There are several types of basements, each with its own unique characteristics. These include:
1. Walk-Out Basement: A walk-out basement, sometimes referred to as a garden-level basement, is a basement that is partially or totally below grade and provides direct access to the outside. It has one or more entry points for light, ventilation, and/or access to the outdoors.
2. Daylight Basement: This type of basement is built at-grade, meaning that the floor of the basement is at ground level and the windows provide natural light. This type of basement is ideal for walk-out patios, decks, or gardens.
3. Lookout Basement: This type of basement sits partially above the ground and can provide natural light to the basement though the windows.
4. Full-Basement: The full basement type is completely below ground level, with no windows present. This type of basement is generally used for storage and utility purposes.
5. Crawlspace Basement: Crawlspace basements are typically found in older homes and provide an economical way for areas to be finished and storage rooms. Though this type of basement is typically unfinished and left for storage, some homeowners use crawlspaces as additional living space.
No matter the type, basements are excellent additions to any home; they provide extra storage and living space, which can be used for a variety of purposes. Basements also provide protection from the elements and can help to reduce the overall energy consumption of a home.
What is a basement partial?
A basement partial is a type of water control system that is designed to create a barrier on the outside of a foundation wall that helps to keep moisture away from the structure. These systems are typically installed in basements or lower levels of a home, as they are designed to keep water out of the area and prevent any water damage.
The system works by installing an waterproof membrane on the outside of the foundation wall that is then fastened to the wall and secured in place. This barrier helps to protect the foundation from water and moisture that can seep into the home.
Additionally, there may also be a drainage system included, which helps to further protect the foundation from water damage by collecting and diverting the water away from the home.
What is a partial unfinished basement?
A partial unfinished basement is a basement that is partially constructed or incomplete, usually with unfinished walls, a partially finished or unfinished floor and an unfinished ceiling. They are most often found in older homes, or homes that have had renovations done on them.
Partial unfinished basements are an excellent place to start if you are looking to add additional living space to your home. Partial unfinished basements provide a space where the homeowner can add fixtures and other amenities to the home.
This includes walls and floors that can be customized to the homeowner’s preference. Additionally, partial unfinished basements are perfect for adding do-it-yourself projects such as a workshop, a craft room, family room, or even a game room.
Though a partial unfinished basement may not be livable space, it is a great option for additional space that can be custom-tailored to the user’s needs.
Can a basement be smaller than the house?
Yes, a basement can be smaller than the house. In some cases, the basement area may be just large enough for essential equipment such as a furnace and hot water heater, or for basic storage needs. Many homes also have a partial basement, with the main area used for a garage or other functional purpose.
While the basement may be smaller than the home, it can still provide much-needed functional and additional living space, whether it is used as a home office, media center, additional living area, or recreation area.
What is difference between basement and cellar?
The primary difference between a basement and a cellar is the purpose for which each is used. Basements are an area of a home either partially or fully located below the building’s main level and are usually used for additional living space, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and recreation areas.
Cellars, on the other hand, are generally located on the lowest level of a structure and are used mainly for storage, such as of food, beverages, and other items that don’t require refrigeration. Cellars are also sometimes used to house mechanical equipment, such as furnaces and water heaters, or to create a safe area during a storm.
Basements and cellars both typically require more protection from water and may need to be waterproofed to prevent damage from rising water levels from flooding. Additionally, both areas usually require special ventilation systems, as the lower levels are more susceptible to heat and moisture fluctuation.
What is the room below a house called?
The room below a house is typically referred to as the basement. Basements are usually a finished or unfinished space below the main level of a house that can be used for various purposes such as laundry, study, recreation, and storage.
Basements may also include utilities such as furnaces, hot water heaters, and electric panels. It is not uncommon to find unfinished basements since these are popular for storage and extra living space.
Many home builders do not include basements in the construction plans, but they can be added as part of a remodel or existing home. Basements are also popular in areas that are prone to natural disasters, like earthquakes or floods, since they can provide an extra layer of protection.
Is a partially finished basement included in square footage?
The answer to this question depends on the real estate market and individual home. In general, square footage typically refers to the amount of heated and cooled area within a home. Commonly, a partially finished basement is considered as part of the total square footage, as long as it is heated, cooled and finished to a level consistent with the rest of the house.
This includes drywall, finishes, fixtures, and permanent stairs or ramps for access. However, if a basement is unfinished or only partially finished with items such as exposed studs, insulation, concrete floors, or an unfinished heater/cooler system, it likely would not be included in the total square footage.
Ultimately, individual real estate markets and specific listings determine what is and isn’t included in the square footage.
Do appraisers look in basements?
Yes, in some cases appraisers look in basements. Appraisers are tasked with getting the most accurate market value estimate of a property, including knowledge of the home’s construction, condition and features.
While appraisers do not typically inspect every area of a home, they may need to assess unique features, such as a finished basement, to determine their overall valuation. If the finished basement is constructed in such a way that it could be deemed as an extra living area or a separate dwelling place, an appraiser will need to assess it to determine the correct value of the property.
In this case, the appraiser may look in the basement during the inspection. In addition, basements may need to be inspected by the appraiser if there could be issues such as water damage, mold or poor construction.
If there are any deficiencies that may result in the appraised value being lower, the appraiser needs to be aware of them.
Why do people not finish basement?
There are a variety of reasons why people do not finish their basements. Cost is often a major factor, as finishing a basement can be a labor-intensive and expensive process depending on the size and condition of the space.
Homeowners may also be reluctant to finish a basement due to the need for proper waterproofing. In some cases, there may be a structural issue with the home that makes finishing the basement impractical.
Water damage, mould, or other hazards due to poor ventilation or excessive moisture can also be concerns for homeowners. Other issues that may make homeowners reluctant to finish their basements include the challenges of managing a long-term construction project, lack of time or resources, or lack of proper permits or local zoning laws.
How much does an unfinished basement add to home value?
Whether or not an unfinished basement adds to the overall home value depends largely on the size, condition, and usability of the basement space. Generally speaking, an unfinished basement that is in good condition, has an adequate amount of usable space, and is not prone to flooding or moisture issues can potentially increase the home’s overall value.
The amount an unfinished basement adds to a home’s value can vary greatly depending on local market conditions and completion status at the time of sale. However, on average an unfinished basement that meets these criteria may increase a home’s sale price by roughly 10-15%.
Do finished basements count in an appraisal?
In most cases, finished basements will count during an appraisal, depending on the type of appraisal that is completed. An appraiser will look at the square footage of the basement and consider it finished or unfinished space.
If the basement is finished and in good condition, it should count as part of the total square footage. Other items an appraiser will consider when appraising a finished basement are any additional bonus rooms, the quality of the finishes, and the ceiling height.
If the basement is finished but not usable due to not meeting current codes, then it may not be considered when determining the total square footage of the home. Ultimately, these decisions will be made by the appraiser and may depend on the standards of the market and the guidelines of the lender.
What adds the most value to a home?
The most important factor in determining the value of a home is its location. A home located in a desirable neighbourhood with access to amenities like schools, parks, and shopping centres will always be more valuable than a home that is located in a less desirable area.
Beyond the location, other factors that contribute to the value of a home include its condition, any modifications/upgrades that have been done, and the size of the home.
In terms of condition, a home will generally be valued more highly if it is in good condition and well-maintained. If a home has been neglected and is in disrepair, then it will not add as much value.
Upgrades such as remodelled bathrooms, new flooring, and refinished countertops are all ways to increase the value of a home, as they can make it more appealing to buyers.
The size of the home also plays a large role in its value. A larger home will generally be worth more than a smaller home, as it is more desirable to buyers. Additionally, features such as an extra bedroom or bathroom, a garage, a pool, or an outdoor living area can all add value to a home.
In conclusion, the most important thing that adds value to a home is its location. Other important factors include its condition, any modifications/upgrades that have been done, and the size of the home.
When these factors are taken into consideration, it is easy to see why they all contribute to the value of a home.
Should I finish my basement before selling?
It depends on your specific circumstances. If your basement is already in decent shape and only needs a few minor fixes and updates to improve its look and feel, it can be worth taking the time to do so.
Doing this can potentially add value to your home and help increase its sale price.
On the other hand, if the basement needs substantial repairs, or if you do not have the time or money to dedicate to improving it before selling, it might be best to leave it as it is. Often in this case, buyers will be willing to make their own repairs after purchasing the home, allowing them to customize the basement to their own preferences.
It is also a good idea to consider the current real estate market. If the market is particularly active, buyers may be willing to overlook minor cosmetic issues in a basement. Conversely, if the market is slow and there is a lot of competition from other sellers, it may be in your best interest to finish your basement in order to stand out from the rest.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to finish your basement before selling is dependent on your individual situation. It is important to weigh the time and resources required, the potential return of investment, and the current real estate market conditions.
What it called when a basement that is half underground?
The term for a basement that is part underground is a “walk-out basement”. This type of basement typically has one or two walls that are below ground level and one or two walls that are at or above grade.
These walls often have windows, allowing natural light and providing a view to the outdoors. Walk-out basements are ideal because they still provide the space and convenience of a basement while allowing occupants to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors with natural sunlight and fresh air.
What do you call an above ground basement?
An above ground basement is usually referred to as a “walkout basement” or “daylight basement. ” It is created by using the natural grade of the land to build a section of the house that is partially below ground and partially above ground, with the top half of the basement having a full wall of windows and/or door leading to the outside.
Walkout basements are popular in areas where an entirely below ground basement is not feasible, due to a high water table or other reasons.