Looking for cost idea on putting door and stairs to basement through existing closet.
Gerry, many things must be looked at when considering adding a new basement access through an existing floor.
The first thing that needs to be thoroughly reviewed is the floor framing (joists and beams) in the area which the opening will be created. More often than not this will require the involvement of a structural engineer to ensure that the opening does not compromise the integrity of the floor system of your home. Do not be discouraged from having an engineer look at and provide you with guidance, in most markets you can find an engineer who specializes in residential wood frame construction. The cost should be less than $500 for this service (depending on complications of course).
The next consideration needs to be what, if any, utility and or electrical lines pass through the area where this stairwell is being considered. In some cases the relocating of these utilities can be more costly than the actual staircase itself.
Once both of these items mentioned above are considered, and the area is considered suitable, the cost of actually constructing the stairwell and doorway should be in the range of $2500- $3500 for an unfinished straight run wood stair (incl. demo, framing, drywall repairs, door, millwork and stair handrail).
I hope this helps.
Les Yochim
BelVan Construction
Edmonton, Alberta
Hi Gerry!
Almost impossible to give you any numbers without seeing existing condition, this can two thousand and it can be 5 thousand. I think this is the wrong way to approach this, you should of have few contractors come by and give you firm quote, then you will know exactly what the cost is.
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