Basement Remodeling

Finishing your Basement is the easiest way to add square footage and increase your home value!

Layout changes & wall removals
Dedicated Project Manager
Industry leading communication & scheduling platform
Meticulous local contractors, fully insured & vetted

All-inclusive fixture, materials & labor packages for every budget

Remodeling Your Basement?

Here are some steps to get you started.

Step 1: Ensuring your Basement is Ready to Remodel

Is my remodel feasible?

Our first step in any project is checking hte feasibility based on building codes and budget. There are three main aspects to take into consideration when starting a basement remodel:

Ceiling Height must exceed 7 Feet, 6 Inches for habitable rooms or 7 feet for corridors and other spaces.
Septic or Sewer: If you are thinking about adding bedrooms to your basement and have a septic you will need to have your current system accessed to see if it can handle additional occupants. This may result in having to replace or upgrade your septic. If you have city sewer you may be charged additional fees
Egress: Basements used for living or sleeping purposes are required to have at least one emergency escape and rescue opening. The minimum net clear opening area of the window should be at least 5.7 square feet.

Newly built basement during a moisture test, a house before a renovation

Step 2: Designing Your Basement

A proper design can make or break your remodel.

Some important things to keep in mind are:

Direct access to utilities from the exterior. This makes it easier to access HVAC and utilities without having to walk through your finished space.
Ensuring Design plans match structural features of your space. (Checking load bearing walls and structural supports)
Ensure your design has proper lighting with finishes and ventilation that open your space, to avoid feeling like a basement.

Step 3: Starting Your Renovation

Once your design is complete, your remodel begins.

Key elements of basement remodels to consider:

Moisture Mitigation: Including waterproofing, air circulation, and dehumidifiers
Plumbing: Pump-up systems and drain trenching can complicate Basement bathroom installations.
Access panels: Ensure your contractor has access to electrical boxes, drain cleanouts, and other utilities.

How Much Should My Basement Remodel Cost?

When it comes to adding living space to your home, finishing your basement has one of the highest returns on investment of any home project.

A basement renovation in Connecticut typically costs between $70 and $120 a square foot.

What drives cost for a Basement Remodel?

Selection of finishes.
Installation of plumbing into foundation. (Trenching)
Electrical upgrades, especially meter upgrades when necessary.

FAQ:

Can I convert my unfinished basement into a livable space?liam_c_wp2023-05-30T19:23:37+00:00

Can I convert my unfinished basement into a livable space?

Absolutely! Basement remodels are a fantastic way to transform unused space into functional living areas. With proper planning and design, you can create a cozy and comfortable room for various purposes.

Do I need permits for a basement remodel in Connecticut?liam_c_wp2023-05-30T19:23:15+00:00

Do I need permits for a basement remodel in Connecticut?

Yes, permits are typically required for basement remodels in Connecticut. It’s essential to check with your local building department to ensure compliance with all necessary regulations and obtain the required permits before starting the project.

How long does a basement remodel usually take?liam_c_wp2023-05-30T19:22:59+00:00

How long does a basement remodel usually take?

The duration of a basement remodel depends on various factors, including the size of the space, complexity of the project, and any unforeseen issues. On average, a basement remodel can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Common factors that increase the time required include delays waiting for permits, time spent waiting for materials to arrive, and delays while homeowners select fixtures and finishes.

Does including a bathroom significantly increase the cost of a basement remodel?liam_c_wp2023-05-30T17:23:39+00:00

Does including a bathroom significantly increase the cost of a basement remodel?

Yes, adding a bathroom to your basement renovation project can have a significant impact on the overall cost. The addition of a bathroom involves additional plumbing work, fixtures, and finishing, which can increase the expenses. On average, including a bathroom in your basement remodel can add approximately $15,000 to $25,000 to the total cost, depending on the complexity of the installation and the chosen fixtures.

What is the average cost of a basement remodel in Connecticut?liam_c_wp2023-05-30T17:23:26+00:00

What is the average cost of a basement remodel in Connecticut?

The average cost of a basement remodel in Connecticut can vary based on various factors such as the size of the basement, the complexity of the project, and the quality of materials used. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $50,000 and $80,000 for a basement renovation in Connecticut. It’s important to obtain multiple quotes from contractors to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific requirements.

Types of Basement Renovations

Basement In-Law Suites

Basement In-Law Suites

Adding an in-law apartment or accessory suite to your basement is a great use of the space. Coupled with a walkout floorplan, CAPS standards, and ADA adherence, basement suites are a great option for those with limited mobility.

Basement Kitchens

Basement Kitchens

Who doesn’t want an additional kitchen when hosting? Adding a simple wet bar or full prep kitchen to your basement adds functionality and value, while also creating more usable living space.

Basement Bathrooms

Basement Bathrooms

If you’re adding additional living space, we always recommend adding a bathroom. Depending on where your waste water exits the home, basement bathrooms may require a “pump-up” system to return wastewater to ground level. While previously cost-prohibitive, these systems are cheaper, quieter, and more convenient than ever.

Basement Home Theater Rooms

Basement Home Theaters

One of the most popular basement remodel requests, home theaters require specific attention to sound management and acoustics.

Basement Bars and Game Rooms

Basement Bars and Game Rooms

Adding a bar or game room to your basement is a great way to add additional living space, while cutting out the costs associated with adding a bedroom, bathroom, or apartment.

Winter cottages in remote area Quebec, Canada, log house with sauna, SPA, bedrooms, pool, living room, messanine, kitchen and bathrooms

Basement Offices

Basement Offices

With the increasing availability of work-from-home arrangements, home offices are more popular than ever. Adding an office in your basement can save costs commuting, create privacy you lack at work, and depending on income can sometimes come with a tax deduction for working from home.

Basement rec room with home office desk underneath the stairs

Basement Remodel

Whether you’re looking to add a living space to an unfinished basement, or breathe new life into a little-used space, Fine Home’s dedicated teams of interior designers, project managers, and tradesmen have the tools and knowledge needed to carry your project from start to finish.

Using industry leading project management software, our process puts you at the forefront of your remodel: Whether you’d like to keep track of each detail or sit back and relax, we provide a level of oversight and transparency that sets us apart.

Our one-stop-shop approach aims to cut out subcontractors and keep our labor in-house wherever possible, giving you direct access to your interior designer, project manager, and individual craftsmen.

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