The majority of Utah homes have a basement built into their floorplan. However, not every homeowner chooses to finish their basement when they first build their home. When Utahans, like you, decide that they are ready for a finished basement, they nearly always have questions. How much should it cost to finish your basement in Utah? Should I DIY or hire a contractor? What do I need to ask before hiring a Utah basement finishing company?
But, before answering all of your questions, let’s discuss the basics.
What to Know Before Finishing Your Basement in Utah
Finishing your basement involves a lot of work, whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a professional. From understanding the costs of finishing your basement in Utah to knowing the typical timeline, arming yourself with knowledge regarding basement contracting can make the entire process easier.
Fortunately, there are tricks you can use to make the process easier. Our team of experts install basement finishes around Utah year-round. That is why we understand the value a finished basement can provide a Utah homeowner, including increasing your property value, living space, and financial opportunities.
With all of our team’s experience in Utah home construction, you can consider Aspire Construction your go-to team for answering your basement finishing questions. For example, the value of finishing your basement comes from comparing other property values in your area. While it will always add value to finish your basement in terms of resell value, you should also consider what value it adds to your life now.
Ideas for Finishing Your Utah Basement
Perhaps you want to transform your unfinished basement into a rental property. Renting out your basement can help you earn extra income and even help you pay off your mortgage faster. College towns in Utah, such as Provo, Logan, and Salt Lake City, are great rental markets.
Finished basements are also great for storage and extra space. Think about what your current home is missing while designing your basement—what do you want included? Many Utah homeowners leave extra space in their basement for storage. Others install home theaters, craft rooms, fitness areas, and more. Since an unfinished basement typically has a rough layout, the design is reasonably easy to manipulate. Have fun and make it yours.
Now that we have our bases covered let’s answer all of your basement finishing questions.
How Much Should It Cost to Finish Your Basement in Utah?
Perhaps the most frequently asked question in Utah is how much it will cost to finish my basement. While it largely depends on the size of your home, a finished basement project can run between $30,000 to $60,000. You must also consider how you want to customize your design. If you need specialized electrical or multiple bathrooms, the price will lean towards the steeper end.
5 Signs That You Shouldn’t DIY Finishing Your Utah Basement
Some Utah homeowners take on the task of finishing their basement themselves. While it isn’t impossible to do it on your own, it does take a lot more work. There is plenty of information online to help you finish your basement. Unfortunately, some challenges could seem daunting when you don’t have a professional there lending a hand. If you are trying to decide whether to DIY or hire a basement contractor, here are five signs you should seek professional help.
- Your Basement DIY is Taking Too Long
If you have already started finishing your basement by yourself and it’s taking too long, consider getting additional help. Most homeowners in Utah who start DIY-ing their basement finishing project get overwhelmed and quit before it’s done. No matter how far along you are, an experienced basement contractor can help. Don’t let your basement stay unfinished another year, get the help you need right away. - You Keep Running into Major Issues
Finishing a basement may seem simple, but challenges can come up you don’t know how to handle. Whether you are having trouble installing plumbing, electrical, or keep making mistakes, a basement finishing company can speed the process along. They will also get it done safely, without any hiccups. - You Have Never Done Any Major Construction Projects
If you don’t have experience finishing basements or doing construction, it is probably best that you hire a basement finishing contractor. Even if you think you have done all the research and watched hours of YouTube tutorials. Nothing compares to experience. You can always ask your contractor if there are areas you can do yourself to save money if you want to get your hands a little dirty and contribute to finishing your basement. - You Can’t Do It All
As mentioned earlier, most basement contractors will work with you customizing your project. Let them know the areas you need help and what you want to do yourself. The chances are that they will help you customize a process that better fits your needs and budget. Plus, they can look over your work to make sure it is all done correctly. - You Don’t Know All the Legalities
If you don’t know the specific rules and regulations required by Utah’s local municipalities, it is probably best to hire a basement finishing company with experience in your area. A professional basement remodeling company in Utah is aware of all the legal requirements that need to be met and followed before and during a basement remodeling project.
4 Questions Every Utahan Should Ask Before Hiring a Utah Basement Finishing Company
After deciding that it’s best to hire a Utah basement finishing company rather than doing it yourself, there are a series of questions you should ask the companies you are vetting. Here is what our contractors suggest:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide a list of referrals?
- Do you have a contracting license and insurance?
- How long will the project take?
Asking these questions will help you narrow down your search. It will also give you the experience and knowledge you need to feel comfortable hiring them as your basement contractor. Use these questions as your starting point into opening up a dialogue that ensures you hire a basement finishing company suited to your needs.
For more information about basement finishing services in Utah, contact the basement finishing specialists at Aspire Construction.