The main disadvantage of having a walkout basement is that it can be more expensive to build than a standard basement. This is because it requires building an additional structure, such as a deck or terrace, to provide access to the basement from the outside.
It also requires more labor for construction and can require more materials than building a standard basement. Additionally, since the outside area isn’t accessible from the interior of the home, there isn’t much opportunity for additional living space.
In addition, walkout basements are considered below grade, making them susceptible to water flooding, mold growth, and other moisture damage. To guard against this, special waterproofing techniques must be used during the construction process, and this can add to the overall cost of the project.
Walkout basements also sometimes experience less natural lighting compared to standard basements, and due to their construction, they may be less malleable to customization.
Why choose a home with a walkout basement?
A walkout basement can be a great benefit for a homebuyer, as it adds additional square footage and functionality. Not to mention, that extra bit of space can add a nice resale value down the road. The appeal of a true walkout basement is that it provides direct, unencumbered access between the main level and the basement level of the home.
It allows the homeowner to have an indoor/outdoor space and can be used as another living area either for storage, additional bedrooms, a game room, office space, home gym, or whatever else one can imagine.
Another advantage of a home with a walkout basement is natural light. It provides natural light that is otherwise not available in a typical basement. Especially for renters or owners that want to enjoy their space, this can be a big bonus.
Since the basement gains direct access to the outdoors, it is easy to enjoy the ambient light and ultimately lower the electric bill from having to put extra lighting down there.
Plus, walkouts give homeowners direct access to their lawn or garden. This makes it easy to access windows for cleaning or a patio area for entertaining. Since walkouts come with the Natural light already present, this allows a homeowner to do things like enjoy celebrations or relax with friends and family without having to move outside.
In conclusion, having a home with a walkout basement can be a major asset. The design affords a great blend of additional functional space and natural light, while also providing convenience and comfort.
This extra square footage brings buyers greater choice – whether it be to use the space for storage or additional bedrooms – and allows them to make the most out of their investment.
Are walkout basements prone to flooding?
Walkout basements are prone to flooding, particularly when the area surrounding the home is poorly graded or landscaped. If a sloping grade directs the water away from the home or slopes away from the house, it should reduce the chance of flooding in the walkout basement.
Additionally, protection from surface water can be controlled with proper drainage systems, including swales, pipes, and sump pumps which may help to prevent ground water from pooling around the basement.
Additionally, waterproofing the foundation walls and the perimeter of the basement floor can help to mitigate the potential for water damage. To avoid flooding, be sure to direct water away from the home by grading the ground away from the foundation, installing proper drainage and waterproofing materials, and ensuring all downspouts are connected to a surface that dissipates the water.
How much slope is needed for a walkout basement?
The amount of slope needed for a walkout basement will depend on its location and the individual design. Generally, a minimum of an 8 to 10 percent slope is recommended to ensure drainage. This should be sufficient to ensure that rainwater and melted snow can move away from the foundation and down the slope.
If the basement is in an area with high groundwater levels, the slope may need to be increased to ensure that the basement does not become flooded. The pitch should never be less than 1 inch for every foot of run in order for there to be sufficient drainage.
It is also important to ensure that the slope does not threaten the structural integrity of the foundation and the basement walls.
Do you need a sump pump in a walkout basement?
Whether or not you need a sump pump in a walkout basement depends on the setup and construction of the basement. You will need a sump pump if there is a high water table around or under the basement or if the basement is prone to flooding.
If your basement is susceptible to flooding or has poor drainage, a sump pump can help keep the water at bay. A sump pump collects and pumps water away from the house, protecting the basement and other areas of the property from potential water damage.
You may need to install additional drainage systems or waterproofing measures to prevent flooding in the first place. Depending on the level of water, a perimeter or foundation drain may be installed to help keep water away and move it toward the sump pump.
If you are unsure whether your basement needs a sump pump, it is recommended that you consult a professional to determine the best solution for your specific circumstances.
Can a walkout basement be built on flat land?
Yes, it is possible to build a walkout basement on flat land. It involves creating a slot trench, or a slightly-sloped trench around the perimeter of the area in which the new basement will be built.
When excavated and backfilled, the resulting area will slope slightly away from the home and into the yard, making a “walkout” space beneath the main floor of the house. The sloped area created by the trench will help with drainage and prevents water from collecting around or near the foundation of the home.
Building a walkout basement on flat land is a great way to add additional living or storage space without dramatically altering the visual appeal of the home or yard. It’s an especially attractive option if the homeowner is hoping to build another room or level below the primary floor of the home.
Does walkout basement add value?
Yes, walkout basements can add value to a home. A walkout basement typically increases a home’s overall square footage, making it more spacious and attractive to potential buyers. Additionally, walkout basements often include direct access to the backyard, allowing the homeowner more easy access to the outdoors.
This can be a great selling point for those looking for an easy way to enter the backyard for activities like grilling, gardening, or just enjoying the fresh air. Walkout basements also often include windows, providing an abundance of natural light, as well as making the space feel more airy and open.
Overall, walkout basements can be an attractive feature to potential buyers, and can certainly add value to a home.
Is a walkout basement considered a shallow basement?
No, a walkout basement is not considered a shallow basement. While both walkout basements and shallow basements are partially or completely below the ground, the defining factor of a shallow basement is the depth.
Typically, a shallow basement has a depth of 8 feet or less, while a walkout basement may have a depth of up to 10-12 feet. In addition, shallow basements have one or more usable windows, while walkout basements have one or more patio doors or sliding glass doors, allowing more natural light and ventilation than a shallow basement.
Therefore, while a walkout basement is partially below the ground and may share some characteristics of shallow basements, it is typically much deeper and does not strictly fit the definition of a shallow basement.
How do you excavate a walkout basement?
Excavating a walkout basement involves a complex process that needs to be completed with precision and accuracy. First, the site must be surveyed to create a blueprint of the basement area that is being excavated.
During this process, the entry and exit points, measurements of the walls, and other details need to be taken into account. After the survey is complete, it is time to start excavating. The first step is to ensure that all of the necessary permits and approvals are in place.
Once those are obtained, a plan of action should be put in place in order to reduce the amount of surface disruption. Next, the topsoil must be removed to create the foundation for the walkout basement.
At this point, it is important to use special techniques to protect the existing vegetation. After the soil has been cleared, the footing of the basement should be excavated. This is done by drilling and blasting the landscape, or using a mechanical trackbackhoe/excavator.
Finally, after the basement is excavated, it is necessary to reinforce the structure and install the necessary supports, such as posts and beams, which depend on the size and layout of the excavation.
When the excavation is complete, the walls, floor, and ceiling of the walkout basement can be installed.
What are the three types of basements?
The three types of basements are full basements, partial basements, and daylight basements. A full basement is a basement that extends the full length and width of the home and leaves enough room for a liveable space.
It is typically dug as deep as the basement walls go, allowing for the most amount of storage and usable space. A partial basement is one which is partially below the ground or elevated partially above grade with a dirt or stone foundation.
They typically do not provide much headroom and storage advantages of a full basement, but they are still great options for homeowners looking to add value to their property. Finally, a daylight basement is one that is partially above ground on one side.
Typically, one or more walls will have large windows that provide outside light, so the basement does not feel as dark as one that sits completely beneath the ground. Daylight basements also often have doorways and walk-outs, providing access to an exterior space.
How much does it cost to turn a basement into a walkout?
The cost of turning a basement into a walkout depends on the size and condition of the existing basement and the desired outcome. In some cases, it could be as simple and cost-effective as making changes to the existing concrete stairway, or it could require full excavation and additional waterproofing procedures.
On average, additional costs of waterproofing, framing, excavating, and stair upgrades can range anywhere from $10,000-$50,000, depending on the complexity and size of the project. Of course, minor remodels and upgrades might(or might not) require permits or other fees.
It is always recommended to seek the advice of a contractor to understand the exact costs, timelines, and required materials for the project.
Do daylight basements count as square footage?
The answer to this question depends on the local zoning or building regulations for the specific area in which you live. Generally speaking, a daylight basement is counted as below grade and would not be counted as part of the total square footage.
However, if the basement were to be improved, meaning that it had more finished elements like drywall and paint, and a permanent staircase, then that may be counted as part of the total square footage.
Additionally, if your municipal regulations specify a certain percentage of the daylight basement may be used for living space and the rest storage, then the living space portion could be included in the overall square footage while the storage portion would not.
Ultimately, the best way to find out is to research local building codes and speak with a licensed building inspector.
What is the difference between a daylight basement and a walkout basement?
A daylight basement is essentially an unfinished basement with windows that allow natural light to come into the area. Daylight basements offer potential for additional living space, with varying degrees of exposure to the outdoors.
Typically, the size and shape of the windows will determine the amount of light and ventilation into the basement.
A walkout basement, on the other hand, is a finished basement with an exterior door leading onto the yard or patio. Unlike a daylight basement, the walkout basement provides direct access to the outdoors, allowing homeowners to easily go in and out and enjoy the yard without having to traverse up to the main level.
Walkout basements also offer easy access to grilled food or other items stored in the basement without having to go up and down several flights of stairs. In addition, a walkout basement typically has natural light, but to a much lesser degree than the daylight basement.