how easy is building a basement

[jenndun]

We are in the planning process still. I would love a basement for a playroom. How easy is it to build one ourself? Is it even possible? We are trying to save money and from what I have read basements run $10-$20K. What do you thing the estimate on a 20x40 we build ourself would be. Thanks.

[glenn kangiser]

Not exactly easy, but can be done.  

...but building the house isn't easy either and we have lots of members who have done it.

Welcome to the forum, jenndun

It can vary depending on how you do it - who all is involved - permits, no permits - engineer - no engineer etc.

Are you in a permit required area?

[Redoverfarm]

Welcome.  A lot would depend on how crafted you are. This is one area that I would probably go to the professional. Unless you are a semi-skilled mason that can lay block or have worked in concrete for a poured wall I would hire this one out.  The basement is the foundation of a big investment.  If it would fail for what ever reason then it would jepordize everything above it.  

In an effort to cut cost you can lessen the expense.  If you can find someone that is a mason (retired or affordable) that you can work with to mix mortar, carry blocks that could decrease the cost. The style of your house will work also as there are not as much expense in a walkout basement  or partially sunken basemen as there is with a fully sunken.  With a partial you can add the soil taken from the bottom 4 feet and build up around the upper four feet to make it appear to be fully sunken.

You will have the cost of digging out for the basement which is usually contracted out because of the needed machinery.  This is one area that you just have to pay the going rate.  

As stated in the replies "yes" you can but how well or how long will it take you.  If you are paying on  a loan the faster you can get into the house the better.

[PEG688]

 This is a classic 'It depends " question       . And it has been pointed out well already!

  Welcome to the forum !

 G/L PEG