Culp Home Improvement FAQs

Consider whether you need additional family room space, home office, guest bedroom, gym, playroom for the kids, home bar or entertainment area. The planned use will influence the layout, necessary fixtures, and overall cost. We can assist you with all your design needs.

The average cost to finish a basement varies based on size, materials, layout complexity, and location. Expect a wide range, with averages typically between $30k and 85k. A basic finish will cost less than a high-end one that includes a bathroom, wet bar, or home theater.

In most cases the initial estimate is free. There may be a charge if there is extensive design work required.

A finished basement can deliver an ROI of 70% to 90% by adding valuable living space and increasing your home’s resale value. The specific ROI depends on the quality of the finish and the local housing market. 

Depending on the complexity of the project it can range between 2 and 3 months on average.

Common solutions include installing a proper interior or exterior drainage system, sealing foundation cracks, and installing a sump pump. Most newer homes already include these items in place and in older homes these things can be added.

Almost always the answer is no. They are there for support and must stay in place. Changes can be made with a structural engineer when needed.

In most cases, yes. Permits are generally required for any significant structural, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work. Skipping a permit could lead to fines, problems selling your home, and voided insurance coverage. We will take care of all permits and inspections with the city and that is included in your estimate.

An egress window or door is a required emergency escape route for any finished living or sleeping space in the basement. The window must meet specific size and height requirements, and any window well must also meet size regulations. Most newer homes have the necessary egress in place. We can add an egress window if needed.

The minimum height for finished basement ceilings is typically 7 feet, though this can vary by location. Some areas also have minimum size requirements for rooms. This is not normally an issue on newer homes.

Building codes require smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home, including the basement. A detector is also needed outside each sleeping area. We will design your basement to meet all building codes.

While some parts of the project, like painting or installing shelves, can be DIY, finishing a basement is a complex task. It involves specialized electrical, plumbing, and framing work that is best left to an experienced, licensed contractor. As a general contractor we know what needs to be done and can communicate between the numerous trades involved to ensure the project runs smoothly and correctly.

You just did! But it never hurts to ask your friends and family for referrals for someone they may have worked with. Verify that contractors are properly licensed and insured. Check their portfolio for basement-specific experience and check for online reviews. Be cautious with online referral services, they don’t always offer the best candidates and may only offer contractors who subscribe or pay for their services.

Ask about their experience, whether they are licensed and insured, how they handle permits, estimated timeline, and their communication process. Make sure everything is detailed in a written contract. Our experience includes over 20 years in construction focusing on finishing basements. We are licensed and insured. We consistently work with the same trades people to ensure high quality and good communication. We provide a written contract with payment details, timelines and project details to ensure a transparent process.

We can add plenty of artificial light using recessed lighting or other light fixtures.

Materials like luxury vinyl plank (LVP), tile, and certain types of carpet are good options for basements. They are durable and stand up well to moisture better than hardwood or engineered flooring.

Open floor plans, and light-toned colors, can help a basement feel more expansive. You can use features like floating shelves and custom built-ins for storage without cluttering the space.

Adding a bathroom can increase your basement’s functionality and your home’s value. Most newer homes have planned for a bathroom and will have some of the bathroom drain work in place.

Des Moines Iowa and surrounding areas including Ankeny, Adel, Altoona, Bondurant, Clive, Grimes, Granger, Johnston, Polk City, Urbandale, Waukee, West Des Moines.

We are a small family-owned business with over 20 years in operation; The owner is present on every job to ensure quality and consistency. All work is guaranteed, and we are licensed and insured.