We have a full unfinished basement. This year we will start the work: sealing, waterproofing, and all the work required to make 2 parts: one section a rental, the other section for out-of-season storage and office space accomodating both of us. We need to excavate for an outside entry for the tenant, enlarge all windows, for light and egress, plus build a little side garden for tenant’s use. What’s best way to save money and get good results- do we give this to one contractor, or sub each phase ourselves? Thank you. Carla
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Finishing a basement is a relatively mild home renovation. If you are looking to save money this might be an ideal job to contract yourself, a good job in which to get your feet wet. Had this been an addition or similar size project, I`d recomend hiring a contractor for your first go round.
Just be sure to research all phases involved thoroughly and get references for all potential subcontractors. Knowing exactly what you want to do and who you want to do it ahead of time will make the project proceed much smoother.
Best of luck!
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
"DO IT RIGHT, DO IT ONCE"
Jaybird, that is just plain mean. I mean, I want to read homeowner/DIY horrorstories as much as thre next guy, but I'm not about to recommend one just to eventually hear the story.
I love the getting your feet wet part, like that old joke about jumping into the manure pile, " it's only up to my ankles, next guy jumps in, over his head....hey, I thought you said it was only to your ankles.... IT IS, I jumped in head first"
Excavations, footers, egress, inspections.....is this how to get experience? Well yes, but maybe try a rec. room project first before we alter structure.
Scratch that.....I think this is a great DIY project. You will save tons of money and gain some very rewarding experience in the process. Did I mention the 58% savings? That is the best part. Keep that in focus and the project will be loads of fun, so much fun in fact, it would be a crime to call it "work". Enjoy!.......Please keep us posted......do you have a digital camera.........we LOVE pictures.
I didn`t recomend the home owner do the work themselves. Compared to many other types of home renovation projects this one sounds relatively straightforward and requires a limited array of trades people.
Perhaps though once they read your post theyll be thoroughly frightened into paying someone to coordinate a rather basic project. J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
"DO IT RIGHT, DO IT ONCE"
My point was this, basic for you and I is NOT basic for a DIY. When I read excavate for a walkout entrance, I thought Hmmmm....lower existing footers below frost(since they would now be exposed. Would a DIY know to do this OR would they figure" dig down till you hit floor level and cut through a door"
For most DIYers, they are over their head when the drywall paper starts coming off with the wallpaper they are stripping. Structural modifications ....fooooogetaboutit.
I don't know where you are but I'd check with zoning first. I multi-unit dwelling may not be allowed.
The sealing, waterproofing, and foundation drainage are the most critical aspects of this project, in my opinion. Make sure to get a reputable contractor or professional advice on this.
Ken Hill
Hi Carla,
A good point was made earlier...first, find out if zoning/code enforcement in your region will allow you to remodel your dwelling for rental use. Since you mentioned that you would need larger windows and an exit door, perhaps you have already done this homework?
As for subbing out this job, why not instead get 3 bids from reputable remodeling contractors who normally do home additions. This type of contractor will be experienced in both site work and interior work. He will already have the subs needed for each type of specialty work.
Simply inform all 3 bidders as to what you want. The more detailed the better. A sketch or simple drawing, indicating how you want the basement space divided up would be very helpful. Indicate the type/ style of windows, doors that you desire. Indicate how you plan to heat/cool the space, include any special electrical/TV cable needs or locations, etc. etc. THE MORE DETAILED AND SPECIFIC, THE EASIER IT WILL BE TO OBTAIN BIDS THAT DEFINE "APPLES TO APPLES".
I'm sure you have a price in mind as to what you expect this whole thing will cost you. If these bids come in around your price, then go this route; rather than try to tackle this job on your own. ONLY IF YOU TRULY CAN'T AFFORD THIS PROJECT THROUGH USING A REMODELING CONTRACTOR, SHOULD YOU THEN THINK ABOUT OPTING TO GO THE DIYFer route.
If you go the DIYFer route, you still should hire a professional excavator to dig out around your basement walls, install the new entryway, enlarge your window rough openings, and backfill and waterproof your foundation walls. Don't attempt this. If you get it wrong, your interior can get ruined from water infiltration.
Just a thought. Good luck on your project.
Davo
Carla,
I would recommend putting this job out to bid. But, make sure you have a clear, specific, and a detailed scope of work in hand before you ask anyone to price it. This will benefit both you and the contractor in the long run. It's the old "compare apples to apples & oranges to oranges" saying. There is nothing worse then taking time to bid a job with a different scope then the other bidders and lose it only because you had a much different scope to go by. Be fair to the bidders and yourself! Good Luck!!! VINCe