Basement Finishing in Asheville, NC
Since 2013, we have finished basements throughout Buncombe County. Rec rooms, home offices, guest suites, and legal rental units. We handle the moisture challenges, radon concerns, and egress requirements that come with mountain construction.
We are a licensed North Carolina general contractor with an A+ BBB rating. Every basement we finish includes proper moisture mitigation, radon testing, and vapor barriers behind walls. These steps cost more upfront but prevent the mold and water damage that ruin finished basements in mountain climates.
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⭐ 4.8/5 (50+ Reviews) | 500+ Projects | NADRA Certified | A+ BBB Rating
What Makes Basement Finishing in Asheville Different
Finishing a basement in Asheville is not the same as finishing one in Raleigh or Charlotte. Our mountains create challenges that flatland contractors never face.
Moisture is the main issue.
Asheville averages 47 inches of rain per year. That water pushes against basement walls from the outside (hydrostatic pressure) and condenses on cool surfaces inside. We install drainage systems, vapor barriers, and dehumidification before we frame a single wall.
Radon levels are elevated.
Western North Carolina sits on granite that releases radon gas. The EPA estimates that 1 in 4 homes in our region have elevated radon levels. We test before finishing and install mitigation systems when needed. This is not optional. It affects your health and your resale value.
Hillside homes have walkout basements.
Many Asheville properties sit on slopes that create natural walkout basements with grade-level access and daylight. These basements make excellent rental units or in-law suites. We maximize what the terrain gives you.
Older homes have low ceilings.
Many basements in Montford, Kenilworth, and other established Asheville neighborhoods have 7-foot ceilings or l
What Asheville Homeowners Say About Our Basement Work
How We Finish Basements in Asheville
Step 1: Inspection and Quote
We inspect your basement for moisture issues, measure ceiling heights, note mechanical systems, and discuss your goals. Within one week, you receive a detailed written quote. No surprises.
Step 2: Design and Permits
We create a layout that maximizes your space, then handle Buncombe County permit applications. Bedrooms require egress windows. Bathrooms require plumbing permits. We know the requirements.
Step 3: Moisture and Radon Prep
Before framing, we address moisture and radon. This might mean interior drainage systems, vapor barriers, or radon mitigation piping. Skipping this step leads to mold and failed inspections.
Step 4: Framing and Systems
Walls go up, insulation goes in, electrical and plumbing get roughed in. HVAC gets extended or zoned for the new space.
Step 5: Finishing
Drywall, flooring, trim, paint, and fixtures. We leave you with a space that looks like it was always part of the house.
Step 6: Final Walkthrough
We walk through together and confirm everything meets your expectations before final payment.
Why Asheville Homeowners Choose Pegram Builders
Licensed NC General Contractor
We carry $2M liability coverage and workers compensation for all crew members. Your home is protected.
Zero Failed Inspections
We have pulled over 500 permits in Buncombe County since 2013. We know what inspectors look for and what passes the first time.
Moisture Expertise
We have finished basements in Asheville for over a decade. We know which moisture solutions work in our climate and which ones fail within a few years.
Fixed-Price Contracts
What we quote is what you pay. No change orders unless you change the scope. No surprises at the end.
A+ BBB Rating
Accredited with the Better Business Bureau since 2015. Our A+ rating reflects transparent pricing and responsive service
Asheville Basement Finishing FAQs
Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Asheville?
Yes. Any habitable space requires permits and inspections in Buncombe County. Bedrooms require egress windows. Bathrooms require plumbing permits. We handle all applications and inspections.
How long does basement finishing take in Asheville?
Most basement finishing projects take 6-12 weeks depending on scope. A simple rec room finishes faster than a full apartment with plumbing. Add 2-4 weeks for permits before construction starts.
What about moisture and water issues?
We assess moisture before quoting. Existing water intrusion needs to be solved before finishing. We do not drywall over moisture problems. That leads to mold and failed inspections.
Should I test for radon before finishing my basement?
Yes. We include radon testing in our process. If levels are elevated (common in Asheville), we install a mitigation system before closing up walls. This is standard practice for us.
Can I add a bedroom to my basement?
Yes, if you install an egress window. Code requires a window large enough to escape through in an emergency. We cut and install egress windows that meet Buncombe County requirements.
Will finishing my basement add home value?
Yes. Finished square footage typically returns 70-75% of investment at resale, and you get to use the space in the meantime. A legal ADU can generate rental income that pays for itself.
What areas of Asheville do you serve?
We serve all of Buncombe County: Asheville, North Asheville, West Asheville, South Asheville, Montford, Kenilworth, Biltmore Forest, Weaverville, Black Mountain, Swannanoa, Fairview, Arden, and Woodfin.
Areas We Serve
Based in Asheville, NC. We finish garages across Asheville, Buncombe County, and Western NC. If you are within about 45 minutes of Asheville, we can help.
Service Areas
Asheville Neighborhoods:
North Asheville, West Asheville, South Asheville, Downtown Asheville, Montford, Kenilworth, Biltmore Forest, Grove Park, Riverside
Buncombe County Towns:
Weaverville, Black Mountain, Swannanoa, Fairview, Arden, Woodfin, Candler, Leicester, Enka
Nearby Counties:
Henderson County, Haywood County, Madison County, McDowell County
Get a Free Asheville Basement Quote
Ready to finish your Asheville basement? We will inspect your space, assess moisture conditions, and give you a detailed written quote.
No pressure. No obligation. If you decide not to move forward, that is perfectly fine.