Frequently Asked Questions
- How much will my basement cost to build?
- How long will it take to construct my basement?
- Will the value of my home increase after finishing my basement?
- Should I get a permit for finishing my basement?
- Do I have to put the bathroom, wet bar or kitchen where the current rough plumbing is located?
- Do I have to put the bedroom where the current egress window is located?
- Can I build a fireplace in my basement?
- Should I pay to have a detailed design and set of blueprints made?
- Is my house going to be a mess during the construction process?
- Who should I use to create my ultimate basement?
Answer: This is generally the first and most common question asked. Unfortunately, there is not a simple answer or formula. The cost of your project is directly related to the features and finish you want in your basement, the size of your finished space, the unique aspects of your existing basement construction and the efficiency and effectiveness of the contractor you choose. Beware of any contractor who will provide an estimate or a price per square foot prior to completing a detailed design and set of blueprints. This type of estimating is highly inaccurate and generally leads to unhappy customers. Aspen Basement Company of Denver provides our homeowners with firm fixed pricing based on detailed designs, blueprints and material lists. Our custom designs are developed jointly with the homeowner with their budget requirements in mind.
Question: How long will it take to construct my basement?
Answer: This is also a difficult question to answer prior to developing a detailed design. In general, our designs require 6-12 weeks of construction to complete. The time requirements are dependent upon the complexity of the design, as well as special lead time items from outside suppliers such as custom cabinets, special order tile and carpet or other unique requirements. Aspen Basement Company of Denver provides our homeowners with a guaranteed detailed construction schedule along with our firm fixed price proposal.
Question: Will the value of my home increase after finishing my basement?
Answer: There is no doubt that a professionally designed and constructed basement will enhance the value of your home. Local real estate companies and remodeling associations can provide some general guidelines. Keep in mind, however, that local and national statistics and guidelines incorporate all types and qualities of basement finishes. A professional, high quality custom design, such as that provided by Aspen Basement Company of Denver, will give you with the highest return on your investment.
Question: Should I get a permit for finishing my basement?
Answer: A properly permitted and inspected basement finishing project is essential to insure a safe and high quality addition to your home. A fully permitted and inspected project also is a requirement for capturing top dollar for your finished basement when selling your home. Aspen Basement Company of Denver is licensed and insured in all metropolitan Denver areas where we work, and obtains all required permits and inspections for all of our projects.
Question: Do I have to put the bathroom, wet bar or kitchen where the current rough plumbing is located?
Answer: In most instances you will not be limited to designing your bathroom, wet bar or kitchen where the existing rough plumbing is located. In some basements, rough plumbing is not even provided. During the design phase, we will jointly look at various options for the location of these features, taking into account the water supply, drainage and venting requirements.
Question: Do I have to put the bedroom where the current egress window is located?
Answer: In most instances you will not be limited to designing your bedroom where the existing egress window is located. We have the capability of expanding existing window openings and well sizes to meet or exceed egress window requirements. In addition, we also have the capability to cut in egress windows where an existing window does not exist.
Question: Can I build a fireplace in my basement?
Answer: We are able to install direct vent gas fireplaces in most basements. A high quality fireplace with an attractive mantle and tile or stone surrounds can be a great addition to your custom basement. Aspen Basement Company of Denver also installs indoor/outdoor fireplaces for walkout basements, giving you the flexibility of having a fireplace in your basement as well as on your outside patio.
Question: Should I pay to have a detailed design and set of blueprints made?
Answer: Developing a detailed design, set of blueprints and material list is really the only way to provide you with a firm fixed price to construct the basement you want. Estimates generated without a detailed design and set of prints can vary greatly, resulting in construction costs that exceed your budget or a final product that doesn't meet your expectations. Aspen Basement Company of Denver will only provide firm fixed price proposals based on detailed designs, blueprints and material lists. If you have already hired an architect or design firm and have detailed plans, we can work with them. We do prefer to develop plans utilizing our in-house design personnel and state-of-the-art software. We will provide you with detailed plans, 3-dimensional views and complete material list along with our firm fixed price proposal for your custom basement design.
Question: Is my house going to be a mess during the construction process?
Answer: Any construction project will generate a certain amount of dust and debris. Aspen Basement Company of Denver understands the importance of keeping your home safe and clean during the construction process. We go to great lengths to insure your safety and convenience during this process. Your basement will be swept clean and all debris removed each evening. Protective screens and other materials will be utilized to limit the amount of dust inside of your home. Your neighbors will be pleased to know that there will not be a dumpster in the street during construction. We believe that construction dumpsters are not only an eyesore, but also create a safety hazard for the neighborhood.
Question: Who should I use to create my ultimate basement?
Answer: Quite simply, Aspen Basement Company of Denver is your best choice. We have created hundreds of custom basement designs in the Denver area. Our management team has extensive experience in the industry. We utilize the same craftsmen and certified technicians on every project, which enables us to maintain the highest levels of quality and consistency. We truly enjoy creating great basements designed to fit your needs. Let us create your ultimate basement retreat!
