Although building a basement might not be inexpensive, it might end up being a truly worthwhile addition to your house. There are a few considerations you should make before beginning the project, whether you're building a new home or thinking about adding a basement level to an existing one.
Although building a basement might not be inexpensive, it might end up being a truly worthwhile addition to your house. There are a few considerations you should make before beginning the project, whether you're building a new home or thinking about adding a basement level to an existing one.
When creating a basement, there are a few important considerations that have been collated and addressed on this blog.
BUILDING PERMITS
Although they are not always necessary, building permits can be obtained as a safety measure. Permits may occasionally be required for the building of a new basement. A typical application, some supporting documents, and payment of a fee are all that are required to receive one. The building plans, which must be created by a qualified architect or engineer, are the most crucial document. A site plan, a zoning compliance declaration, and an occupancy certificate are additional requirements.
Getting a building permit can be a drawn-out and challenging procedure. In order to prevent delays, it is crucial to start the process as soon as feasible.
WHAT REASONS FOR THE INCREASED COST?
The cost of installing lentar, also known as lintel, in the basement's four walls, ceiling, and even on the floor, is undoubtedly the biggest. This additional lintel is intended to give the house structural strength so that the basement will hold the house firmly.
Basements shall be strengthened by the construction of six more lintels and by the use of beams. Only four beams (one in each corner) will be required if the basement's covered area is smaller than the first floors. Extra beams will be needed if the covered area is the same as the ground floor.
SEEEPAGE PROBLEM
In order to prevent seepage issues in your basement, the bricks you select are crucial.
The problem is typically caused by the use of "katchi" bricks in the basement building because they could absorb the water needed to install lintels (horizontal structural support). Homes constructed on previously agriculturally utilized land are more prone to face seepage issues.
You must build proper ventilation systems to stop this. In this scenario, it is advisable to have windows on either side to provide sunlight and fresh air into the basement. On the other hand, adding ducts can hasten the ventilation system. These are commonly utilized in finished basements.
BASEMENT'S HEIGHT
This level is frequently dug deeper to create a sturdy floor bed whether you are building a new basement or finishing one beneath an existing house. In order to provide greater room for windows, a basement is also taller than the ground floor.
In most situations, a basement is built by excavating to a depth of 20 feet. Additionally, because basements are somewhat higher than the garage's ground level, the ground floor of the house is automatically raised. Typically, basement windows open into the garage, a side alley, or both alleys.
WIRING
A basement's wiring is best installed concurrently with the building of the basement. An electrician should be consulted to ensure that the wiring is done correctly.
Ask the contractor you hire about their experience with basement wiring if you are employing them to complete the work. Finding a contractor who is comfortable working in basements is crucial because some contractors are not. Basement wiring rules and local construction codes should also be known to the contractor.
WINDOWS
There are a few factors to take into account while picking windows for a basement:
- The quantity of light that will enter.
- The necessary form of ventilation (since basements can become extremely hot and stuffy, it's crucial to pick a window that will allow for sufficient airflow)
- The safety of the windows (burglars frequently choose basement windows as easy targets, thus it's critical to take precautions)
EMERGENCY EXIT
Window openings in basements are crucial for ventilation but they are also essential for preparing emergency escape routes.
If you reside in a gated community, the society bylaws will generally require you to create a basement exit that is both accessible and secure. This is especially true if you plan on sleeping in the basement level.
In the event of a fire or other emergency, basements should always have a window opening large enough for a person to escape. To deter criminals, however, be careful to close the entrance with a visible panel or screen.
BENEFITS OF BASEMENT CONSTRUCTION
- The basement will be a terrific solution for your space issues.
- Basements typically have a lot of space and can accommodate people very comfortably. Additionally, it is a one-time expenditure that will pay off in the long run.
- Since they are shielded from direct sunlight, basements typically have lower temperatures.
- When you have a basement, living in an area with high temperatures is like living in a dream.
- If you need to build a heating system or other mechanical equipment in your house, the basement will be the finest place.
DRAWBACKS OF BASEMENT CONSTRUCTION
- There isn't enough sunlight or ventilation in a basement, which leads to wetness and humidity. Your food and goods won't be the only things the basement will ruin; the wall paint will too.
- Living in a region where the water table is high will harm your foundations in addition to your basement.
- If you don't have a lot of money, the basement might not be the best option for you. There would be a lot of fixed costs to pay for, especially for the ventilation, waterproofing, and earthwork.
- As previously mentioned, natural light is less abundant in basements. That implies that you will have to spend money on lighting, and in Pakistan, electricity is costly.
