Farmhouse House Plans With Basement

House Plans with Basements

Basements can add a whole new dimension to your home by providing extra living space and storage possibilities below ground level and still keep your home within a smaller overall building area on the surface of the land you own which can increase the value of your house when it comes time to sell it again as you move on to another house in the future during your life time on earth . Basements are often used for storage or as workshops and utility areas but with some planning and design work they can be transformed into comfortable and even elegant additional living areas in your home that the whole family will enjoy spending a lot of time in during all times of the year such as hot summer days or cold winter nights . If you are considering building a new home or renovating an existing one here are some things to look for when planning a basement :

Size and Layout

The size and layout of your basement will depend on the size of your home and the amount of space you need . A small basement can be used for storage or as a workshop while a larger basement can be finished into additional living areas such as bedrooms , bathrooms , family rooms or other living rooms of your choice . When planning the layout of your basement consider how you will be using the space and where you want the windows and doors to be placed . If you are planning to use the basement as a living area choose windows that are large enough to allow for natural light and ventilation .

Ventilation

Good ventilation is important to prevent moisture problems in basements . Make sure to include windows and or install exhaust fans to help air out the basement and keep it dry .

Entry and Egress

In addition to the main entry to the basement from the first floor or main level of the house you may also want to consider adding a separate exterior entry . This can be useful for bringing in large items or for providing an escape route in case of a fire .

Utilities

The basement is a good place to locate the utilities for your home such as the water heater , electrical panel , and furnace and air handler or air conditioning unit as they are close to come up through the basement floor from the ground outside for ease of install and service by the utility companies . Also the water , electric , gas , and cable lines come into the house through the basement from outside underground so it is easier to tap into them down there for use on other floors of your house or home .

Storage

One of the best uses of a basement is for storage . You can use it to store seasonal items , sporting goods , or other items that you do not need on a regular basis .

Cost

The cost of building a basement will vary depending on the size and features you choose . However , it is important to factor in the cost of finishing the basement into your budget .

Value

Adding a basement to your home can add value to your property . A finished basement can increase the living space of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers .

Other things to consider when planning a basement

Purpose

Before you start planning your basement layout , take some time to think about how you will be using the space . Will it be used for storage , recreation , or as a workshop ? This will help you determine the size and layout of your basement .

Budget

How much can you spend on your basement project ? This will help you narrow down your choices and make decisions about the size , features , and finishes you want .

Location

Where will your basement be located on your property ? This will affect the size and layout of your basement as well as the amount of natural light you will have .

Building Code Requirements

Make sure your basement meets all local building code requirements . This will ensure that your basement is safe and structurally sound .

Water and Radon

If you live in an area with a high water table , you will need to take precautions to keep your basement dry . You may also need to install a radonMitigation system .