Residential service
Unfinished space,
turned into rooms you use.
Finishing a lower level is one of the few ways to gain living space without changing the footprint of a house. Moisture, ventilation and egress have to be resolved before any of the finishing work is worth doing.
What the work
covers.
- Assessment of moisture, drainage and ventilation before finishing
- Framing, insulation and drywall
- Egress, lighting and electrical work
- Plumbing for a bathroom, bar or utility area where practical
- Flooring, trim, built-in cabinetry and paint
- Conversion of lower levels into living, media, guest or utility space
How it works
From first call
to finished work.
Tell us about the project
Describe the work you have in mind, where the property is and what matters most to you. A short form or a phone call is enough to begin.
Site visit
We look at the property, take measurements and review the existing conditions. This is where what is possible gets separated from what is assumed.
Written estimate
You receive an itemized scope with material specifications or allowances, and a statement of what is excluded. It is free and carries no obligation.
Permits, schedule and build
Once the scope is agreed, permits are filed where required and the work is scheduled. One project manager coordinates the trades and keeps you informed.
More services
Everything else we
can take on.
Let’s talk about
your project.
Tell us what you have in mind. The site visit and the written estimate are free.
Useful to know
A few questions,
answered.
Do homes in this area have basements?
Most South Florida homes do not, because of the water table and typical construction. Where a lower level, sunken area or substantial under-house space does exist, it can sometimes be finished. The first step is establishing what you actually have.
What has to be resolved before finishing?
Moisture and water intrusion, ventilation, adequate ceiling height and code-required egress. Finishing over an unresolved moisture problem conceals it and guarantees the work will have to be redone.
Does finishing a lower level need a permit?
Creating habitable space generally does, particularly where electrical, plumbing, egress or fire separation are involved. Ask which requirements apply to your property.
Can a bathroom be added down there?
Sometimes, but drainage below the main sewer line may require a pump system. Feasibility has to be assessed on site before it is planned into the layout.
What can the space be used for?
Living, media, guest, home office, gym or utility space are all common. Intended use affects egress, ventilation and electrical requirements, so decide it early rather than after framing.
Will it feel like a basement?
That depends on ceiling height, natural light and how the stair and entry are handled. These are worth spending on, because no amount of finish compensates for a low, dark room.
How is moisture controlled?
Through drainage, vapour control and ventilation appropriate to the construction, decided after the space has been assessed. Ask for the approach to be written into the scope.
How much does finishing cost?
Area, ceiling height, what has to be corrected first, and whether plumbing is added all affect it. It is priced after the space has been seen.
Can it be done alongside other work?
Yes. If you are already planning a remodel, including the lower level lets trades cover both in one mobilization.
How do I get an estimate?
Use the free estimate form or call +1 (561) 562-2318. Describe the space and how you would like to use it, and a site visit can be arranged.