Basement Finishing
Questions about basement development, finishing, and conversions in Calgary
What's the permit process and cost to dig out a crawlspace basement in an old crescent heights bungalow?
Converting a crawlspace to a full basement in a Crescent Heights bungalow is a major structural project requiring multiple permits, engineering, and t...
What type of vapor barrier do I need for a basement renovation in Calgary clay soil with moisture?
For a basement renovation in Calgary's challenging clay soil conditions, you'll need a comprehensive moisture management system that goes beyond just...
Does anyone know a good contractor for infill basement underpinning in Inglewood that understands clay soil?
Yes, basement underpinning in Inglewood requires specialized expertise with Calgary's expansive clay soils, and you'll want a contractor experienced w...
How long after pouring a basement floor slab in Calgary should I wait before framing walls?
You should wait a minimum of 7 days after pouring a concrete basement floor slab before framing walls, though 14-28 days is ideal for optimal strength...
Is spray foam or batt insulation better for basement rim joists in minus 30 Calgary winters?
For Calgary's brutal -30°C winters, spray foam insulation is significantly better than batt insulation for basement rim joists. The rim joist area is...
How long do I have to file a builder's lien holdback claim after final payment on a basement development in Chestermere?
In Alberta, you have 60 days from the date of substantial completion to file a construction lien claim under the Prompt Payment and Construction Lien...
Do I need a separate gas line for a basement fireplace, or can I tap the main ENMAX line?
You'll need a separate gas line run from your home's gas meter to the basement fireplace location - you cannot tap into ENMAX electrical lines, and an...
Building a 500 sq ft studio suite in my basement in Altadore - does it need a separate HVAC system or can I tap into the main system?
You can typically tap into your existing HVAC system for a 500 sq ft basement suite, but you'll need proper engineering calculations and permits to en...
Should I install a sump pump in my developed basement even though Bowness never flooded in 2013?
Yes, you should strongly consider installing a sump pump in your Bowness basement, even though the area didn't flood in 2013. While Bowness was indeed...
What is the timeline to dig out a crawlspace and convert it to a full basement in a 1950s bungalow in Mount Royal?
Converting a crawlspace to a full basement in a 1950s Mount Royal bungalow is a major structural project that typically takes 3-6 months, depending on...
After the 2020 hailstorm, we replaced the roof. Now the basement has water stains. Did the roofer mess something up?
Water stains appearing in your basement after a roof replacement could indicate roofing issues, but the timing suggests this might be unrelated to you...
Should I insulate basement concrete walls from the inside or outside in a new build in McKenzie Towne?
For a new build in McKenzie Towne, exterior insulation is strongly recommended over interior insulation. Exterior basement wall insulation is the supe...
What size beam do I need to remove a load-bearing wall between basement rooms in a 1960s bungalow?
You'll need a structural engineer to determine the exact beam size, as this depends on your home's specific load conditions, span distance, and struct...
Does ENMAX charge extra to add a separate meter for a basement suite, or can you just split the bill?
ENMAX requires a separate meter for basement suites in Calgary, and yes, there are additional costs involved. You cannot simply "split the bill" from...
What is the best flooring for finished basements in Calgary that can handle moisture from clay soil shifting?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are the best flooring choices for Calgary basements, as they're completely waterproof and can hand...
What is the timeline to frame and finish a walkout basement in the Seton new community build?
A walkout basement frame and finish in Seton typically takes 8-12 weeks from start to completion, depending on the scope of work, finishes selected, a...
Can I turn my unfinished basement into a legal secondary suite in Signal Hill with R-CG zoning?
Yes, you can likely convert your unfinished basement into a legal secondary suite in Signal Hill under Calgary's R-CG zoning, but you'll need to meet...
What is the best insulation for basement walls in Calgary with clay soil moisture issues?
For Calgary's challenging clay soil conditions, closed-cell spray foam insulation is your best choice for basement walls, providing both superior mois...
We added a basement suite in Lake Bonavista, and the rent covers most of our mortgage now. Wish we'd done it years ago?
That's fantastic - basement suites are one of the smartest investments Calgary homeowners can make, and Lake Bonavista is a perfect area for rental in...
Does adding a wet bar to a finished basement require a separate plumbing permit in Calgary?
Yes, adding a wet bar to a finished basement in Calgary requires a separate plumbing permit if you're installing new water supply lines, drain lines,...