Finishing Basement Walls on the Cheap

In this article: 15+ DIY ideas for livening up boring basement walls on a small budget.

Are you in need of some cheap ideas for livening up a dreary basement space?

Perhaps you already use your basement for a game or TV room and are tired of seeing those plain cement block walls.

So how can you cover your basement walls cheaply?

Here are more than ten ideas and tips for a cost-effective basement transformation that only require a bit of creativity, a few DIY skills and a small cash outlay.

Ideas for Finishing Basement Walls on the Cheap

1. Insulation and Vapor Barrier

Before you cover your walls, install proper insulation and a vapor barrier. This will help keep your basement warm and dry, preventing mold and mildew growth.

2. Drywall

Installing drywall is labor-intensive, but it can provide a clean, finished look at a reasonable cost. You can save money by doing the installation and finishing work yourself.

3. Wood Paneling

Consider using inexpensive wood paneling to cover your walls. You can either paint or stain the panels to create the desired look.

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4. Plywood or OSB

Another cost-effective option is to use plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) as a wall covering. You can paint, stain or add a clear coat to the surface for a more finished appearance.

5. Paint

Lighter colors will make your basement space feel larger and brighter. Use waterproof paint to prevent moisture issues.

6. Pallet Wood

Create a unique, rustic look by repurposing pallet wood. Clean, sand and finish the pallet slats before attaching them to your walls.

7. Faux Brick or Stone

Use faux brick or stone panels to add texture and depth to your basement walls. You can purchase panels at home improvement stores relatively inexpensively.

8. Fabric or Curtains

Hang fabric or curtains along the walls to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This option also allows you to change the look of the space easily and affordably.

9. Wallpapers or Wall Decals

Use peel-and-stick wallpapers or wall decals to add pattern, texture or color to your basement walls. These are easy to apply and remove, making them another affordable and low-commitment option.

10. Shelves and Storage

Maximize your space by installing shelves and storage solutions on your basement walls. Shelving will help keep your basement organized and make the space more functional and visually appealing.

Reader Solutions for Finishing Basement Walls Inexpensively

We also asked our frugal readers for some cheap suggestions for finishing basement walls. Maybe one of their creative suggestions will work for you.

Bulletin Board Panels

Do one wall in cork panels or a roll of cork to create a huge bulletin board. You can pin up seasonal cards, school papers, photos, etc. There are fun pins in all kinds of colors. You put it up with adhesive.

It’s super easy for anyone to do and very affordable.
Clare

Liquid Starch and Fabric

Use liquid starch to attach fabric to walls. You can do an internet search to find out more details.
Tina

Brick and Bamboo

Make fake walls within a wall. It is easy to put up a wall a few inches from the brick and line those 2x4s with some of the new paneling that looks like bamboo. This gives you a more contemporary look. On the seams, just use the matching tape you can buy, and of course, buy it all when it is on sale.

If I can do it with my husband, anyone can do it.
Denise M. in Iowa

Related: 11 Ways To Save at Home Depot

Sheetrock

Your cheap and fast option is to just paint the cement walls any color you want.

The other more expensive and time consuming way is to make a stud frame on the wall to attach sheetrock. You’ll probably have to put a moisture barrier before the sheetrock to prevent mold growth on the sheetrock or buy the expensive paperless sheetrock that prevents mold growth.

Don’t forget you’ll have to purchase mud, seam tape, screws for the studs and sheetrock, and paint. And you might have to buy more tools than you already have to complete this option.
Paul

Wainscot or Corrugated Roofing

We finished our basement walls using 4’X8′ sheets of wainscot that we cut in half into 4’X4′, finishing the top edge with a 3″ trim board laid flat for a shelf that we keep games propped up on for interest. We painted the cement blocks a light tan and it looks very nice.

I have also seen corrugated roofing applied at 3′ or 4′ finished off with 3″ trim top and bottom to cover the raw edges for a different look.
Raymond

How Will You Finish Your Basement Walls?

As you can see, there are many options for affordably finishing basement . Remember to plan your project well and take your time to find the best deals on materials. Don’t be afraid to repurpose or upcycle items to create a unique and cost-effective basement finish. Check out your local Habitat ReStore for savings.

Reviewed April 2023

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