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Ultimate Guide 10 min read Updated 2026-02-01

Basement Finishing Guide 2026

Finish your basement for extra living space. Costs, waterproofing, and design ideas.

Table of Contents

Finishing Costs

Basic finish: $25-$50/sq ft
  • Drywall, flooring, ceiling, lighting
Mid-range: $50-$75/sq ft
  • Add bathroom, better finishes
High-end: $75-$100+/sq ft
  • Full kitchen, wet bar, high ceilings
1,000 sq ft basement:
  • Basic: $25,000-$50,000
  • Mid: $50,000-$75,000
  • High: $75,000-$100,000+

Waterproofing First

Before finishing, address moisture:
  • Interior drainage: $3,000-$8,000
  • Exterior waterproofing: $8,000-$15,000
  • Sump pump: $500-$1,500
  • Dehumidifier: $200-$500
Skip this step = potential disaster

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