The main difference between a basement and a sub basement is their location. A basement is typically located at the lowest level underneath the main floor of a home or building, while a sub basement is located underneath the basement.
Sub basements are usually darker and serve more of a utilitarian purpose than the traditional basement. Sub basements are usually not used for living space and are typically used for storage, mechanical equipment, and utility access.
The structural characteristics of a basement and a sub basement may also be different, such as where support beams, ventilation, and drainage systems are installed.
What is the purpose of a sub basement?
The purpose of a sub basement is to provide extra space for items that cannot fit in the main basement or other parts of the home. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including additional storage space, a workshop, or even a game room.
In some cases, a sub basement can also provide access to other parts of the home, such as underneath decks and patios or to a subterranean garage. Sub basements may also offer additional shelter from the elements, providing a way to stay safe in the event of a severe storm or extreme weather.
Additionally, a sub basement can often be used to extend the living area of a home, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add an extra room to their home.
What are the three types of basements?
The three main types of basements are full basements, partial basements, and crawl spaces.
Full basements are the most common type and are below the main floor of a home. They are typically partially or fully underground, with at least one full wall built from concrete or bricks. Full basements usually provide additional space for storage and can also be used to create additional living or recreational space.
Partial basements are very similar to full basements but are only built on a portion of a property. They may vary in size, but typically there is not enough room to create additional living space. Partial basements can be used for more practical purposes, such as storage, laundry rooms, garages, or other utility purposes.
Crawl spaces are typically minimal in size and are generally not considered suitable for living or working areas. Accessible from the exterior of a house, crawl spaces can be used for ventilation purposes, plumbing repairs, and storage of miscellaneous items.
Crawl spaces typically don’t go as deep as full basements and partial basements.
What is a sub level basement?
A sub level basement is a type of foundation structure in which the living areas of a building are built below its ground level on a separate layer. Typically, this separate layer may be constructed on natural solid ground or on piles beneath the soil.
A sub level basement is popular due to the fact that it increases the building’s useful area, which can be used for a variety of purposes. In some instances, a sub level basement may contain utilities, such as pipes for water or sewers, or may be used for additional living space as recreational rooms, bedrooms, or home offices.
Additionally, sub level basements can increase the value of a home by providing additional living space that can be used for rent or sale. Depending on size, the building code can require additional safety measures, such as steel fire doors and sprinkler systems.
Can I build a room under my basement?
Yes, you can build a room under your basement. Before taking this on, you should always check with your local zoning board to determine which permits or permissions you may need.
Depending on the size of the project, you may also need to seek out a contractor for the job. Basements often have specific drainage systems set up, and any changes to this system must meet certain criteria to avoid damaging the structural integrity of your house and yard.
Once you have the necessary permits and permissions, you can begin to plan the project. Consider what purpose the space will serve, and the layout and necessary materials to complete the project. Before the project can begin, you will also need to consider any safety precautions.
You must inspect for moisture, mold and make sure the area is structurally sound. This may be costly, depending on the size of the project and the complexity of work involved.
Once you’ve completed all the necessary inspections, you can go ahead and begin the build. It is important to pay close attention to the quality of construction during the project, as well as making sure the space is properly ventilated and insulated to prevent moisture and mold problems.
Once you’ve completed the build, you may need to seek out a licensed electrician to install any wiring or other electrical needs. Once that’s done, you can make sure the space is finished to your desire and move in.
Can you dig a basement next to an existing house?
Yes, it is possible to dig a basement next to an existing house. However, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration before attempting such a project. First, it is important to check with local authorities to make sure that construction of a basement is allowed in your area and that the existing house is structurally sound enough to support the excavation.
If the area’s zoning regulations allow for a basement, then an engineer will need to assess the soil conditions and existing foundation for the existing home to determine an appropriate plan for support during the excavation process.
After this step is completed, a contractor can be hired to begin the job of creating the basement. An important part of the process is that the soil must be removed evenly and continuously reinforced with structural supports such as pilings, cribbing or underpinning techniques throughout the entire project.
When the excavation process is finished, concrete can be poured to form the foundation walls of the basement, and then new walls and floors can be built. Ultimately, it is possible to build a basement next to an existing house, as long as the right precautions are taken.
Can a basement extend past the house?
Yes, a basement can certainly extend past the house. It is common for basements to either be partially or fully underground and project out from the main structure of the home. Depending upon the size and amount of space a homeowner wants, they can extend their basement to any length they desire.
It is important to note that in order to extend a basement, extra excavation, foundation work, waterproofing, and preparation is often needed. It may also be necessary to include additional structural support.
As a result, it is important to seek help from an experienced contractor and architect when attempting to extend a basement past the house because it can be a very involved process.
Is it illegal to rent a basement in NY?
The laws regarding renting a basement in New York vary by municipality. In the City of New York, it is not illegal to rent a basement as a living space; however, occupiable basement spaces must be registered and licensed as either a Class A or Class B Multiple Dwelling, and must comply with all relevant regulations as specified by the NYC Department of Buildings.
This includes meeting certain standards for health and safety, such as requirements for heating, ventilation, and fire safety. Additionally, basement apartments must have one means of egress, such as an access door or fire escape.
Basements must also have windows that are of a certain size and height for ventilation and light purposes. Lastly, all basements must be registered with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and permission of the landlord is required before any permanent alterations can be made.
Outside of the City of New York, rules governing basement rentals vary by municipal and local jurisdictions, so it is important to consult with a local City office to ensure compliance.
How many types of basements are there?
There are four main types of basements: full, partial, walkout, and daylight. A full basement is a basement that is entirely underground, with no windows or access to the outside. Partial basements are typically partially underground, with windows or access to the outside.
Walkout basements are partially underground and have walkout access to the outside. Finally, daylight basements are partially underground, with the majority of the wall and ceiling area made of windows or transparent material to allow natural light to come in.
What do you call a room below ground level?
A room below ground level is often referred to as a basement or cellar. Basements are typically constructed when a building is first built and are found below the main floor of the structure. They can differ in design and size, with the most common use being a storage space.
Basements can also be used as living space, such as bedrooms, home offices, entertainment rooms, and more. More modern basement designs often incorporate aboveground windows and other improvements such as insulation and waterproofing.
In addition, basements can also be dug out if they’re not already included in the construction of the home.
