The drywall plays a huge role in transforming an unfinished basement into a functional and comfortable space. This guide covers the cost of drywall in a basement, what influences pricing, and ways to cut expenses. You’ll also find tips for DIY projects and alternative materials.
You’ll know how to budget for your basement drywall project and make smart choices, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional.
Average Cost to Drywall a Basement
Drywalling a basement depends on several factors, but the price generally falls between $1.50 and $7 per square foot. This range covers standard drywall materials and installation.
The lower end of the scale typically includes basic drywall without special features. The higher end includes drywall with added benefits, like moisture or sound resistance.
For a 1,000-square-foot basement, you can expect the total project cost to range from $5,000 to $10,500. This estimate includes both materials and labor. The price will rise if you want extra features, like soundproof or moisture-resistant drywall.
These special types of drywall are often used in basements to prevent mold or reduce noise, which can be useful for turning the space into a home theater or music room.
For high-end projects that involve premium materials and complex finishes, the total cost could climb up to $18,500 or more. This might include drywalling the ceiling, adding custom textures, or using advanced insulation.
Remember that labor costs can vary depending on your location, and extra details like curved walls or high ceilings can also increase the price.
Cost Factors That Affect Drywalling a Basement
Several factors influence how much it will cost to drywall a basement. These aspects help you plan your budget more effectively and decide where you can save.
Drywall Type
The type of drywall you choose impacts cost. Standard drywall, the most affordable option, typically costs $0.40 to $0.65 per square foot but offers no protection against moisture or sound.
In basements, moisture-resistant drywall, or green board, is recommended to prevent mold. However, it’s pricier at $2 to $4.50 per square foot.
For sound control, soundproof drywall can cost up to $90 per panel, making it ideal for home theaters or music rooms. Fire-resistant drywall is another option, used mainly for areas with mechanical rooms.
Choosing the right drywall impacts both cost and performance.
Size and Complexity of the Basement
Basement size directly impacts drywalling costs. Larger spaces require more materials and labor, increasing overall expenses.
Complex layouts also raise costs. Basements with multiple rooms, corners, or high ceilings need precise cutting and more labor, making them harder to finish than simple, open spaces. Taller ceilings may require extra seams and ladders, further boosting labor expenses.
Labor Costs
Labor is a major expense in drywall projects, typically costing $50 to $90 per hour or $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot for installation and finishing. The final cost depends on the finish level, ranging from Level 0 to Level 5.
- Level 0 is the cheapest, with drywall attached but no finishing, costing $0.20 to $0.60 per square foot.
- Levels 1 and 2 involve taping and mudding, adding $0.60 to $1.40 per square foot.
- Level 3 adds sanding, while Level 4 provides a smooth, paint-ready surface, costing $0.80 to $2.00.
- Level 5 offers the highest-quality finish, with a final smoothing layer, at $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot.
Additional Costs to Consider
When drywalling a basement, extra costs can impact your overall budget.
Framing Costs
Before installing drywall, framing is essential to provide a sturdy structure for the drywall sheets. It involves using wood or metal studs to create a skeleton for the walls. Framing usually ranges from $2.20 to $3.00 per square foot, depending on the materials used​.
Basements with additional walls, windows, or doors increase framing complexity and cost. For instance, more windows and doors require supplementary framing to support them, adding material and labor costs.
If your basement has multiple rooms or intricate layouts, expect framing costs to rise accordingly.
Ceiling Drywall
Drywalling the ceiling of a basement also adds to the total cost. Ceiling drywall installation typically costs $2.25 to $3.35 per square foot, based on the type of drywall and the complexity of the ceiling.
For finishing, there are two main options:
A textured finish is faster and cheaper, often applied by spraying joint compounds and leaving a bumpy texture. This method costs less labor but isn’t as polished.
A smooth finish requires multiple coats of joint compound, sanding, and priming, which takes more time and labor, making it more expensive​. Homeowners often choose smooth finishes for a cleaner look, but textured finishes can hide imperfections more easily.
Moisture Control and Insulation
Basements are prone to moisture issues, so installing moisture barriers and insulation is important. Adding a vapor barrier behind the drywall helps prevent water from seeping into the walls, which can lead to mold and structural damage.
Installing vapor barriers or using treated lumber can add $1 to $2 per square foot to your project​.
Additionally, proper insulation improves energy efficiency and comfort in the basement. Insulating the walls and ceiling will cost extra but pays off in reduced energy bills and a more livable space.
Moisture-resistant insulation is often recommended for basements, protecting your drywall from dampness.
Tips to Reduce Drywalling Costs
Drywalling a basement can be expensive, but there are several ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality.
Choose Standard Drywall When Possible
If moisture isn’t a concern in your basement, consider using standard drywall instead of more expensive specialty options. Moisture-resistant drywall is important in damp areas, but if your basement is well-ventilated and dry, standard drywall will work fine and cost significantly less.
DIY for Smaller Tasks
You can save on labor by tackling smaller tasks yourself. Painting the drywall is a common DIY project, which can help you avoid paying for professional painters. You could also think of installing drop ceilings, which are easier to set up than drywall ceilings and provide easy access to pipes and wiring.
However, assessing whether you have the time and skills to do the job well is important. Poor-quality DIY work could end up costing more to fix.
Get Multiple Contractor Estimates
Before committing to any contractor, it’s a good idea to get multiple estimates. Prices can vary widely depending on the contractor, experience, and location.
By comparing quotes, you can analyze you get competitive project pricing. Also, make sure to check reviews and references to confirm the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.
Drywall Alternatives for Basement Finishing
When finishing a basement, drywall isn’t your only option. Several alternative materials can give you different looks, better durability, or lower costs. Here are some popular alternatives to drywall:
Plywood
Plywood is a budget-friendly option that many homeowners choose for basement walls. It consists of thin layers of wood glued together, creating a sturdy panel. It is easy to install and gives a basement a rustic or natural look.
It’s relatively cheap and easy to work with. You can stain or paint it, and it can even act as an insulator.
Plywood is not very moisture-resistant. In a damp basement, it could warp or rot over time, which makes it less durable than drywall.
Veneer Plaster
Veneer plaster offers a stronger and more durable surface than drywall. This material involves applying a thin layer of plaster over a base, providing a smooth, hard finish that resists dents and scratches.
It’s tougher than drywall and creates a sleek, high-end finish. It’s also moisture-resistant, making it suitable for basements prone to humidity.
Veneer plaster is more expensive than drywall, and installation requires skill, so you might need a professional, which increases labor costs.
Textured Wall Panels
Textured wall panels are another alternative, often made from plastic or paperboard, designed to give walls a unique 3D effect. These panels can create an artistic and modern look in your basement and come in various designs.
They’re lightweight, easy to install and offer a decorative look without needing extra painting or finishing. They can also hide imperfections on your walls.
In humid conditions, they are prone to damage and are less durable than drywall, making them less suitable for wet basements.
FAQs
Can I drywall my basement myself?
You can drywall your basement, but it requires skill and proper tools. DIY drywall installation can save labor costs, typically ranging from $50 to $90 per hour for professionals. However, drywalling can be labor-intensive, involving cutting, hanging, taping, mudding, and sanding.
If you have basic home improvement skills, DIY could help reduce costs, especially for smaller tasks like painting the walls or handling simpler layouts. However, more complex features, like high ceilings or multiple corners, may be challenging for beginners.
Mistakes could lead to additional repairs, so consider your experience level before taking on the project.
