Different home interiors come with unique features and offer quality living if the entire house structure is well-designed and implemented by the architecture. Typically, potential homeowners lack a complex and technical understanding of the home construction business and services, so architects and designers are hired to properly manage and design the blueprint at the initial level. The plans can only be well implemented if there is a well-thought blueprint and a framework based on which constructions occur. Some people prefer having extra space, someplace like a man cave, and probably a considerable hall like a basement for specific purposes and events. The foundation you choose comes down to personal preference and budget.
What does a crawl space basement look like?
What is Crawl Space?
A crawl space is a hollow area under some homes’ floors between the ground and the first floor. Crawl space is elevated between 1 and 3 feet above a slab foundation supported by concrete blocks that bolster the structure’s walls. Usually, the crawling space is just high enough for someone to enter by crawling. Access to the crawl space must be provided through openings no smaller than 18 x 24 inches.
What is the basement?
A basement represents one or more building floors entirely or partly below the ground floor. Daylight basements can be used for several purposes, such as garages, maintenance rooms, or living spaces.
Now, let us see the difference between the basement and crawl space.
Crawl Space vs. Basement
The difference between the crawl space and the basement is that the crawl space is the hollow area under the floors of some homes between the ground and the first floor. In contrast, the basement represents one or more floors of a wholly or partly building below the ground floor.
The minimum height for a basement is 7 feet (6 feet for bathrooms), while the crawl space is a maximum of 3 feet high. In addition, the basement is a hole that ends in a concrete slab, while the crawl space is 3 feet above a slab foundation supported by concrete blocks that bolster the structure’s walls.
There has been a long-standing debate on the difference between having a crawl space and a separate basement in houses. Again, there is a vast difference between space, purpose, structural engineering, and adjustment depending on the preference. A basement is a proper living space that allows individuals to reside sophisticatedly; however, a crawl space is not constructed for living purposes. It just contains ample space to accommodate light storage and equipment. Basements are more functional and conventional and offer a versatile approach. A well-designed house with a cellar drastically adds to the house’s value; however, crawl spaces can be adjusted if there is a lack of open space for a proper, well-structured basement. Crawl space tends to be unoccupied, unfinished, and narrow between the ground floor and a house. As the name indicates, crawl spaces can only temporarily accommodate people who can crawl to finish their tasks.
The foundation is considered the most significant component when constructing a house. The foundation depends on multiple factors, such as the nature of the soil, wind direction, weather conditions, the nature of the slope, and the quality of the water drainage system in the area. Local building standards often dictate the choice of foundation building according to preference and the abovementioned determinants. Before construction, crawl spaces are usually suggested as part of the foundation building, depending on factors. The ground mainly supports the crawl space by approximately 2 feet. Steel walls are erected by making ground the foundation to give support. Stem walls are often replaced by alternatives known as pier and beams.
This involves a rebar process dug into the holes filled with concrete to render maximum support. The concrete-filled piers are tied into beams that reflect the exact nature and shape of stem walls to support the house above them. Most architects suggest crawl spaces with high water quantity and increased moisture. This way, the home can be protected from excessive water buildup in certain instances, mainly when increased rains occur. The crawl space allows electricians and plumbers to install and wire the piping and necessary utilities easily, all stored and safely secured in a shared space that is not only easily accessible but also equipped with a repair system.
Having crawl spaces comes with a lot of benefits. It is inexpensive, and if the house construction is under a tight budget, then creating a crawl space is an ideal option, as little concrete is used, reducing the overall cost. Most maintenance issues can be handled conveniently by crawling into the access door below a home, allowing easy access to the lowest part of the house. It is also preferred when earthquakes are common, as they exhibit a strong foundation. It is more likely to be durable and keep the house intact than a slab foundation that is more likely to crack during an earthquake. It can even serve as a storage area if well prepared with mold-resistant materials and well insulated.
The separation under the house also discourages termite infestation, and owners can benefit from a detailed termite inspection because of the space access. Still, space is mostly treated for termites before the construction process. A crawl space can level the platform by adjusting the piers’ length if the house is built on a slope or uneven ground. It is an excellent source of ventilation and allows the air to circulate underneath. This will help keep the house cool and airy in hot and extreme conditions. An erected crawl space will also save the home from significant floods and provide safety if the water level rises. However, crawl spaces’ construction often takes longer, and the limited spaces make it difficult for disabled people to access.
Generally used as a utility space for a building, basements are also known as cellars, and they are a floor entirely or partially below the ground floor. Boilers, heaters, geysers, panels, fuse boxes, and air-conditioning systems are wired in most houses. It also provides extra storage, having an ideal place to store miscellaneous items. Some owners prefer to keep a proper living room by adding appealing furniture, but it can also be a perfect space for storage and other items. They can be transformed into an entertainment space and used as an ample space for training, working, exercising, or office space.
Basements can also be used for installation spaces for pressure tanks, water boilers, or furnaces to provide safety and aesthetics. However, frequent maintenance is required, adding extra cost to the process. Underground systems need much work to function correctly in wiring and construction. Lighting will always be a nuisance for basements as windows are impossible to fit. There is no concept of sunlight in basements during the daytime, and there is always an extra need for light fixtures. Basements are also prone to humidity, leaving the room damp and full of unpleasant smells. It can also create a health hazard, especially for people who have asthma and other breathing problems. It would be best to have good insulation or a decent humidifier to avoid humidity problems.
The type of foundations before the construction process depends on the personal budget and preferences. For example, some people prefer having a basement as an alternative to a proper room. Some people who want good storage space mostly look for crawl spaces. However, both are excellent spaces and add value to the entire house.
From 2022 onwards, Mark has also been contributing author of home repair articles at nimblefreelancer.com.
Read more on Mark Brown's biography page.
Contact Mark: mark@nimblefreelancer.com