Basement Finishing in Western North Carolina
That unfinished space under your house is not just storage. It is square footage you already own. A finished basement adds much-needed value and living space, whether you need a home office, guest suite, entertainment room, or rental income.
Pegram Builders has been helping homeowners expand their living square footage for over 12 years.
⭐ 4.8/5 (50+ Reviews) | 500+ Projects | NADRA Certified | A+ BBB Rating
How We Finish Basements Differently
Finishing a basement in Western NC is not the same as finishing one in the Piedmont. Our mountains bring specific challenges:
Moisture Management – Basements in WNC see hydrostatic pressure, condensation, and humidity that flatland homes never deal with. We install proper vapor barriers, drainage systems, and dehumidification before finishing. Skipping this step ruins drywall and breeds mold.
Radon Mitigation – Western NC has elevated radon levels. We test before finishing and install mitigation systems when needed. This is not optional—it is a health issue and affects resale.
Ceiling Height Solutions – Older homes often have low basement ceilings. We work around ductwork, plumbing, and beams to maximize headroom. Sometimes that means rerouting mechanicals; sometimes it means creative ceiling designs.
Egress Requirements – Bedrooms need emergency escape windows. We cut and install egress windows that meet code, including the window wells and drainage that mountain slopes require.
These details do not show up on a quote line item. But they show up in whether your finished basement stays dry and passes inspection.
Our Basement Finishing Process
1. Free Estimate & Assessment
We inspect your basement for moisture issues, measure ceiling heights, note mechanicals, and discuss your goals. You get a detailed written quote with no pressure.
2. Design & Permits
We create a layout that maximizes your space, then handle permit applications. Bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens each have code requirements we know how to meet.
3. Prep Work
Moisture mitigation, radon systems, and rough-in for electrical and plumbing. This is the foundation of a basement that lasts.
4. Framing & Systems
Walls go up, insulation goes in, electrical and plumbing get finished. HVAC gets extended or zoned for the new space.
5. Finishing
Drywall, flooring, trim, paint, and fixtures. We leave you with a space that looks like it was always part of the house.
6. Final Walkthrough
We walk through together and make sure everything meets your expectations before we call it done.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basement Finishing
How much does it cost to finish a basement?
It depends on size, scope, and existing conditions. Basic finishing (framing, drywall, flooring, lighting) runs $30–$50 per square foot. Add a bathroom and costs increase. A full basement apartment with kitchen, bathroom, and separate entrance runs $75–$100+ per square foot. Moisture issues or low ceilings add prep costs. We give free detailed estimates so you know exactly what your project costs.
How long does basement finishing take?
Most basement finishing projects take six to twelve weeks depending on scope. A simple open rec room finishes faster than a full apartment with plumbing. Permitting adds two to four weeks before construction starts.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement?
Yes. Any habitable space requires permits and inspections. Bedrooms need egress windows. Bathrooms need proper plumbing permits. We handle all permit applications and inspections.
What about moisture and water issues?
We assess moisture before quoting. Existing water intrusion needs to be solved before finishing—either through exterior waterproofing, interior drainage systems, or both. We do not finish over moisture problems; that leads to mold and failed inspections.
Can I add a bathroom to my basement?
Usually, yes. If your main sewer line is below the basement floor, gravity drains work. If not, we install an ejector pump system. We handle all plumbing permits and inspections.
Will finishing my basement add home value?
Yes. Finished square footage generally adds value to your property since home prices are often calculated by price/squarefoot. Also, a legal ADU can generate rental income that pays for itself.
What about radon?
We test before finishing. If levels are elevated (common in WNC), we install a mitigation system before closing up walls. This is standard practice for us.
Areas We Serve
Based in Asheville, NC. We finish basements across Western North Carolina. If you are within about 45 minutes of Asheville, we can help.
Service Areas
Buncombe County
Asheville | Weaverville | Black Mountain | Swannanoa | Fairview | Arden | Candler | Woodfin | Leicester
Haywood County: Waynesville | Canton | Clyde | Maggie Valley
Henderson County: Hendersonville | Fletcher | Mills River | Flat Rock | Etowah
Start Your Basement Project
We will come to your property, look at the site, hear what you're hoping for, and give you a written estimate. No charge, no obligation, no pressure.