One of the best investments you can make is building a concrete basement in your new house or adding one to an existing one.
Most house owners put having a basement at the top of their wish list when house shopping, and for good reason. In a house, the basement performs a variety of tasks. They are a practical way for homes on small lots to increase the square footage of the main living rooms, besides the obvious benefits of storage space and greater living space.
The only restriction on what you can do with a basement is your imagination. It can serve as a workshop, guest quarters, entertainment center, home, etc. depending on what the homeowner needs it to be. Plus, if the house doesn't end up being your forever home, having a basement can help you command a higher price when it's time to sell.
In this post, we discuss the different types of basement construction. If you're considering building a basement in your house, it pays to be certain that you understand the essentials. This way, you can then make a wise decision on the building's foundations, materials, and overall design.
Types of basement foundations
Similar to regular foundations, basement foundations properly distribute a building's weight, anchor it to the earth, and keep moisture out.
Basement foundation walls differ significantly from typical foundation walls in that they are completely below ground to provide room for a subterranean floor.
Depending on the topography and the individual's preferences, here are 2 main basement foundations you can choose from.
Full basement foundations
Full basement foundations span entire walls and their floors are buried under a level plane around the building's perimeter. Depending on the use of the room, they can be finished—that is, insulated, with walls and flooring—or unfinished. Unfinished basements foundations have bare walls and floors and are not insulated. If there are windows, they are typically small and come out at ground level in full basements.
Daylight basement foundations
When a structure is on a slope, we construct daylight basements. These types of basements have two sides, one completely below ground and the other above ground. Because they may feature patios or basement-accessible exits, we sometimes know daylight basements as walkout basements. Since they allow for some natural light, they are less likely to develop mold or moisture problems than full basements.
Types of basement construction
In general, there are three main types of basement constructions: poured concrete, precast panels, and masonry walls. The three can be used interchangeably since they are made of similar materials, but a lot relies on the kind of construction in question.
The decision may also be influenced by the local soil composition, local building requirements, and restrictions. However, the choice is frequently left up to the particular contractor or project manager.
Let's talk about the three basic basement building styles listed below.
Poured concrete basements
Strong basement walls are necessary for both maintaining and withstanding pressure. Since concrete is more durable than alternative materials for basement walls, it is frequently preferred when building a basement.
The footings and foundation of a poured concrete basement are constructed from poured concrete and reinforced with steel bars to add structure and framework. Poured Concrete basements would be the most reliable option to bear hydrostatic pressure because they are watertight and have no seams.
Precast panel basements
Construction of precast panel basement walls involves off-site molding of the walls. The panels are then transported from the yard or construction studio and set on footers onsite. Although less prevalent, precast panel basements can be just as sturdy as poured concrete basement construction.
Precast basements can have moisture issues if the joints are not properly sealed, and they attract insects unless they have been treated with boric acid, so keep that in mind before settling on the basement construction.
Masonry walls basements
One of the less expensive solutions is to build a basement with a masonry wall using cinder blocks.
The cinder block's massive size and hollow interior help speed up construction, but you can reinforce the cavities with concrete and steel rebar. In terms of time and money, this is far more effective than pouring slabs from scratch.
Each style of basement construction has advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it's crucial to seek professional guidance before making judgments regarding such home improvement projects. A skilled and renowned basement builder like Natale Builders will have the knowledge to identify and address any potential issues that might arise both during and after construction. Contact us today for any more questions regarding basements and our new builds.
