How do you make an unfinished basement liveable?

The best way to make your unfinished basement feel complete is by adding accents and decor just as you would to any other room in your house. In addition to the basement ideas above, like hanging string lights and adding area rugs, bring in other details that will add warmth, texture, and ambiance.

What is the cheapest way to renovate a basement?

You can save on the cost to finish a basement by doing things not bound by codes: installing trim or doors, painting walls and woodwork, and installing flooring, says Buckeye Basements’ Jon Smith. Beyond that, count on using some pros.

How do you make an unfinished basement livable on a budget?

1. 10 Ideas for your Unfinished Basement.
2. 1 | Hide Mechanicals.
3. 2 | Install Electrical Outlets.
4. 3 | Deep Clean the Basement.
5. 4 | Add Overhead Lighting.
6. 5 | Paint the Exposed Ceiling.
7. 6 | Paint the Basement Walls.
8. 7 | Paint the Basement Concrete Floors.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement ceiling?

A super easy DIY option for your basement ceiling is glue-on tiles. Typically made of polystyrene or fiberboard, these tiles come in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles, and are also paintable. You’ll need to install a foundation, like plywood, to glue them to. But after that, it’s as simple as glue and stick.

How can I remodel my basement myself?

1. Step 1: Decide How You Want to Use the Space.
2. Step 2: Set a Budget.
3. Step 3: Clean Out Your Space.
4. Step 4: Conduct a Moisture Test.
5. Step 5: Research Local Codes and Requirements.
6. Step 6: Insulate Your Basement.
7. Step 7: Take Care of Electrical and Plumbing.
8. Step 8: Frame and Put Together Any Additional Walls.

What can I use instead of drywall in my basement?

• Wood Planks. Wood planks are an age-old drywall alternative that has certainly stood the test of time well.
• Veneer Plaster.
• Lath & Plaster.
• Plywood and Sheet Wood.
• Texture Wall Panels.
• Brick & Masonry.
• Exposed Concrete Block.
• Cement Board.

Is it worth finishing a basement?

Many people wonder if finishing their basement is worth the time, effort, and money to remodel their downstairs space. To answer that directly, yes, finishing your basement will almost always increase the value of your property. The standard return is around 70%, according to Remodeling.HW.net.

What is the cheapest ceiling to install?

Drywall is the most inexpensive ceiling to install at $2 to $3 per square foot. Tray ceilings are equally affordable at $2 to $4 per square foot and so are tongue and groove designs.

Should you insulate basement ceiling?

Yes—in most cases insulating your basement is a good idea because it will pay dividends down the road. Not only does wall insulation help keep your home warmer but it may also help soundproof the space.

Should I drywall my basement ceiling?

A big advantage of having a drywall/sheetrock ceiling in a basement is that loss of headroom will be minimal. Drywall uses less space so it is a good choice when you have low ceilings and need to take advantage of all the headroom possible. Drywall will not sag.

How do you insulate an unfinished basement?

Is it OK to paint basement walls?

Painting your basement walls can do more than just improve the look of your home; it can protect your foundation from water damage and moisture. Basement walls that are made out of finished drywall can be painted the same way that you would paint a standard wall in your home.

How do you cover concrete walls indoors?

1. The first step to cover a concrete wall is to seal it. Concrete is porous and absorbs water like a sponge.
2. Build a frame out of wood or metal.
3. Fill the cavities with insulation.
4. Hang the drywall by screwing it to the wood.
5. Spackle and sand as needed.
6. Paint or finish the drywall as needed.

What is the hardest part of finishing a basement?

What’s the biggest challenge in finishing a basement? “Typically, the biggest challenge is working around obstructions. There are heating ducts, plumbing drains, water pipes, gas lines and electrical wires that are all off and hung below the floor joist.

What type of flooring is best for concrete basement?

Aside from luxury vinyl, some of the best basement flooring options are sheet vinyl, laminate, carpeting, and prefinished hardwood.

Do you need to insulate basement walls?

Walls. Basement walls should be insulated with non-water sensitive insulation that prevents interior air from contacting cold basement surfaces—the concrete structural elements and the rim joist framing.

What is the cheapest interior wall material?

Plywood. If you’re looking for cheap panels for walls, plywood is inexpensive, easy to install, and durable.

What is the cheapest way to cover a wall?

1. Curtains.
2. Peel And Stick Wallpaper.
3. Print Fabric.
4. Wall Panels.
5. Wallpaper Panels.
6. Mirrors.
7. Foam Boards.
8. Art Prints & Photography.

Is it cheaper to drywall or shiplap?

Cost and Installation Drywall panels are cheaper than shiplap per sq. ft., but once you factor in the cost of installation, shiplap usually comes out ahead as the more budget-friendly option. The average price for drywall is $15 per 4-by-8 foot panel or around $2.15 per sq.

Why do so many houses have unfinished basements?

Some just want the room to act as extra storage or utility room that won’t need as much attention as other rooms. It could also be that a homeowner wants to leave a basement incomplete to pave way for its customization. Such a basement will remain incomplete until the owner is ready to start the redesign process.

Does adding a bathroom in the basement add value?

Adding a basement bathroom can increase your home’s resale value by 10%-20%. It also can turn a wasted space into an enjoyable addition to your home. The average basement bathroom will cost $3,000-$25,000, depending on the existing plumbing and condition of your basement.

What is the best ceiling for a basement?

Suspended ceilings are one of the most popular basement ceilings. Consisting of a simple grid and lightweight tiles or panels, a suspended ceiling covers exposed beams, ductwork, and electrical wiring, while allowing easy access for repairs or leaks.

What is the cheapest way to cover a popcorn ceiling?

The cheapest ways to cover up a popcorn ceiling without removing it is by installing readily prepared ceiling planks right over it. You can also use ceiling-grade drywall panels or large pieces of fabric to conceal the texture. Panting the ceiling with eccentric shades is also a great option.

Are drop ceilings cheaper than drywall?

Drop ceilings are more expensive to install than drywall making drywall the cheaper option. However, if you can install a drop ceiling by yourself, you can save on labor costs. You should also factor in paint costs for a drywall ceiling and whether you are hiring a professional to install and paint for you.

Should I put a vapor barrier on my basement ceiling?

In Closing. Using a vapor barrier helps you control the moisture in your basement. It is good to install one but is not necessary for basement ceilings.