If you're thinking about finishing your basement by yourself, there are five critical considerations that you need to keep in mind before starting your basement remodel project.
Do you have enough time to commit to this project? Usually, a basement remodeling project takes 10 to 12 weeks to complete properly, and it involves a team of more than 30 professionals. You need to assess how much time you can dedicate to the project each week, and what you will miss or give up to make that time.
Do you have the knowledge required to complete the project safely and productively? Finishing a basement without proper knowledge of building codes could be costly in terms of time and money. A lack of adequate understanding of building codes and the structural composition of your home could also compromise the structural integrity of your home. If something goes wrong, you need to know how to quickly and safely address the problem. Basement remodels, renovations and finishes also have unique challenges that non-basement projects don’t, and incorrectly handling those challenges could result in a less-than-satisfactory finish / feature in the basement or even cause damage to your upstairs.
Do you have the experience necessary to achieve professional results that will raise the value of your home? Experience is one of the most important keys to achieving high-quality, impressive, and professional results. Oftentimes it takes time and practice to gain the knowledge needed to accomplish certain tasks, and not everything can be learned solely by observation. To achieve your desired results, you need to understand the construction process that will take you from where you are now to your completed basement goal.
Do you have the tools necessary to efficiently accomplish each task? Some tasks require specialized tools that you may not have. You need to decide whether to borrow, rent or purchase the necessary tools which can be very time consuming and potentially very expensive. Professional craftsmen have a wide range of tools specially designed for specific tasks that are essential to achieving value-raising, professional-looking results.
Do you have the energy and dedication required for this project? Taking on such a massive endeavor demands a steadfast commitment of time, energy, and dedication. While it typically takes a large team of skilled professionals around three months to complete a standard basement, consider how long you estimate it taking you. Many homeowners embarking on such projects burn out within weeks, and those who finish often report it taking around two years or more. A common regret is not hiring a professional initially, which could have saved both time and money. Backtracking and redoing work on a partially completed DIY project can be costly, and starting with a professional from the beginning could avoid such expenses as well as allows more time for enjoyable activities.
Finishing a basement is not a weekend project, but a major undertaking that requires a tremendous amount of time, knowledge, expertise, and a broad selection of specialized tools. When executed correctly, it can substantially enhance your home's value. However, if not done properly, it could become a weak point, diminishing your property's overall value. If you find yourself uncertain about any of these crucial considerations, entrusting the job to a professional is a wise choice. We, at Millgate Homes, are basement finishing experts with over 25 years of experience. As a fully licensed and insured general contracting company, we boast an experienced team of craftsmen dedicated to completing your basement professionally in just a few short weeks, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life. Reach out to us today!
