Yes, basements can be completely underground. This type of basement is often referred to as a full basement or walk-out basement, as it is below ground level at all points. In other cases, basements may have a variety of structural designs, such as having part of the basement aboveground.
In this case, the area that is aboveground is most often referred to as a partial or ground-level basement. Typically, the area of a basement that is belowground is larger than the area that is aboveground.
Building a full basement usually requires excavation to dig below the existing grade level. During the construction process, heavy materials are needed to build a strong foundation, like gravel, concrete or steel beams.
Underground basements may provide additional living space for a home, or additional storage space depending on the needs of the homeowner.
Why are some basements not underground?
Some basements are not built underground because they are located in areas that are prone to flooding. In order to protect the space from water damage and make it usable, it may be constructed on the same level as the surrounding ground.
Another reason some basements are not underground is due to the construction style of the home. Some homes are built on concrete slabs and are not raised up off of the ground. As a result, the basement will not be located underground if the house is not built high enough.
Additionally, some basements may not be completely underground because their ceilings are higher than their floors due to sloping land around the home. These basements are sometimes referred to as “walk-out basements” since there is typically an entry door to the area near ground level.
All of these factors can contribute to why some basements are not underground.
What is below ground floor called?
Below ground floor is typically referred to as basement or cellar. In some cases, it may also be referred to as a sub-basement. Basements are often used for additional living space in homes, with rooms that may include recreational areas, home theaters, saunas, exercise rooms, or bedrooms.
In addition, they can also be used to store items that don’t need to be kept in the main living areas of a home. Cellars, on the other hand, are usually used for storage, as well as fermentation and ageing of food items, such as wine and cheese.
What are the three types of basements?
The three types of basements are pour-in-place basements, concrete block basements, and precast concrete basements.
Pour-in-place basements are created with a concrete-and-rebar mixture that is poured into the basement’s desired form. Once the mixture hardens, it is strong and durable. This type of basement is better suited for warmer climates and anywhere that is not prone to heavy freezes.
Concrete block basements are created from hollow, interlocking concrete blocks that are stacked and mortared in place. This method of construction is better suited for climates with harsh winters, since the blocks provide more insulation for the basement.
Precast concrete basements are constructed with large sections of concrete that are cast off-site and then brought to the construction site. This type of basement is typically more cost effective and less time consuming than either of the other two methods.
Precast concrete is ideal for foundations that need to meet specific design specifications.
What is a deep basement called?
A deep basement is often referred to as a full basement or full-height basement. This type of basement is normally constructed below ground level and has full height ceilings, allowing for full headroom.
The walls of a full basement are typically made of either poured concrete or masonry block, with vapor barriers and insulation installed to protect the structure from moisture. Depending on the design of the home, a full basement often includes a family room, recreation area, a laundry room, storage space, and other amenities that make it a great living space.
It can also be used for other purposes such as a home office, workshop, wine cellar, or gym. Most deep basements also include utilities, such as a furnace, water heater, and electrical panel for lights and other electrical items.
How deep in the ground is a basement?
The depth of a basement depends on a variety of factors, including the purpose of the basement, local building codes and ordinances, ground stability and soil conditions, and the type and height of the structure being built.
Generally, a basement is built below the frost line, which is the depth at which the soil remains at a constant temperature year-round. In many regions of the northern United States, this is at least 3-4 feet below ground, while in other regions, it may be closer to 6 feet.
For many residential structures, 4-6 feet below the surrounding ground level is common, though basements may be as shallow as 3 feet or as deep as 10-15 feet in some locations.
How far can you dig down a basement?
The depth of a basement depends on several factors including the soil type, location, local building code regulations, and the type of foundation used. Generally speaking, the maximum depth you should dig down is the frost line of your location, which is determined by the average coldest temperature of the year.
This is usually between 3 and 8 feet. However, this is just a general rule of thumb and should be discussed with an engineer or building contractor to ensure your project meets all local regulations and building codes.
In locations that experience very high snowfall and a high water table, deeper basements may be needed for proper drainage and stability, so it is important to consult a professional on the best course of action.
Do you need permission to dig a basement?
Yes, you typically need permission to dig a basement. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain approval from a number of different agencies or governing bodies. For example, in the United States, you might need to obtain approval from the local municipality and a homeowners association, if applicable.
Additionally, some regions have specific laws that have to be adhered to before a basement can be dug. This could include restrictions on the size, height, and other aspects of the project.
You should also consider other potential issues that may arise from digging a basement, especially in areas with extreme weather or geological conditions. Before beginning, you should consult with a professional engineer to ensure that the project meets all safety and building requirements, as well as local building codes and regulations.
They can provide advice on the best construction practices, help obtain the necessary permits, and provide oversight during the project. Failure to obtain the right permissions or adhere to legal requirements could result in fines or other penalties.
Is it worth digging out a basement?
Yes, digging out a basement can be a worthwhile investment in many circumstances. Depending on the structure and size of your home, a basement can be used for both living and storage space. A basement can provide additional living space for an expanding family, or for growing teenagers.
As an added bonus, basements can yield extra tax deductions since the additional square footage can be used to assess property taxes. In addition, an unfinished basement can be used as storage, while a finished basement can be used as leisure space or to host guests.
From a financial perspective, increasing the square footage of your property can boost its value which can in turn increase its resale value. Finally, though there is the upfront cost of excavation, in the longterm it is often seen as a sound investment both financially and for the additional living and storage space that is gained.
Can a basement be dug deeper?
Yes, it is possible to dig a basement deeper. The process is similar to excavating a foundation, and typically involves the use of heavy equipment and reinforced walls to ensure the structural integrity of the space.
Depending on the condition of the soil and the presence of any underground utilities, this process can be complex and expensive.
Before beginning the excavation process, it is important to determine if any local building regulations exist that could affect the plans. It is essential to check that any deeper excavation work is properly planned and consented for.
Sometimes engineering assessments are necessary before a permit is issued, so it is also important to adhere to any applicable requirements and procedures.
The excavation process involves removing soil, typically to a depth of several metres below the existing surface level, in order to create the desired shape and size of the basement area. Temporary bracing must be used to support the walls and the basement must be waterproofed before the backfill is applied.
Though it requires extensive preparation and consideration, digging a basement deeper can create a usable and beneficial area beneath a home.
Is it possible to make a basement deeper?
Yes, it is possible to make a basement deeper. Depending on the structure and property of the soil on the land, deepening a basement can be a time-consuming and costly project. If your current basement is connected to a shared wall or floor joists, you will need to make sure that the deepening process takes these into account.
Additionally, it is important to consider the soil conditions in the area. If the soil is prone to flooding, it will need to be addressed before taking on the project. Depending on the scope of the project, it may be necessary to bring in an experienced excavator for the best results.
After the necessary steps have been taken, it is possible to deepen a basement as long as the necessary construction codes, city ordinances, and regulations for the area are met.
Do basements come under far?
No, basements do not come under FAR (Floor Area Ratio). FAR is a ratio of the total floor area of the building to the total area of the lot on which it is built. FAR typically does not include the basement area as it is considered to be below grade.
The calculation of FAR is based on the area of the building that is above the grade, and therefore basements are not included.
What is the difference between ground floor and basement?
Ground floor is the level of a building that is closest to the ground and is usually the primary line of entry into the building. It is usually where the public areas, such as the lobby and the business offices, are located.
In contrast, basement is refers to the floor or level of a building that is below the ground level, either partially or completely. Basements are typically used for storage, laundry rooms, mechanical or HVAC equipment, and other purposes that do not need natural light.
Basements may also provide access to the outdoors. The primary distinction between a ground floor and a basement is that the latter is below ground level and not accessible from the outside.