DIY Basement Finishing vs. Professional Contractors

You are finally ready to get started on finishing your basement. You are either a newer homeowner or a more seasoned homeowner determined to make that next step. Are you fed up with the higher energy costs and the unpleasant look of your basement? Then, it’s time to get to work! How are you going to go about it? You are at the point of considering DIY basement finishing vs basement development companies Calgary. 

First, you need to decide if you need a contractor for your basement. This is a decision made on a case-by-case basis. Each homeowner is going to have different resources at their disposal. How you decide to utilize those resources is a personal preference. For example, if you are related to a carpenter, you could lean on that person more and feel more confident in choosing to go DIY. However, if you are entirely new to the idea of basement remodelling, basement development contractors Calgary will be your best option.

Since the upswing of platforms such as YouTube, Etsy, and many other blogs, the idea of DIY (doing it yourself) is becoming more appealing to the average person more and more.

Pros of DIY Basement Finishing

1. Cheaper Upfront Costs

Going DIY eliminates all labour and time costs because YOU put in the time and labour. And since you’re liable for the building materials, you may be able to invest a little more into your materials, such as that shiny granite countertop, as opposed to the less expensive option.

2. Involvement of friends and family

Want to spend some more time with your family? Ask them to join in on finishing your basement! You can be your contractor and head up the project, but things often work better when more hands are available for the heavy lifting. We STRONGLY advise caution when tiny hands (children) are involved. Renovating a home essentially is creating a construction site. Safety is mandatory, and children should not be around such hazardous materials, tools, or situations.

3. Sense of pride

After your finished basement is complete, you can step back and smile at a job well done. You did it! You have transformed your old basement into a functioning space for your entire family, and it will be a bonus if you decide to sell later.

Cons to DIY Basement Finishing

1. Time management issues

While it is great to do projects on your own, the time you take to learn to do a task and work on your renovations and fix whatever mistakes you are making as you go will add time to your project. This isn’t a problem in some cases, but if you are working under a time crunch, calling in professional basement development contractors Calgary to finish your basement would be a good idea.

2. The pressure is on

Being the general contractor comes with power and responsibilities. You are responsible for making all of the decisions and executing all of those decisions. If you have people helping you, you are responsible for them as well. Whether it is a monetary contribution or just a pack of beer, it is essential to compensate everyone for their hard work.

3. Unexpected costs

At the beginning of your renovations, you will do your best to make a list of all of the things you need to do. Without the input of a professional, things can fall through the cracks. Forgotten permits, unforeseen safety measures, and cutting corners are all problems of a DIY project. All of these things can cost more money at a later date than you budgeted.

Pros of Hiring a Basement Finishing Contractor

1. Hands-off

When it comes to working with a professional, you have the easy job of communicating your vision and detailing your budget and allowing your contractor to do the rest. You don’t have to manage the people, the materials, or even the safety measures. You get to relax and watch as your vision comes to life.

2. Safety

Safety comes second nature because you are working with a professional who has done this job numerous times. They will let you know when it is safe to take a look and bring the family in to celebrate each milestone. They will also let you know what to look out for and when to steer clear of the area. They will also be responsible for and protect their employees without question.

3. Speed of renovation

Again, professional contractors have done this job many, many times. They have a great concept of time management and professionalism. If a job goes over time, they will tell you in advance. Otherwise, they will finish on time or earlier. They will also finish faster than you could have done on your own. They have an entire career of training for this job. Their expertise alone is worth the cost.

How to choose basement development contractors in Calgary – DIY or Hire a professional?

Choosing DIY basement finishing vs a professional contractor is based on your individual or family situation. If you are looking for basement development companies Calgary then you can count on tartin calgary basement development to make your basement more functional.