home Value."
  https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/finished-basements-add-space-and-home-value
• Homelight. “7 Key Ways to Save on the Average Cost of a Basement Remodel."
  https://www.homelight.com/blog/average-cost-of-basement-remodel/
• House Beautiful. “What a Basement Renovation Actually Costs."
  https://www.housebeautiful.com/home-remodeling/renovation/a21732703/basement-renovation-cost/
• House Logic. “How to Remodel a Dark Basement.”
  https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/basement-attic/basement-redo-brings-light-dank-dark-basement/
• International Code Council. “2012 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)."
  ​https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPMC2012/chapter-7-fire-safety-requirements
• LifeFitness. “How to Build a Home Gym in Your Basement.”
  https://www.lifefitness.com/en-us/blog/how-build-home-gym-your-basement
• Remodeling. “Basement Remodel.”
  https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/basement-remodel
• Survivopedia. “Turn Your Cellar Into A Survival Shelter In 10 Steps."
  https://www.survivopedia.com/how-to-turn-your-cellar-into-a-survival-shelter/
• This Old House. “How to Plan for a Finished Basement."
  https://www.thisoldhouse.com/basements/21017847/read-this-before-you-finish-your-basement