A Basement Remodel - From Vision to Proposal

The first step for a successful basement remodel is a vision for how the space will be used.

Are you thinking about remodeling your basement?

Starting a basement remodel isn’t just about picking paint colors or flooring—it’s about laying the right groundwork so the project runs smoothly. From clarifying how you want to use the space, to scheduling a site visit, to making sure local codes are addressed, there are important steps before any project begins. Taking time on the front end ensures your remodel stays on point, on budget and on schedule – and avoids unnecessary surprises.

A Great Conversation

All successful projects begin with a great conversation. For us, the conversation starts with the question, “How will the space be used?”  Or, said another way, “What’s the main purpose of the remodel? Family room, bedroom, office, combination?”  There may be secondary motivations, for sure, like hobbies or investment, but what is the primary purpose?  Understanding the main purpose drives the next steps of design, along with everything else.

On-site Visit

Next, we’ll want to schedule an on-site visit and continue the discussion.  An on-site visit establishes rapport, allows us to walk through and assess the space, and further clarify the vision, goals, and motivations for remodeling the basement.  We can also talk through potential challenges like local code requirements.

Identifying challenges helps us avoid mid-project surprises.  There are certainly stories of contractor’s springing a five-figure surprise in the middle of a project that an egress window must be put in. A surprise that could have been avoided through discussion up front.

Other challenges include code compliance issues, future needs like ensuring appliances and equipment can be moved into or out of the finished space, as well as solutions for concealing items like electrical panels, sump pumps, etc.  Ultimately, we want to deliver an outcome the client is pleased with.

A Path to a Proposal

From here, a couple of pathways develop for providing a quote.  First, we can provide a budgetary estimate of the project without a drawing.  But ultimately we need a design drawing to provide an accurate quote. 

McBride Construction supplies a technical drawing with no-strings attached.  We’ll schedule a second visit where a specialist comes out to a prospective client’s home. They’ll measure and go through the basement.  They’ll look at the structural and non-structural requirements that will show up in the drawing.

Benefits of a Technical Drawing

There are a number of benefits to a detailed drawing that we email a client. The drawing captures the layout, square footage, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing needs.  It provide a reference for an accurate bid that helps us stay within budget.  Depending on the location, the drawing may be submitted for approval as part of the permit application process.  As a side note, McBride Construction can provide optional 3D renderings of the drawing for an additional fee.

Code Requirements

Speaking of codes, the drawing and ultimately the quote, will reflect municipal requirements.  If a client lives within city limits, they are looking at some kind of inspection.  Code requirements vary by city and county. Examples of requirements includes egress windows, stairs, electrical, smoke detectors, fire safety, plumbing, and mechanical.

An Itemized Proposal

These steps lead us to providing an itemized proposal.  Many homeowners tell us they appreciate the transparency that comes from McBride because we itemize and separate materials and labor costs – including materials provided by the client.  With an approved project in hand, McBride can get started.  Usually, start to finish, a full basement remodel lasts four to six weeks, though a partial refinish may only take a few weeks.

Other Considerations for the Homeowner

There are a few other considerations a client should think about before starting a basement remodel. 

Financing.  Most folks don’t have disposable cash available for this type of project.  So homeowners will want to have this in place before starting.  McBride can help connect clients with financing partners if this of interest.

Insurance.  Homeowners should consider talking with their insurance provider about additional coverage they may need like sewer backup and other scenarios.

Stuff.  Finally many of us have “stuff” in our basement. Moving these items during the project can slow things down.  It certainly helps move the project along if the space is cleared and available.

 

Why Choose McBride Construction for your Basement Remodel

So, why choose McBride Construction for your basement remodel? At the end of the day, we want a happy client such that they can fully recommend McBride Construction to their friends and family.  That kind of recommendation only comes through delivering both tangible and intangible results for your project.  See this article for additional reasons on why you should choose McBride Construction to be your partner.

Are you ready to start your basement remodel?  If so, please call us at 636-293-2983. Or, submit your information through the contact us form.  We’d be glad to talk through your project and discuss how we can help.