Planning A Basement Renovation: Advice from a General Contractor in Knoxville, TN
Do you want to finish or remodel your basement but don't know where to begin? We've got the perfect checklist for you! We're a general contractor in Knoxville, Tennessee, and have plenty of experience doing basement renovations (among many other types of renovations and construction). Whether you're starting with the blank slate of an unfinished basement or wanting to renovate an outdated basement, this list includes all the most important steps of a basement renovation project!
🔗CLICK HERE TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE BASEMENT RENO PLANNING CHECKLIST PDF! 🔗
TWO PHASES OF BASEMENT RENOVATION
Any basement renovation you decide to do will happen basically in two phases: the planning phase and the construction phase. Let's go over a few important first steps in the planning phase to help get you started.
RENOVATION PLANNING PHASE
1) Goals & Budget
First, you need to sit down and set your goals and budget for your renovation.
Determine the purpose of your renovated basement. Whether it's a recreational area, home theater, guest room, or additional living space, knowing your goals will guide the design and layout. What are your must-haves for your new basement and what would be nice, but isn't essential if it doesn't fit in your budget?
Set a realistic budget, accounting for materials, labor, permits, and any unexpected costs. What's your ideal renovation budget range? These are important things to know before you begin.
You can write these down on our Basement Reno Checklist PDF planning sheet. >>
2) Assess the Space
Do you know your basement's exact square footage? You may be able to find it on your home inspection from when you bought your home or online on Zillow or Realtor.com.
Conduct a thorough inspection of the basement to identify any existing issues, such as moisture problems, leaks, or structural concerns. Addressing these issues before starting the renovation is crucial to avoid future complications.
If you're working with an unfinished basement, look around and see what existing wiring and plumbing is already there. Notice where your air ducts are. These may affect things like design layout and costs. For example, if there is already plumbing roughed in for a full bathroom, it will be less expensive to build a basement bathroom. It also dictates where the bathroom should go in your layout.
Does your basement have large or small windows? If you want to add a bedroom, are the windows big enough to meet the fire code? Will you need to add an egress window?
3) Design & Layout
Create a detailed plan for the basement layout. Consider the location of utilities, lighting, and HVAC systems. Decide on the placement of walls, windows, doors, and any built-in features.
Work with a professional designer or architect to optimize the space and ensure compliance with local building codes.
4) Select Contractors
**This will be where you hire Homeworkx**
You can contact us on our website contact page or by phone at 865-985-6986 to get the process started! We will send one of our experienced estimators out to look at the space with you and go over your design plans.
5) Obtain Permits
Check with your local building department to determine if you need permits for the renovation. Depending on the scope of work, permits may be required for electrical, plumbing, and structural changes (we can take care of this for you).
6) Order Materials
Once you have the design finalized, order the necessary materials, fixtures, and finishes. Make sure to account for delivery times, especially for custom items. (We will take care of this for you).
RENOVATION CONSTRUCTION PHASE
7) Preparation
Clear out the basement of all belongings and debris before the basement renovation begins. Take measures to protect the rest of your home from dust and debris during the construction process. Taping plastic sheeting over doorways can help cut down on the amount of debris that travels through the air to other parts of your home.
8) Demolition and Construction
The basement renovation will likely start with demolition work, removing any existing walls, flooring, and fixtures. Then, the construction phase begins, which may include framing, electrical and plumbing work, insulation, and drywall installation.
During this step of the process, it's important to remind yourself that in any renovation, it may get worse before it gets better. Take a deep breath and remember that it will be worth the wait.
9) Mechanical Installations
HVAC systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, and any other mechanical installations are completed during this phase of your basement's renovation.
10) Finishing Touches
Install flooring, paint walls, add lighting fixtures, and complete any other finishing touches according to your design plan.
11) Inspections
As the renovation progresses, local building inspectors may visit to ensure the work complies with codes and regulations. Be prepared for inspections at various stages of the project.
12) Clean-Up and Final Inspection
Once the renovation is complete, the contractors will clean up the space, removing any debris and dust. A final inspection may be required before obtaining approval and closing any permits.
13) Furnishing and Decorating
Now, for the fun part! After the renovation is approved, you can move in your furniture and decorate the space to create your desired finished basement. Then you get to ENJOY it for many years to come! See, we told you it would all be worth it in the end!
🔗CLICK HERE TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE BASEMENT RENO PLANNING CHECKLIST PDF! 🔗
Ready to get the ball rolling on your basement renovation in Knoxville, Tennessee?
>> Contact us on our online Contact Form
or call us at 865-985-6986.
We proudly serve homes within 50 miles of Knoxville in:
- Knox County, TN
- Loudon County, TN
- Sevier County, TN
- Blount County, TN
- Anderson County, TN
- Grainger County, TN
- Roane County, TN
- Union County, TN
Best of luck with your basement renovations! Please reach out to us if you have any questions.
