Finishing a basement in the Des Moines area typically costs $58,000 to $61,000 for a standard living space, and can exceed $100,000 when adding a bathroom, wet bar, or egress window. The project usually takes 6 to 12 weeks depending on scope and whether waterproofing or structural work is needed first.
Why Homeowners Finish Their Basements
An unfinished basement is one of the most cost-effective ways to add livable square footage without the expense of a home addition. Common reasons Des Moines homeowners finish their basements include:
- Creating a family room, home theater, or game room
- Adding a guest suite or income-producing rental space
- Building a home office or gym
- Adding a bathroom to support a growing household
- Increasing overall home resale value
What Affects Basement Finishing Cost
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
| Waterproofing/moisture control | Required first if there’s any history of dampness or seepage |
| Egress window addition | Adds cost but is required if the space includes a bedroom |
| Bathroom addition | One of the largest cost increases due to plumbing work |
| Ceiling height | Low ceilings may require creative framing or floor solutions |
| Flooring choice | Moisture-resistant flooring (LVP, tile) costs more than standard options but performs better below grade |
The Basement Finishing Process
- Assessment: Our Remodeling Contractors team evaluates moisture, structural elements, ceiling height, and existing mechanicals (HVAC, water heater, sump pump) that need to be worked around or relocated.
- Design: Layout, lighting, and finish selections are planned around load-bearing walls, support columns, and utility access points.
- Permitting: Electrical, plumbing, and egress work generally require permits from the local municipality.
- Framing and rough-in: Walls, electrical, and plumbing are installed before insulation and drywall.
- Finishing: Flooring, trim, paint, fixtures, and final details complete the space.
Common Basement Finishing Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping a moisture assessment before finishing, trapped moisture behind drywall leads to mold
- Choosing flooring that isn’t moisture-tolerant for a below-grade space
- Underestimating lighting needs in a space with limited natural light
- Forgetting to plan around existing sump pumps, furnaces, or water heaters
- Not adding an egress window when a bedroom is part of the plan (often required by code)
FAQ
How much does it cost to finish a basement in Des Moines, Iowa?
Most basement finishing projects in the Des Moines metro cost between $58,000 to $61,000, with bathrooms, wet bars, and egress windows pushing costs higher.
Do I need an egress window to finish my basement?
If the finished space will include a bedroom, most Iowa building codes require an egress window or door for emergency exit access.
How long does it take to finish a basement?
A standard basement finishing project takes roughly 6 to 12 weeks, depending on scope, permitting timelines, and whether waterproofing is required beforehand.
What flooring is best for a finished basement?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile are popular choices because they resist moisture better than carpet or hardwood in below-grade spaces.
To explore more LVP flooring options from Good Housekeeping, Click here!
Does finishing a basement add resale value?
Yes, a finished basement adds usable square footage and typically improves resale value, though the return varies based on quality of finish and local market conditions.
Remodeling Contractors has finished basements throughout the Des Moines metro for more than 40 years, handling waterproofing, egress, plumbing, and design in-house through one full-service design-build team. Contact us to schedule a basement assessment.