Basement Renovations in Peterborough

Plenty of homes around Peterborough have an unfinished basement. We turn that space into rooms your family will actually use: a family room, a guest bedroom, a home office or a rec room.

Thinking about a suite? We also convert unfinished basements into secondary suites and in-law suites, whether the space is for rental income or for a family member.

A finished basement is only as good as the space underneath it. Before framing goes up, a good contractor checks the foundation walls and floor for signs of water: staining, damp corners, or a musty smell after heavy rain.

In Peterborough and the Kawarthas, the spring thaw puts real pressure on foundations. Dealing with a water problem before the walls are closed in costs far less than tearing out finished drywall later. Waterproofing and foundation repair are a different trade from finishing, so a wet wall or floor gets sorted out first.

Most basement projects start with a rough idea: a family room for the kids, a guest bedroom, an office away from the noise upstairs. List how the space will be used day to day, then work the layout around the furnace, water heater and support posts that are already there.

Natural light matters more below grade than anywhere else in the house. Putting the main living area near the existing windows, and keeping storage and laundry in the darker corners, makes the whole floor feel like part of the home.

A basement that feels cold won't get used, however good it looks. Insulating the foundation walls properly and choosing a subfloor made for below-grade spaces are what make a finished basement comfortable through a Kawarthas winter.

For flooring, luxury vinyl plank is a common choice because it handles the occasional bit of moisture and feels warmer underfoot than tile. Carpet can work in bedrooms and quiet rooms, as long as the space below is dry.

A bathroom is often what turns a finished basement into a space people actually use, whether it's for guests, teenagers or a suite. A spot close to the existing drain lines is usually simpler than one on the far side of the floor. If the drains sit too high for a toilet and shower to drain by gravity, a pump system can solve it, and that is worth sorting out at the estimate. More on bathroom renovations.

A suite is a self-contained unit, usually with its own kitchen, bathroom and entrance, and it has to meet the Ontario Building Code for things like fire separation, smoke alarms and safe exits. Planning the suite from the start, rather than adding it later, keeps the layout and the costs under control.

The size of the space, the layout, the ceiling height, moisture, electrical and plumbing changes, the finishes you choose and permits all move the price of a basement renovation. Prices vary a lot between homes, so ask for an itemised quote that says what is included.

A range from a guide is a range across many homes, not a quote. The only way to get a real number is to have someone look at the space, which is what the free estimate at your home is for.

A building permit is typically required for a secondary suite. Before you start, ask your municipality's building department what applies to your plan (in the City of Peterborough, the building division). Rules differ by property and change, so confirm with them first.

Peterborough and the area within about a 30-minute drive, including Bridgenorth, Lakefield, Millbrook and Norwood. Call (705) 740-3966 or use the form above to book a free estimate at your home.