Basements are not particularly common in Oklahoma. Though the state experiences an average of 46 inches of rain annually and has a high water table, most homes in Oklahoma do not have basements. This is due largely to two factors.
The first is that the ground in Oklahoma is highly expansive, meaning it can quickly swell and contract with the changing environment. This means that potentially, the soil could cause problems to a basement foundation that are difficult and expensive to manage.
This is why many builders in Oklahoma opt to build homes on a permanant concrete slab rather than a traditional basement. The second factor is that the overwhelmingly large majority of homes are custom-built.
These homes are typically built on a budget and a basement is often not considered cost-effective, as it requires much more material and labor to construct.
Can you build underground in Oklahoma?
Yes, building underground in Oklahoma is possible. Oklahoma has two main soil types: clay soils, and rolling redbeds. Clay soils are mostly found in eastern Oklahoma and are generally not suitable for underground construction because they are impermeable and highly compressible.
In western Oklahoma, where the rolling redbeds are found, the soil is more permeable and less compressible, making it suitable for underground projects.
In western Oklahoma, underground structures can be built, such as storm or burial shelters, cisterns, cellars, and possibly even swimming pools. All underground construction projects require careful preparation and planning.
Prior to building underground in Oklahoma, it is necessary to have a soil test to check for strength, stability and permeability of the soil. In addition, a structural engineer should be consulted to ensure that the underground project is structurally sound.
Finally, the project must comply with all local building codes.
What states Cannot have basements?
There are currently several states in the U. S. that do not typically have basements in residential homes due to various geographic, environmental, and other factors. These states include Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, South Carolina, Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Georgia.
The lack of basements in these locations is largely attributed to the fact that many of these states have either high or low water tables with the soil being too marshy to dig a basement, or the ground being too hard and dry to build a basement.
Additionally, the location of these states also makes them more vulnerable to hurricanes and flooding, which can make basement construction impossible in some cases.
In places where basement construction is possible, it can cost far more than it does in other states due to the additional labor and materials needed to securely build the structure. For example, installing an additional sump pump or water-resistant barrier systems to the basement foundation can add considerable extra costs.
As a result, many people choose to not have a basement in these states.
Is it cheaper to build up or a basement?
The cost of building up or a basement can vary depending on the materials and labor costs in the area where you are building. On average, building up or “building out” costs more since the construction labor and materials for additional levels or for an extension cost more than those for a basement.
However, the cost can depend on the square footage and material used for the building up. If you are considering a basement, know that excavation, concrete, and waterproofing can make it significantly more expensive than building up.
Ultimately, comparing prices for both options in your area is the best way to decide which is more cost-effective.
Is it possible to add a basement to an existing home?
Yes, it is possible to add a basement to an existing home. Adding a basement can be a big project, requiring excavation of the soil around the home, adding the waterproofing, installing drain tiles, and pouring concrete footings and walls to secure the basement.
This can be a difficult and costly project, but can be very beneficial in terms of additional space and storage options, increased home value, and energy efficiency. Before beginning this project, it is important to familiarize yourself with local building codes, as there are often limitations as to where and how much excavation can be done.
In addition, a professional engineer may need to be consulted in order to properly design a basement to fit the specific characteristics of the home. If adding a basement to an existing home is a project you are considering, doing your research, understanding the requirements, and consulting with a professional can help ensure a successful project.
What is the cheapest way to add square footage to a house?
If you are looking for a way to add square footage to your home in a cost-effective manner, one of the cheapest ways to do so is to convert existing space. For example, you could convert an underutilized attic or basement into an additional bedroom or living room.
You could make use of the garage and finish it off with paneling, insulation, and drywall so it can be used as additional living or storage space. You may also be able to convert a second bathroom into a bedroom and renovate the space as an office or home gym.
If these options are not available, consider adding a deck or patio for extra living space. When considering the cost per square foot, adding decks and patios is usually more economical than adding another full room.
As with any renovations, pricing out each option is the best way to determine the most cost-effective approach.
Is a slab foundation cheaper than a basement?
The short answer is that it depends. Both a slab foundation and a basement foundation can be expensive, and which one is cheaper can vary a lot depending on the location and size of the structure, materials used and other factors.
Generally, a slab foundation is typically more cost-effective than a basement in many cases because a slab foundation does not require excavation, whereas a basement often does. Additionally, slab foundations typically require less material and labor than a basement due to the fact that they do not need to be hollowed out and do not require a many extra components and finishes as a basement does.
However, slab foundations can sometimes be more expensive in extreme climates or areas with high ground water levels since extra reinforcements such as footings, waterproofing and drainage systems may be needed for the slab.
In areas with extreme temperatures, additional thermal insulation may be needed for a slab, as well, which can drive up the cost and make it pricey. Basements, however, can require expensive excavation and labor costs and also require many components to make them inhabitable, such as insulation and waterproofing, making them more expensive than a slab foundation in some instances.
Why are there no basements in the Midwest?
One of the primary reasons is due to the climate. The soil throughout the Midwest is clay-like, making it more prone to heaving during freeze and thaw cycles. This shifting of the soil can lead to cracks and other damage to the basement walls and foundation.
Additionally, the area has a higher than average water table, which can lead to moisture and dampness in basements.
Another reason why basements are not as common in the Midwest is due to geology. The Midwest is located in a region known as the Interior Lowlands, which is part of the larger North American Interior Plains physiographic region.
This geology is characterized by flat plains, deep basins, and wide river valleys which can make digging a basement challenging and costly.
Finally, many of the homes in the Midwest are built on concrete slabs instead of basements. This is due to cost and the fact that basements are not needed for foundations in the Midwest’s mild climate.
Building a concrete slab is a simpler, more affordable solution and can also help prevent water damage that might be found in a basement.
Are basements common in Midwest?
Yes, basements are quite common in the Midwest. While not all homes have basements, they are certainly not uncommon. Basements are attractive to homeowners in the Midwest because they offer additional storage and living space, and they can help to protect the home’s foundation from the harsh winter weather.
Some basements are partially or fully below ground level, while other homes may have a crawlspace basement, or one that’s at the same level as the rest of the house. Building codes in the Midwest generally require that basement floors, walls and ceilings to be built to a higher standard than those on the upper levels of the home, to help protect the space from moisture and water infiltration.
Many homes in the Midwest also come with sump pumps to help minimize the risk of basement flooding.
How much value does a basement add to a home?
A basement can add tremendous value to a home, both in terms of financial and personal value. Financially, basements can increase property values anywhere from 5 to 20 percent, depending on the location and other factors.
On top of this, basements can add a lot of square footage to your home, making it that much more appealing to prospective buyers.
On the personal front, basements can provide a great space for extra storage, home offices, rec rooms, fitness centers, and more. This can really add to the overall enjoyment of living in the home, especially for families.
If the basement has been waterproofed, it can be an ideal location for a home theater, entertaining area, playroom, or even a workshop. Depending on how creative you get with it, a basement can be the setting for many different activities that can benefit the entire family.
In this way, a basement can truly add a lot of personal value to a home.
Why don t homes in the south have basements?
Houses in the south generally don’t have basements due to the local climate and soil conditions. The main issue is related to the issue of moisture. The expansive clay soils common to many parts of the south are often heavier and more moisture-absorbent than those found in other parts of the US.
Because of this, there is an increased risk of water seeping into and saturating the basement walls and low areas of these homes resulting in flooding, water damage, and other related issues. Additionally, in areas where the soil is poorly compacted or poorly drained there is an increased risk of basement walls shifting or cracking from the weight of the soil and the settling of the home.
As the humidity in the south is much higher than that of other parts of the country, it can lead to an increase in moisture within the basement, creating an environment that is more susceptible to mold and mildew growth.
In extreme cases, the moisture can even lead to dangerous levels of radon gas. Finally, some parts of the south are located in hurricane-prone areas, making the risk of flooding and other weather-related damage much higher.
All of these factors contribute to why it is much more common to find homes in the south without basements.
Are basements illegal in Texas?
No, basements are not illegal in Texas. Texas law does not impose any restrictions on homeowners regarding the construction of basements. In most cases, building a basement in Texas requires approval from the local building authority and homeowners must also comply with local zoning regulations.
Depending on the area, building a basement in Texas may require hard work and expensive costs for the materials and excavation. Additionally, there may be soil and drainage issues that should be addressed prior to breaking ground.
Homeowners should also consider whether their area is prone to flooding or water seepage before constructing a basement.
Can you have a basement in Tennessee?
Yes, basements can be found in Tennessee. While basements are not common in some parts of the state, especially in urban areas, there are plenty of homes in Tennessee that have basements. Basements are often included in new constructions, as well as popular in homes in rural and suburban areas of the state.
Basements are a great way to add additional living or storage space to your home, as well as add value to the home. Some homeowners choose to utilize their basements for recreational activities like family rooms, entertainment centers, and home offices.
In order to construct a basement, a home must be built on a concrete slab foundation, and the walls must be waterproofed to prevent water leakage.