Expanding the size of your home can be as easy as remodeling existing space that’s often used for storage: The basement.

Clair Boring, who’s been doing painting and other services in Butler for 46 years, said the key to beginning any basement remodeling project is ensuring the space is dry.

Once moisture issues are resolved, and permits, if applicable, are obtained to finish the basement, there are many refinishing options.

“Normally, what you have is a finished basement with rock wells, cement floors, just the way it was built. and from there, you add rooms, put partitions up, install doors, insulate the exterior walls. Usually, the exterior walls are framed. Moisture barriers installed,” Boring said.

He’s seen remodeling jobs cost as little as $3,000 and as much as $20,000. Of course, the prices are based on many variables, especially how big the space is, what kind of flooring is used, whether there is built-in baseboard or floor heating, and other options.

“Probably the main thing is whether it adds to the square footage of the house. If you got extra square footage, that’s what some people are looking for,” Boring said.

The options become even more numerous when it comes to flooring options.

Jim Rodgers, general manager at Butler Floor and Carpet, said carpeting can be as affordable as $5 per square foot installed, while nicer wood flooring can run a homeowner $16 to $18 per square foot.

Frieze carpeting is particularly popular. The soft carpeting is known for its curly finish, like a modern shag.

“It’s one of the hottest items out there right now,” Rodgers said.

He said nylon carpeting does better with wear and tear, too. And for use during the winter, in-floor heating installation has become more popular, especially with naturally cold flooring like tile.

Oftentimes, heated basement floors are installed as soon as the concrete is put down, with heated tubing.

However, homeowners now have the option to do it as an “after market plan.”

In addition to flooring, Butler Floor and Carpet often installs acoustical drop ceilings and window treatments, like blinds and curtains to complete the homeowner’s remodeling plan.