Basement Finishing

Before finishing: fix the moisture

That's rule #1 and we never deviate. Finishing a damp basement creates perfect conditions for mould behind the drywall. We start with a relative humidity assessment, check the foundations, yard drainage, and gutter condition. If the moisture source isn't resolved, we don't put up drywall.

For homes with stone or concrete-block foundations typical of Greater Montreal, we recommend rigid panel insulation (XPS) on the interior side with integrated vapour barrier, rather than fibreglass batts that hold moisture.

Building code requirements for a livable basement

Minimum 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) clear height for a code-compliant bedroom. Egress windows required for bedrooms: minimum 0.35 m² opening with 380 mm minimum dimension. Smoke and CO detectors at each level. Minimum thermal insulation per provincial code.

We obtain all required permits and work with City inspectors to ensure the work is compliant. No under-the-table renovation that forces you to redo everything when you sell.

What we build

Additional bedroom with egress window. Three-piece bathroom (shower, sink, toilet). Closed office or open workspace. Media room or rec room. Relocated or upgraded laundry. Full suite with private entrance if the lot allows. We adapt to your space plan and priorities.

Budget

Complete finishing of an 800 sq ft basement (insulation, framing, drywall, flooring, electrical, paint): $35,000–$55,000. With bathroom and code-compliant bedroom: $50,000–$75,000.