When renovating your home, one common question is how much to drywall a basement.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot for materials and labor. This estimate covers standard drywall sheets, basic finishing, and installation.
For a typical 1,000-foot basement, costs range from $1,500 to $3,500. However, projects that include premium finishes or moisture-resistant drywall can push the total higher. Using good materials can improve the basement's strength. This also makes it a more comfortable place to live.
✅ Practical Tip: Before requesting an estimate, measure your basement’s square footage. Accurate measurements give contractors like A2Z Construction a clearer idea of project scope and help avoid unexpected costs.
The total cost often includes both walls and ceilings. While drywalling walls is straightforward, ceilings can involve additional steps like framing and utility access.
The drywall basement ceiling cost ranges from $1.50 to $3.80 per square foot. This varies based on the ceiling type—standard drywall ceilings are more affordable, while drop ceilings or suspended ceilings cost more but allow easier access to pipes and wiring.
David Haziza, owner and master of construction at A2Z Construction, advises homeowners to consider moisture-resistant or fire-resistant materials for ceilings, especially in basements prone to humidity.
✅ Practical Tip: Installing a drop ceiling might cost more upfront but can save money on future repairs by providing quick access to utilities.
The cost to sheetrock a basement depends on the combination of materials, labor, and finishing. A typical breakdown looks like this:
This brings the total drywalling costs to approximately $1.85–$4.60 per square foot, depending on project complexity and material choice.
✅ Practical Tip: Opt for moisture-resistant drywall sheets in areas near laundry units or sump pumps to prevent water damage.
For a 1,000 sq ft basement, you can expect a total cost between $1,850 and $4,600. This estimate includes drywall installation for walls and ceilings, along with basic taping and finishing.
✅ Example: A Bergen County homeowner hired A2Z Construction for a 1,000 sq ft basement remodel project in NJ. Their costs included moisture-resistant drywall and Level 4 finishing, bringing the total to approximately $4,100.
For larger basements, installing drywall in 2,000 sq ft of space can range from $3,700 to $9,200. This estimate varies based on design features like soffits, built-in shelving, or recessed lighting, which increase labor complexity.
A complete basement finish—including framing, drywall installation, and ceiling work—may cost $35,000 to $50,000. This figure includes high-quality finishes, moisture barriers, and upgraded lighting fixtures for a fully livable space.
Framing provides essential structural support before drywall installation. For a 1,500 sq ft basement, framing alone typically ranges from $10,500 to $24,000.
✅ Practical Tip: When discussing framing with your contractor, ask if they recommend adding insulation during this phase. Doing so can improve energy efficiency and soundproofing for the finished basement.
While standard drywall is cost-effective, basements often require moisture-resistant drywall or green board. These options prevent mold and water damage in humid environments. Moisture-resistant drywall costs 20–50% more but can extend the life of your walls and ceilings.
✅ Practical Tip: Use fire-resistant drywall for areas near furnaces or utility rooms to enhance safety.
In New Jersey and New York, labor rates for drywall installation vary. Urban areas often have higher labor costs due to increased demand. Specialty drywall materials—like soundproof panels—can also raise your budget.
✅ Practical Tip: Get multiple quotes from licensed professionals. A2Z Construction provides transparent, itemized estimates so you know exactly what to expect.
Other elements that can affect the cost include:
These steps are crucial for creating a comfortable and energy-efficient basement.
✅ Practical Tip: Include finishing details like crown molding or recessed lighting during the planning phase to avoid extra expenses later.
If you’re wondering how much would it cost to drywall a room, the answer depends on size, materials, and the level of finish you choose. The average cost to drywall a 12x12 room ranges from $600 to $1,400, covering materials and labor for walls and ceilings.
There are several types of drywall to consider:
You’ll also need joint compounds for taping and smoothing seams. The final appearance depends on the finish level, ranging from Level 1 (basic) to Level 5 (a completely smooth finish ready for paint).
✅ Practical Tip: Level 4 is common for residential spaces, but choose Level 5 for high-end living areas where lighting might highlight imperfections.
Hiring professionals ensures precision and compliance with building codes. A2Z Construction’s team provides detailed estimates that include all materials, labor, and finishing, giving homeowners a clear picture of costs upfront.
✅ Practical Tip: Always request a comprehensive estimate that includes ceiling costs, finishing details, and optional services like painting or cleanup. To get started, contact A2Z Construction for a personalized estimate tailored to your basement project.
While DIY projects may save on labor, mistakes in measuring, cutting, or drywall finishing can lead to higher repair costs later. David Haziza notes that professional installation not only saves time but often results in a higher-quality, longer-lasting finish.
For homeowners curious about how contractors price their work, this article explains how general contractors set rates and manage project costs.
To protect your investment:
✅ Practical Tip: Avoid contractors offering “too good to be true” pricing—it often leads to poor quality or hidden fees.
Look for companies with strong local reputations and experience in installing drywall and finishing a basement. A2Z Construction has served homeowners across New Jersey and New York for over three decades, earning trust for high-quality work and clear communication.
✅ Practical Tip: Schedule a free consultation with A2Z Construction to discuss your project and get expert advice tailored to your home.