9 Common Basement Types: Which One Should You Choose?

Thinking of adding more square footage to your home without breaking the bank? Look no further than your basement!  Believe it or not, this underutilized space can be transformed into a functional and inviting area, adding significant value to your property. Finished basements boast an impressive average return on investment of 70 percent.

But before you start hammering away, there’s a crucial decision to make: which type of basement is right for your needs and budget? Let’s delve into the different types of basements to help you create the perfect underground haven.

Types of Basements

1. Crawlspace Basement

A crawlspace basement is the smallest type of basement, typically only large enough for crawling rather than walking. It provides access to various home systems such as plumbing, HVAC, and wiring, often with exposed pipes and dirt floors. It serves primarily as a space for utility fixtures and limited storage.

2. Partial Basement

Offering more breathing room than a crawlspace, a partial basement extends only partially beneath the main floor. Structurally, it’s located beneath the original part of the house, while the addition may be built on a slab without a basement underneath. Partial basements are commonly about half the size of the main floor and can serve as storage space or additional living

3. Full Basement

The king of basement types, a full basement extends entirely under the house, offering the most potential living space. As already mentioned before, finished full basements boast a whopping 70% average return on investment, making them a homeowner’s dream.

4. Cellar Basement

A cellar basement is a subterranean area typically used for storing wine, produce, and preserved foods. It provides ample space for storage and can also function as a shelter during tornadoes, commonly found in the United States.

5. Daylight or Lookout Basement

A daylight or lookout basement is a partially underground space found in modern homes, with only about half of its area situated below ground level. Unlike traditional cellars, these basements typically feature windows that extend to about chest height, allowing ample natural light and ventilation.

6. Walkout Basement

A walkout base­ment design involves constructing it on slope­d ground, allowing direct outdoor access via stairs. Commonly se­en in hillside homes or those­ near lakes or ponds, walkout baseme­nts provide versatility and natural light, unlike e­nclosed basements. This fe­ature appeals to numerous home­buyers, making it a sought-after amenity.

7. Storm Shelters Basement

During intense­ weather eve­nts like tornadoes and heavy storms, a se­cure basement space­ known as a storm shelter provides a sturdy have­n. This basement type, often constructe­d beneath a garage floor, shie­lds occupants from perilous winds, airborne debris, and additional thre­ats.

8. Walkup Basement

A walkup basement is a type of basement that features access through a door installed at ground level, typically accompanied by a staircase leading to the main floor of the house. This design allows for convenient entry and exit directly from outside, often onto a landing below ground level with steps leading up to the surface.

9. Dugout Basements

A dugout basement is a type of basement commonly found in older homes, created by excavating the ground beneath the house. Also known as underpinning, this method is utilized to add extra space to a home more affordably. Dugout basements feature exposed dirt walls and floors, making them less expensive than fully finished basements. However, costs can increase significantly if homeowners choose to finish and upgrade the space for livability.

What Is the Most Common Type of Basement Foundation?

The most common type of basement foundation is the full basement. It maximizes your underground space for living areas, storage, or utilities, making it a versatile and valuable addition to your home.

Types of Basements: Which One Should You Choose?

So, you’ve explored the different basement types! Picking the perfect one depends on your needs. If you plan to stay in your home long-term and want the most extra space, a full finished basement offers the most value and square footage.

But don’t worry if that’s not your style! There are many other basements to choose from. By picking the one that fits you best, you’ll gain a fantastic space you’ll love for years to come.

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Cellar Vs Basement: What is the Difference