Types Of Basements
Basements are generally used as a utility space for a building. It is usually where your boiler, water heater, air conditioning system, breaker panel or fuse box, and so on, are located. It may also be used as a living space or a fitness place. Following are the basement types.
Walk-Out Basement / Daylight Basement
A basement contained in a home located on a slope is termed as a walk-out basement or a daylight basement. Part of the floor will be above ground. It has a doorway leading outside. The area that is below the ground can be taken as the actual basement area. Fully buried basement homes have good ventilation. It helps to prevent mold and dampness problems. A daylight basement can be used as a garage, living space or a maintenance room. The buried portion of the basement can be used as a laundry room or can be used for storage, HVAC, and hot water tanks.
Look-Out Basement
A basement whose walls are sufficiently above the ground level is called a look-out basement. Some of the windows of the look-out basement will be above ground level. A look-out basement is constructed when the site slopes are so gentle that constructing a walk-out basement is not practical. Look-out basements are very economical to construct.
Walk-Up Basement
Any basement that has an outside entrance through a stairwell is called a walk-up basement. To prevent rainwater from collecting in the stairwell, the walk-up basements are fitted with basement doors or bulkhead doors.
Fully Underground Cellar (Finished)
A fully underground cellar is a type of basement that is located below the ground level in a home. It is mostly used to store coal or wine. A cellar is constructed in such a way that it remains at a constant temperature throughout the year. It will have a small opening or window to eliminate stale or damp air.
Underground Crawl Space
An underground crawl space is a type of basement that offers a convenient access to pipes, substructures and a variety of other hard-to-access areas. An underground crawl space has a very limited space. Its height may be as little as one foot. The surface is often soil.
It is important to maintain your basement on a regular basis. Basement moisture problems are very common. It can not only be annoying and uncomfortable but can also lead to health problems.
