Basement Lowering in Toronto: Can You Do It Yourself?

Basement lowering can expand living space, increase resale value and air quality, but requires expertise. Risks of DIY include structural damage and legal issues. Hire a professional for a safer and efficient process. Costs vary and finding reputable contractors can be done through referrals and research.

What is Basement Lowering?

If you’re seeking to expand your living space but are constrained by your basement’s ceiling height, you might consider basement lowering as an option. With basement lowering, also known as underpinning, the existing basement floor is excavated and lowered to increase the ceiling height, reinforcing the foundation and footings to ensure the home’s structural integrity. Homeowners can then gain several extra feet of headroom, making the space more functional and valuable.

Advantages of Basement Lowering.

By adding living space, basement lowering can increase the square footage of your home, raising your home’s resale value and making it a sound investment. Additionally, increasing ventilation and natural light in the space can enhance air quality. However, it is not a simple or easy process and requires specialized knowledge and expertise. A professional basement lowering contractor will have the tools, equipment, and expertise to safely excavate and reinforce the foundation, ensuring that the work is done correctly and safely.

Risks of DIY Lowering Basement in Toronto.

While basement lowering can be a DIY project, undertaking this project without proper expertise, equipment, and safety procedures carries several risks. The excavation process can be hazardous, and the risk of collapse or cave-ins is high without adequate safety measures. Improper reinforcement of the foundation and footings can lead to structural damage and expensive repairs, while inadequate waterproofing can cause moisture infiltration, mould, and mildew growth and compromise indoor air quality. Undertaking DIY basement lowering without proper permits and inspections can result in legal issues and fines.

When to Hire a Professional?

If you lack the specialized knowledge and expertise required for basement lowering, it is best to hire a professional. Excavating a basement can be dangerous work, and a professional contractor will have the proper equipment and safety procedures to ensure the work is done safely. If your home has any structural issues, such as cracks in the foundation or settling, a professional contractor will be able to address these issues as part of the basement lowering process. Basement lowering can be a time-consuming process, and a professional contractor will be able to complete the work more efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your new living space sooner.

The Costs of DIY Basement Lowering.

The cost of basement lowering can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size of the basement, the extent of excavation and reinforcement required, and your location. On average, basement lowering can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000 or more. While DIY basement lowering may seem like a cost-effective way to add living space to your home, hiring a professional basement lowering contractor ensures that the work is done safely and correctly, with the proper permits and inspections. The investment in hiring a professional is worthwhile and can increase your home’s value and enhance your family’s quality of life.

Finding Basement Lowering Contractor in Toronto.

To find a reputable basement lowering contractor, you can ask for referrals from friends and family, research online, and check with your local building authority to ensure they are properly licensed and insured. The timeline for completing a basement lowering project can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the basement, the extent of excavation and reinforcement required, and your location. On average, the process can take anywhere from four to eight weeks or more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, basement lowering can add valuable living space to your home, increase its resale value, and enhance your family’s quality of life. However, it is not a simple or easy process and requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Undertaking DIY basement lowering carries several risks, including safety hazards, structural damage, and legal issues. Hiring a professional basement lowering contractor ensures that the work is done safely and correctly, with the proper permits and inspections, making it a worthwhile investment.

Denis Smal

Ontario College of Trades Degree in Plumbing. Master Plumber & Building Renovator Toronto License. Educated in Building Foundations & Underground Water Behavior. 15+ Years of experience in Basement Underpinning, Waterproofing, Flood Prevention, Plumbing and Drain.