Attention homeowners in the Twin Cities, MN metro area: you have unused potential under your feet! Nine times out of ten, an unfinished lower level functions simply as a dusty graveyard for your holiday decorations and old furniture. However, turning that awkward, unused square footage into elegant living space is one of the best home improvements you can make for your family.

Of course, the second you start imagining all the possibilities of your future family room, home theater, or guest suite, you immediately have one question popping into your mind: how long is this remodel going to take? Timing is everything when it comes to family-oriented residential renovations. Though every basement is different, generally speaking, your basement finishing contractor should be able to complete your project in as little as four weeks and as long as eight weeks. Let's break down the construction timeline, different variables, and what your basement contractor will be doing during each stage so you know what to expect and can properly prepare your family for the upcoming transformation.

Why Should I Finish My Basement?

Before we jump into timelines and specific phases of construction, let's take a second to remind ourselves why this project is such a great idea. Adding to your usable living space without altering the footprint of your home or pouring a new foundation is significantly cheaper than a traditional room addition. And whether you want a quiet office space to maximize your productivity while working from home, a brand-new workout room, playroom for the kids, or wet bar to entertain guests, the finished basement really can become anything you want it to be!

Ok, one more reason: finished basements add serious value to your home. HGTV reported that finishing your basement has an estimated ROI of 86%! That means that for every dollar you spend on this renovation, you are essentially investing it back into your home's value. Buyers in the Twin Cities search high and low for homes with finished lower levels. By hiring a professional basement finishing contractor, you can ensure that you get the biggest bang for your buck by avoiding DIY disasters, passing inspection with flying colors, and using quality products that will last for decades to come.

Factors That Affect Your Basement's Timeline

Like we mentioned above, most basement finishing projects fall between the four to eight-week range. That being said, there are a couple of important factors that can affect how long your project actually takes. The first and most obvious one is the size of your lower level. Finishing 1,500 square feet is simply going to take longer than finishing 500 square feet.

Another huge factor is the overall scope of work. Want to frame some walls, hang some drywall, and throw down some carpet? You're looking at a quick project. However, if you're adding a bathroom, custom cabinetry, or even a bedroom, expect the timeline to increase. Tying into existing plumbing to add a bathroom usually requires demolition of your concrete floor. Furthermore, any bedrooms you add need to meet Minnesota’s legal requirements, which includes installing an egress window. Digging out around that window and cutting through your concrete foundation takes some time! Be sure to have a detailed conversation with your basement finishing contractor about your desired timeline early on, given your specific design choices and home.

Phase 1: Design, Plan, and Permit (1-3 Weeks)

You may be surprised to hear that your basement remodeling journey starts way before construction even begins. This very important phase includes finalizing your layout, selecting your materials, and locking down your design.

From there, it's time to obtain your permits. Every city is different, so it could take a few days or even a few weeks to get your building, electrical, and plumbing permits approved. Rest assured, your basement finishing contractor will not start work until these are pulled. Not only does this ensure your family's safety, but it also guarantees everything is up to code. Permits can be confusing and take time, so leave this process to your basement remodeling professional. They will take care of submitting all architectural drawings, speaking with local inspectors, and making sure your project begins on day one without any delays.

Phase 2: Framing, Rough-In Plumbing, Electrical (1-2 Weeks)

With permits in hand, it's time to get down to business. First things first, the basement will be framed. This includes constructing the outside walls, any room divisions, and soffits. The latter is necessary to conceal HVAC ductwork, piping, and steel support beams from view.

Next up are the rough-ins. Now that the "skeleton" of your new space is ready, plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians can get to work installing the inner workings of your basement. Electricians will route wiring through your studs to anticipate future outlets and switch locations. Plumbers add in the necessary pipes for your dream bathroom or wet bar, and HVAC professionals ensure heating and cooling will vent to the lower level. Since multiple contractors will be coming through your home, it is critical that your basement finishing contractor properly schedules each trade to maintain your timeline and pass rough-in inspections with the city.

Phase 3: Insulation, Drywall, Paint (1.5-2.5 Weeks)

Alright, you've passed inspection on the mechanicals. Now it's time to close up those walls! Since we live in Minnesota, proper insulation will play a key role in creating a comfortable living space downstairs. Spray foam or traditional fiberglass insulation will keep the cold out and minimize noise travel between floors.

Drywall is next on the list and this is typically when homeowners get really excited. Finally, your basement looks like an actual room! However, do not be fooled, there is still a lot of work that needs to happen before you can move in. Drywall installation includes hanging the large gypsum boards, "taping" the seams, and applying a minimum of three coats of joint compound, otherwise known as mud. After each application of mud, homeowners need to wait for it to dry so that it can be sanded down. Trust us, your basement finishing contractor will know exactly what they are doing. Applying smooth and dust-free drywall finish work is a true art form that requires years of experience. Once drywall finishing is complete, it's time for painters to make your basement dreams come true.

Phase 4: Floors, Trim, and Finishing Details (1-2 Weeks)

We are in the home stretch! The painters should be wrapping up around the same time that your flooring team starts working. Remember, basement floors are notorious for flooding, so homeowners typically avoid carpeting in areas other than bedrooms and home theaters. Expect to see LVP, engineered hardwood, or tile.

Carpenters swing by to install your interior doors, baseboards, window casings, and any custom cabinets. Plumbers and electricians return to complete their finishing work which includes toilets, sinks, faucets, lighting fixtures, outlet covers, and switch plates. Lastly, a thorough cleaning of the entire area is performed to ensure any construction dust is removed. One final walkthrough with you will take place to confirm all details are up to your standards and in-line with your contract.

Want a Basement Transformation You'll Love?

At Satin Touch, we strive to be the best basement finishing contractors in the Twin Cities, MN area. Give us a call or visit our website to see why we have won the hearts of homeowners with our in-house financing, 1-year workmanship warranty, and dedication to stellar customer service. If you're ready to transform your basement, contact Satin Touch today to schedule your FREE design consultation.