The Costs of Building a Basement

July 12, 2019

A basement provides a lot of extra space and value, both of which you’re going to want to consider whenever you’re building a new home. However, you also need to think about the costs of adding a basement to your home design, especially if there are challenging issues associated with the terrain in your area.

Most people find basements to be well worth the investment they put in, but it’s still important to consider the factors that influence the cost. Here’s some information from a concrete contractor in Racine, WI.

Type of basement

Do you want a true basement, or will a crawlspace suffice? This is one of the first issues you should consider. Obviously, a true basement will cost significantly more than a small crawlspace, as you need to lay a foundation, build up cinderblock walls, pour a concrete floor and use a variety of moisture prevention tactics. Expect to pay about $7,000 to $10,000 for a basement in a 1,800 square foot house (though of course this total will vary widely depending on where you live). Crawlspaces will cut thousands off this total, but they also don’t give you the same level of utility.

To finish or not to finish?

Finishing your basement can help you make the most out of the extra space it provides you, though of course it comes with extra costs. You need to consider the extra costs for infrastructural needs such as studs, HVAC, electrical and plumbing work, as well as finishings such as flooring, drywall, fixtures, paint and more.

Moisture control

Basements often have issues with moisture, so it’s important to consider the moisture control methods you’ll use when building the basement. These methods also add to the cost of building the basement, but they’re worth it to prevent you from having to deal with frequent mold and mildew problems. You should make sure the basement is sealed from the exterior. There are various types of moisture-resistant drywalls and floorings you can use, and you should also be sure to use moisture/vapor barriers as appropriate.

Contractor costs

You’ll also need to take into consideration the costs your contractor will charge you. You don’t want to skimp on the labor here. Keep in mind that your foundation is literally what holds up your house, so this is an area where it makes sense to pay for quality. Ask around and get some quotes from contractors, and make sure to delve a bit into their histories and capabilities so you can make sure you’re working with a team that’s going to give you high-quality, trustworthy results.

Additional needs

Depending on the terrain around your home, there might be additional expenses to consider. For example, people who have homes in the mountains or on cliffsides might need extra steel support in their basement walls, which can add some significant expense. The depth of the basement might also require additional material considerations.

For more information, contact Langenfeld Masonry & Concrete to speak with an experienced concrete contractor in Racine, WI.

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