Can I save money by doing the painting and trim work myself after professionals do the rest?

Yes, you can definitely save money by handling painting and trim work yourself after the professionals complete the structural, electrical, and plumbing work. This is one of the most common ways homeowners reduce costs on basement renovations, and it can save you $3,000-$8,000 on a typical Ottawa basement project.

Painting is the most DIY-friendly finish work and offers the biggest savings opportunity. Professional painters in Ottawa typically charge $2-4 per square foot for walls and ceilings, plus $8-15 per linear foot for trim work. On a 600 square foot basement with standard trim, you're looking at $2,500-$5,000 in labor savings. The main investment is your time - expect 3-5 full days for a basement including prep, priming, and two coats.

Trim work requires more skill but is still manageable for most homeowners. Baseboard, door casing, and crown molding installation can save another $1,500-$3,000 in labor costs. You'll need basic tools like a miter saw, nail gun, and level, which you can rent from Home Depot or Canadian Tire for about $150-200 total. The key is taking your time with measurements and cuts - mistakes in trim work are very visible.

Timing coordination is crucial for this approach. The professionals need to complete all drywall, taping, and sanding before you can prime and paint. Similarly, trim work typically happens after flooring installation but before final paint touch-ups. Make sure your contractor knows your plan so they can schedule accordingly and leave the space properly prepared.

Consider your skill level honestly - poorly done trim work can actually hurt your home's value and appearance. Caulking, mitering corners, and dealing with out-of-square walls requires patience and practice. If you're comfortable with these tasks, you can achieve professional-looking results. If not, consider doing just the painting and leaving trim to the pros.

For basement-specific considerations, ensure you're using moisture-resistant primers and paints suitable for below-grade spaces. In Ottawa's climate, basements can experience humidity fluctuations, so proper paint selection prevents future peeling and mold issues.

Want to discuss how to structure your project timeline to maximize DIY savings? We can coordinate the professional work to leave everything perfectly prepped for your finishing touches.