When finishing a basement, the ceiling selection will affect the overall cost of the project. According to Remodeling Magazine, the average cost of finishing a basement is just more than $51,000. Saving money while finishing the basement ceiling can make a significant difference in your budget.
You best overall option for a basement space is a drop ceiling. According to costhelper.com, you can expect to pay $2 to $5 per square foot to have a drop ceiling installed. You can use 2 inch by 2 inch or 2 inch by 4 inch panels. There are a wide variety of textures and patterns available on the panels which can add flare and style to your living space. If you have overhead plumbing, electrical wires and ductwork, a drop ceiling has several advantages. You can install the ceiling below the obstructions and eliminate the need to relocate them. A drop ceiling will also allow access to these items should the need arise.
Sheetrock Ceiling
One of the least expensive in materials is a Sheetrock (drywall) ceiling. You should use 1/4 inch Sheetrock and install it using screws rather than nails. A Sheetrock ceiling will conceal the clutter often associated with a basement ceiling and will be the most sturdy of the three options. A Sheetrock ceiling is also far easier to repaint should you decide on a new color scheme. The Sheetrock ceiling will give the feeling of quality and value come resale time.
Painted Ceiling
If your overhead area is very clean (free of wires and ugly ductwork) you can spray paint the entire ceiling, adding a rough texture to the paint to add an acoustic property. The texture will also take away from the blandness of a solid color. A painted ceiling also allows access to ductwork and plumbing and will be your most cost effective option. Painted floor joists, piping and ductwork is not for everyone, but the rough look does have its fans. Before making any final remodel decisions, you should consider how the decisions and choices you are making will affect your resale value.
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