Basement Renovations VS Basement Remodeling

You've likely heard the terms "basement finishing", "basement remodeling" or "basement renovations" if you are looking to upgrade the basement of your living space. If you are not well-versed in the topic, you may be wondering if there is a significant difference.

Basement remodeling is different from basement finishing because basement remodeling refers more to the structural changes that are made to the basement.

The words "remodeling" and "renovating" are often used interchangeably. Remodeling typically involves adding new materials or changing the layout of the room (such as installing new flooring, or painting walls). The remodeled basement should have a completely different look after the work is done.

Basement renovations often include the remodeling part. The basement can be transformed by changing its purpose, for example, installing a new kitchen which is one of the most expensive projects and may cost up to $30,000, depending on the square footage.

Most basement restoration projects occur after floods or fires have damaged a home. Some type of repair is usually involved in a renovation. Renovation does not change the purpose of the existing space; it restores it to a like-new state and makes it a functional living space.

Find out more about each project type and the goals they have. Then, choose which one is right for you.

Basement Renovation

Renovation of a basement includes making repairs to it and improving certain aspects, such as installing counters or lighting fixtures. The goal of the basement renovation is to return the damaged basement to its original condition. For example, replacing the tiles that were destroyed by water or upgrading your basement with aesthetic improvements.

Basement Remodeling

Remodeling is a more extensive type of renovation. This involves structural modifications to the layout and design of the basement.

Examples include adding to an existing basement or re-underpinning the basement. Remodeling your basement requires a great deal more time and expertise than simply renovating, it takes 4-6 weeks.

The costs of a full basement remodel include adding new walls for rooms, plumbing and HVAC ductwork, as well as electrics. Remodeling also includes design, architectural plans, inspections and permits, waterproofing, and framing. It may include insulation, electrical and wiring, plumbing, and drywalling. Refinishing your basement is cheaper than remodeling it.

Basement Finishing

In basement finishing, the basement must be completely reconstructed. An unfinished basement space lacks the necessary elements to make it a livable space. Finishing a basement involves installing drywall, insulation, ventilation, legal exit, ventilation, light fixtures, and plumbing. Basement Finishing, or basement construction is a process of preparing the base for future remodeling and renovation.

The basement finishing project begins with a building permit, which can take up to 10 working days. The finishing phase usually takes 2 weeks after the permit has been processed.

A key distinction between basement remodeling and finishing and renovation is that the latter can be done by the homeowner, while the former two projects require a licensed, qualified contractor.

The Main Difference Between Basement Remodeling and Finishing

When it comes to remodeling and finishing your basement, some lines may blur. The finished basement will almost always be included in the overall home square foot.

For your basement to qualify as a finished basement, it must be a space that can be used and include electricity, plumbing, and flooring.

Remodeling basement finishing is the more complex part of this project since it involves removing walls or building new ones and creating more living space. It can involve dividing it into multiple rooms or even a separate space complete with a kitchen and bathroom.

Why Is It Important to Know All These Differences?

Understanding the differences between renovating your basement, remodeling it, or finishing it will help you understand your options. They all add value to your house but finishing and remodeling usually require more work and therefore cost more, than renovating. You will be able to make better decisions about your basement renovation.

Knowing these differences will help you make the right choices about your basement renovation project type to determine the budget you will need. It can also help you find a basement contractor to help you with your project.

Additionally, having this knowledge about remodeling, renovating, and finishing or re-finishing can help you determine how you want to re-purpose your basement. Not to mention this will also allow you to efficiently calculate the time it will take to complete your basement project

Finally, understanding the differences between basement projects will ensure that your basement meets municipal requirements.

Safety local building codes are constantly updated. Basements that are older than 15 years may be outdated, and unsafe for living. Materials, electrical wiring and window requirements have all changed.

If you want to remodel a basement that is older than 15 years, it's important to invest first in the remodeling to ensure its legality. You can then confidently start your project knowing that it is compliant with the city's laws and energy efficient.