Are you looking to convert a crawl space; or an unfinished basement to a rental unit, home office or recreation room? Basement underpinning or lowering your basement; is the process of excavating the area below the concrete slab. This will increase the height of your basement ceiling. And give you enough head space to convert your unfinished basement into a rental unit; home office, or recreation room.
The Processes of Basement Underpinning
There are different methods of basement underpinning with each suitable for a particular situation; and also type of building. Below are the methods of basement underpinning:
- Mass Concrete or Pit method
- Pier and also Beam method
- Cantilever needle beam method
- Mini-piled
- Pile method
- Pre-test method
However, before the underpinning process begins; it is crucial to create temporary support that will hold the foundation as the process goes on. Moreover, in setting up the support system; wooden boards or steel beams are used based on the weight of the load.
Furthermore, basement underpinning or lowering your basement offers several advantages. If you are thinking of lowering your basement, here are the 5 benefits of lowering your basement:
Energy Efficiency
Lowering your basement brings about proper insulation; which is second only to attic insulation. Also, it results in effective basement waterproofing; that contributes to the reduction in energy use and control of moisture and drafts from below. It is a project that will produce a return on investment with lower energy costs that result from energy savings. If you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home, consider basement underpinning.
Perfect Home Upgrade
Above all, basement underpinning is an ideal home upgrade; if you are thinking of increasing the value of your home through a remodeling or renovation project. In addition to strengthening the foundation and creating perfect support; the basement underpinning allows a house to meet the acceptable building code. If a building is at least 20 years old; you can choose the basement underpinning to extend its usability. And prevent the building from sinking or having structural issues.
Peace of Mind
Furthermore, nothing gives homeowners peace like the assurance that their homes are structurally sound; and that there will not be any threats to property and wellness of the occupants of the house. Also with basement underpinning completed; you can rest assured that your home will be free from foundation failure; structural cracks, ceiling cracks, and bowing or leaning walls, etc. In other words, you will have peace of mind about your property.
No Disruptions
Moreover, one of the most significant benefits of basement underpinning is that you do not have to move your belongings or vacate the home while the process is underway. After that, you can go about your everyday activities without any disruptions.
Done by Professionals
Lowering your basement or basement underpinning; is a project that is handled by geotechnical engineers and also other relevant professionals. In conclusion, from design to execution and inspection; all the stages of basement underpinning are undertaken and supervised by professionals.
