What is average cost to do an opening for a walkout basement?

1/15/2015 at 10:22:49 PM

Debora,

There is no "average price". The opening depends on what the structure is made of, (wood, concrete, combination) and other internal items such as wires, plumbing, structural support.

The exterior depends on the depth of excavation, the type of soil (clay, gravel, rock, sand, etc.), access to the location for removal, and a host of other considerations.

I would suggest contacting a local excavation company and a building inspector to get their opinion and estimate. The inspector can provide you with what is acceptable by "Building Code" and advise you of what permits are required. The contractor can provide you with an actual estimate and explain what has to be done and why.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Mark

1/16/2015 at 10:40:22 AM

Mark is right, there is not going to be an average price since each job is going to be unique regarding grading, foundation material, siding material, load bearing opening requirements.

For a general idea, when the job is pretty straight forward and does not require digging, we charge approximately $2500 for cut out and installation, plus the cost of the door.

Aaron Bates

1/16/2015 at 12:47:50 PM

Hi Debora

There have been a bunch of posts on this topic. If it is below grade, when I looked at it it was about $10,000.

There are tons of factors to consider before making a decision.

Cheers

John Kuehnl-Cadwell

Master Electrician

Datawise Solutions Inc

1/16/2015 at 7:08:03 PM

Hi Debora,

I do a lot of basement entrances. Yes the price can be from $14,000.00 to $17,000.00. Depends if the excavating machine can be used or not and if you have weeping tiles or you need sub pump. As you can see a lot of factors determine the price.

Steve

1/20/2015 at 7:23:39 AM

I agree generally with whats been said above by others so far, only adding to keep in mind you will need a drawing / design for your permit application (whether you excavate or not). Also, I'd check with the local building department before you spend any money though; be sure the entrance location has the allotted space for property lines and setbacks.

Good Luck!

-Paul