Basement Development Calgary
Are you looking for a contractor to help with basement development?
Basements can be challenging to renovate. They are often smaller than the house’s main living area and can also be damp and dark. However, a well-designed basement can add valuable living space to your home.
Basement developments are a great way to do so, whether you’re looking to add an extra bedroom or bathroom or simply want to increase the livable space in your home. But where do you start? And how much will it cost? In this article, we’ll answer all of those questions and more.
The Benefits of Basement Renovations
Basement development falls into two categories: cosmetic and structural. Cosmetic renovations are mostly superficial changes, such as painting, new flooring, or installing new light fixtures. These home renovations are relatively inexpensive and can be completed relatively quickly.
Structural renovations are more substantial changes, such as adding or removing walls, increasing the ceiling height, or installing new plumbing or electrical. These renovations will cost more and take longer to complete, but they will significantly impact your basement’s overall look and feel.
Whatever type of basement development you’re planning, there are several benefits to consider:
Increased Living Space
Basement development can add valuable space to your home. Putting up new walls or replacing existing ones can create new rooms suitable for various functions, such as a home office, laundry room, playroom, home gym, or even extra bedrooms. In addition, by increasing the ceiling height, you can create a more open and spacious feel in the basement.
Improved Resale Value
Basement renovations can result in a sizeable increase in the property’s value. According to a study, a completed basement can increase the resale value of your home by up to 20%. A completed basement can provide extra living space, which is especially useful in smaller homes.
In addition, basement developments can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and help it sell faster. If you anticipate selling your home soon, a basement development may be a wise investment.
Increased Energy Efficiency
If your basement is unfinished, there are likely a lot of drafts and cold spots. Adding insulation and sealing any cracks or gaps in your basement walls and ceiling can prevent heated or cooled air from escaping. It will help you save money on your energy bills and may also make your home more comfortable to live in.
Extra Income
Extra income can be a significant boon to any household, and basement developments can be a great way to generate some extra cash. Whether you rent out your completed basement or use it for a home business, there are plenty of options for generating additional income
What to Consider Before Starting Your Basement Development
Basement development projects can be complex, so it’s essential to do your homework before getting started.
The following are some important things to keep in mind:
Building Code Requirements
The first step is to check with your local building department to see if there are any special requirements for basement development in your area. Some jurisdictions require that all basements include an emergency exit, such as a window or door.
In addition, your local building code may have specific requirements for things like ceiling height, stairway width, and the type of materials used in basement developments. It’s essential to be aware of these requirements before starting your project, as they can significantly impact the cost and timeline of your renovation.
Permits and Inspections
Once you’ve checked with your local building department, you’ll need to apply for the necessary building permit before starting your renovation. Depending on the scope of work, you may need a permit for electrical, plumbing, or structural work. You’ll also need to inspect the completed basement to ensure it meets all the necessary code requirements.
Your Budget
Perhaps the most critical consideration for any renovation is your budget. Before starting your project, you must sit down and figure out how much you’re willing to spend. Once you have a budget, you can start planning your basement development accordingly.
Keep in mind that costs can vary widely depending on the size and scope of your project. It’s also worth noting that unexpected costs can occur during any renovation. As such, it’s always a good idea to set aside some extra cash to cover unforeseen expenses.
Hiring a Contractor
You may require the help of a contractor depending on the size and scope of your renovation. Hiring an expert contractor is a good idea if you plan on doing any major structural work, such as adding or removing walls.
Basement renovation is not for DIYs. Please leave it to the experts! Luckily, many reputable and experienced basement renovation contractors in Calgary can help you with your project.
Timeline
Another important consideration for your basement development is the timeline. How long will the project take to complete? It is a crucial question because it can affect everything from your budget to your materials.
If you schedule to sell your property soon, you must account for the time it will take to complete the renovation. On the other hand, if you’re not in a hurry, you may be able to take your time and complete the project piece by piece.
The Basement Renovations Cost in Calgary
Calgary basement development costs can vary widely depending on the size of your basement, the scope of work, and the type of materials you use. Depending on the factors, a typical basement renovation costs $50,000-$100,000.
Here are the average costs for basement renovation projects in Calgary:
Demolition and Disposal
Basement demolition and disposal can be a messy and costly process, but it’s a necessary step in any basement renovation. Demolition could cost $500-$1,000, depending on the size and scope of your basement. It is also crucial to consider the cost of waste disposal, which can range from $50 to $200 per load.
Structural Work
Structural work is often necessary during a basement development, especially if the basement is not currently a living space. This work can include reinforcing the foundation, waterproofing the walls and floor, and installing new insulation. The cost for structural work will vary depending on the size and scope of the project, but it typically starts at around $2000-$5000.
Electrical Work
Electrical work is critical to any basement development, as it is responsible for powering all the lights and appliances in the finished space. As such, it’s vital to hire a qualified electrician to handle the job. Expect to pay around $2,000-$5,000 for a complete electrical rewire. Additional costs may include installing new light fixtures and switches, adding outlets and receptacles, and installing wiring for appliances.
Plumbing Work
Basement developments often include plumbing work, as the existing plumbing in a basement may not be adequate for new use. Installing new plumbing or updating old plumbing can significantly increase the cost of your renovation. Plumbing work can range from basic repairs to installing brand new piping and fixtures. The cost will depend on the complexity of the work, the materials used, and the contractor you hire. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000-$10,000 for plumbing work in a basement renovation.
Insulation
In Calgary, the insulation cost can vary depending on the type and amount of insulation you choose. Generally, batt insulation costs between $0.50 and $1.25 per square foot, while spray foam insulation costs between $1.25 and $2.50 per square foot. Additionally, most contractors will charge a fee to install the insulation, ranging from $50 to $100 per hour.
Drywall
Drywall is a popular material for finishing basement walls because it’s inexpensive and easy to install. The drywall cost will vary depending on your basement’s size and the drywall’s quality, but a typical job will cost around $1,000-$2,000.
Flooring
Flooring is one of the most costly aspects of a basement renovation, so choose a long-lasting and inexpensive material. Some popular flooring materials include vinyl, tile, and hardwood. Vinyl is the most economical option, but it is prone to scratching and staining. Tile is a bit more expensive than vinyl, but it’s durable and easy to clean. Hardwood is the most costly option, but it can add value to your home and last for many years. For a typical basement renovation, you can expect to spend anywhere from $5,000-$10,000 on flooring.
Interior Design
Creating an atmosphere reminiscent of one’s home is interior design’s primary goal. It’s about taking your unique personality and style and bringing it into your living room, bedroom, or kitchen. Interior design can assist you in achieving the look and feel you want in your home, whether you’re looking to redesign your space or add a few new touches. On average, you can expect to pay around $3,000-$10,000 for professional interior design services.
Furniture
The selection of appropriate furniture is among the most time-consuming and financially taxing aspects of designing any room. If you’re renovating your basement, you’ll need to factor in the cost of new furniture for the space. It can include anything from couches and chairs to coffee tables and end tables. The furniture cost will vary depending on your choice of materials, style, and quality. Expect to spend anywhere from $500-$5,000 on new furniture for your basement renovation.
Lighting
Lighting is vital for both function and aesthetics in any space. When renovating your basement, you’ll need to factor in the cost of new lighting fixtures. It can include anything from overhead lights to table lamps. The price of lighting fixtures will vary depending on the materials, style, and quality you choose. Expect to spend anywhere from $500-$2,000 on new lighting.
Choosing the Best Basement Renovation Contractor in Calgary
When searching for a contractor to renovate your basement, selecting someone with both experience and a good reputation is essential. A good contractor can work with you to create a space that meets your needs and budget.
When selecting a contractor for the remodeling of your basement, here are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Get multiple quotes: When getting quotes from contractors, ask for itemized estimates so you can compare apples to apples. It will provide you with a useful comparison of various contractors’ prices for the same service. It will also help you compare the quality and materials used by each contractor.
Check references: Check references and read online reviews before hiring a contractor. A good contractor can provide references from past clients who were happy with the work done. You can also ask the contractor for pictures of past projects. It will give you a good idea of the quality of their work.
Get everything in writing: When choosing a contractor, it’s essential to ensure you get everything in writing. It contains the scope of the project, the timeline, and the budget. It’s also important to know what the project includes. A formal agreement containing the terms of the project should also be able to be provided to you by the contractor. Before signing the contract, thoroughly read it and ask any questions you may have.
Get a warranty: When choosing a contractor, ask about their warranty policy. A good contractor will provide a guarantee for their work and will gladly answer any questions you may have about the entire process. Knowing that your contractor is trustworthy and will be available to resolve any issues that may arise after the renovation is completed is critical.
How to Get Ready for a Basement Renovation
Finally, you’ve decided on the design, created a budget, hired a contractor, and now it’s time to get ready for your basement renovation. But, before the work starts, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for the project.
Here’s a list of everything you should do before the renovation begins:
Clear Out the Space
The first step in preparing for your basement renovation is to clear out the space. It means moving all your furniture and belongings to another room in the house, or outside if possible. You’ll need plenty of room to work, so getting everything out of the way is essential. Be sure to label all your boxes and put them in a safe place so you can easily find them later.
Prepare for Dust and Noise
The renovation of your basement is sure to create some dust and noise. Make sure you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your home. Cover all your decors and furniture with plastic sheets and seal off any vents or doorways that could let in dust or noise. You might want to think about leaving the house during the renovation. Also, warn your neighbors about the renovation and provide them with a schedule of when the work will take place.
Prepare for Disruptions
Be prepared for disruptions to your daily routine. When renovating your basement, workers will be in and out of your house. There will also be noise, dust, and debris. To prepare for this, make arrangements for child care, if necessary. It is also a great idea to plan where you will stay if you need to leave the house during the renovation.
Address Drainage Issues
Water damage is one of the main complaints in basements. Before starting your renovation, be sure to address any drainage issues. Take time to clean out gutters and downspouts. You may also want to install a sump pump to help with drainage issues.
Decide How You Will Dispose of Waste
When renovating your basement, there will be a lot of waste generated. Be sure to plan how you will dispose of this waste. You may consider renting a dumpster or checking with your local municipality for disposal options.
Basement Development Procedures
Once you have the contractors scheduled and the materials on-site, it’s time to start the basement remodeling procedures.
To get you started, here’s a quick rundown of the steps involved in a typical basement renovation:
Demolition
The first step in any basement construction is demolition. The basement builders will begin by removing the old flooring, walls, and ceiling. This process can be messy, so it’s essential to plan for adequate ventilation and dust control.
Framing
Framing is the process of creating the basic structure of a building. In a basement project, the framing typically consists of the foundation walls, the floor joists, and the roof rafters. A carpenter generally is in charge of framing and will use various tools and techniques to construct a strong frame that can support the weight of the building.
Electrical
Once the framing is complete, the electrician will begin installing the electrical wiring. This process involves running wires through the walls and ceilings to create outlets and fixtures. The electrician will also install switches, outlets, and other devices.
Plumbing
The existing plumbing in the basement is typically usable, but it may need to be upgraded or replaced to handle the increased load of a finished basement. It is essential to put in a drainage system whenever you replace or upgrade the plumbing to stop water from seeping through the foundation and into the basement.
Insulation
Insulating your basement is a crucial step in any home improvement project, as it plays a major role in maintaining a comfortable temperature in the space year-round. Various insulation materials are available, so choose one that will work best for your basement. Fiberglass insulation is a popular choice, as it is affordable and easy to install.
Drywall
Drywall installation is one of the most critical steps in the basement project. It creates a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering, and it also helps to insulate the room. Before installing the drywall, the contractor will install furring strips to create a level surface for the panels. Once the drywall is in place, they will tape and mud the seams to create a smooth finish.
Flooring
Basement flooring can be either a concrete slab or a wooden subfloor. If you are going with the concrete slab, the process is relatively simple – just have the contractor pour the concrete and then smooth it out. If you go with the wooden subfloor, you must install the boards and then attach the trim.
Painting
Basement painting is one of the most critical steps in finishing a basement. The walls and ceilings will be your blank canvas, so choosing the right paint and taking your time with the job is essential. Many homeowners paint the walls and ceilings a light color to open up the basement space and make it feel brighter. Use good quality paint that will withstand moisture and humidity.
Clean up
The last step is to clean up the job site. Your contractor will remove any debris and waste. The project manager will perform a final walk-through to ensure that everything is to your satisfaction.
Trusted Basement Development Calgary Contractor
If you’re looking for a trusted basement renovation contractor in Calgary, look no further than YYC General Contractors. We’re fully qualified to meet all of your needs because we have over 25 years of experience in the field, along with the necessary certifications, permits, and insurance. We are committed to providing our clients with high-quality finished products and customer satisfaction.
We offer many services, including basement finishing, waterproofing, and remodeling. We’ll work with you to create a space that meets your needs and budget. We are one of the most dependable basement renovation companies in Calgary and the surrounding area for commercial and residential renovations.
Other services we provide include:
Home Renovations
Painting
And Many More
Check out the services page on our website to learn more about our ultimate renovations services!
Contact Us Today!
Basement development can be an excellent way to increase the value of your home. Whether you want to finish your basement for extra space or to create a rental unit, our team of experts can help you achieve your dream basement.
Contact us today if you’re ready to start your basement development project. We will gladly answer any queries you may have and provide you with a free estimate. Call us at (403) 852-6833 or email info@yycgeneralcontractors.ca.
We look forward to working with you!
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Our process
BASEMENT FINISHING IN Calgary Ab
We are proud of the work we do for our customers. When it comes to finishing your basement or kitchen remodel there is no better company than ours!
Our three step process ensures that you get a beautiful and finished product every time.
01.
Plan the project
With Proper planning we can ensure that your project stays withing budget and is completed on time
02.
Design to build
We begin the renovation project based on the plan we created. Making sure to minimize the impact on your home
03.
Renovation build
Rest assured that your project will be completed with the utmost professionalism and we will work with you until your happy with the final project
