Our Basement Renovation Progress

At SJE Contracting, we believe in transforming every part of a home into a space that reflects both function and beauty. One of the most undervalued spaces in any house is the basement. Often overlooked and used for storage or utilities, a basement holds the potential to become an integral part of your living environment. In this blog, we walk you through our recent basement renovation project—from concept to completion—to give you a detailed look at what goes into a quality basement reno.

Why Renovate Your Basement?

There are several reasons why homeowners opt for basement renovation:

Increased Living Space: Whether it’s a family lounge, home gym, guest suite, or office, a finished basement adds functional square footage to your home.
Boost in Property Value: A well-renovated basement can significantly increase resale value.
Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation and layout can lead to better heating and cooling efficiency.

For this project, our clients envisioned a cozy, multi-purpose area complete with entertainment, work-from-home capabilities, and ample storage.

Initial Consultation & Planning

As professional basement renovators, our first step is always understanding the client’s needs. We began with a detailed consultation to assess the existing basement conditions, discuss goals, and identify potential challenges. We reviewed their expectations and walked them through:

Budget considerations
Permit requirements
Design preferences
Basement benching as a structural solution

Basement benching came into play early in this project. The existing ceiling height was too low for comfort, but underpinning was beyond budget. Benching allowed us to safely lower the floor while reinforcing the foundation walls, providing the necessary headroom and structural integrity.

Design & Layout

Once the client approved the initial proposal, our design team created a layout that optimized every square foot of space. The final plan included:

An open-concept family room with custom media cabinetry
A guest bedroom with closet space
A full bathroom with modern fixtures
A compact home office nook
Dedicated storage areas with built-in shelving

We used software-generated 3D visuals to give the homeowners a clear view of how the space would look upon completion.

Construction Phase

This is where the real transformation begins. Our construction process followed a carefully planned timeline to ensure efficiency and transparency. Here’s a breakdown of the key phases:

Demolition and Clean-Up

We removed outdated paneling, flooring, and old insulation. This phase also included correcting prior DIY work and bringing everything up to code.

Structural Work and Benching

Implementing basement benching was a priority. We carefully excavated around the basement perimeter and constructed a reinforced bench, effectively increasing ceiling height without compromising foundation integrity.

Framing and Insulation

We framed the rooms according to the new layout and installed spray foam insulation to enhance energy efficiency and moisture resistance.

Plumbing and Electrical

New plumbing lines were run for the bathroom and laundry area. Electrical updates included energy-efficient lighting, ample outlets, and designated circuits for media and work zones.

Flooring and Drywall

We chose luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring—durable, moisture-resistant, and stylish. Drywall installation and smooth finishes helped bring the design to life.

Painting and Finishes

The color scheme combined soft neutrals with bold accents, making the space feel bright and modern. Final touches included trim, doors, and fixtures.

Before and After: The Transformation

This basement went from a dim, cluttered area to a bright, welcoming extension of the home. The transformation was dramatic and deeply satisfying for both our team and the homeowners. We documented each phase to create a basement renovation before and after portfolio, which will be showcased on our website.

The final result features:

A modern media wall with ambient lighting
Sleek bathroom with floating vanity and glass shower
A tranquil home office setup with natural lighting
Hidden storage integrated seamlessly into the design

Benefits Realized

Beyond aesthetics, the renovated basement offered several tangible benefits:

Increased usable living space
Improved energy efficiency
Enhanced resale value
Better moisture and air control

The homeowners now enjoy a multifunctional space that serves their growing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is basement benching, and when is it necessary?

Basement benching is a method to increase basement ceiling height by lowering the floor and reinforcing the foundation with a ledge or “bench.” It’s often used when full underpinning is too costly or impractical.

How long does a basement renovation typically take?

Timelines vary based on size and scope, but most projects range from 6 to 10 weeks. This includes planning, permits, construction, and finishing touches.

Can I customize the layout during a basement reno?

Absolutely. At SJE Contracting, we tailor every renovation to the client’s needs—from open-concept family rooms to home gyms and guest suites.

Conclusion

Basement renovations are one of the most effective ways to increase your home’s functionality and value. Our recent project is a testament to what thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship can achieve. Whether you’re considering a small refresh or a complete transformation with features like basement benching, SJE Contracting is here to help.

From planning and layout to construction and finishing, we ensure every detail is executed to the highest standards. Let us help you turn your basement into a space you love.