Basement or No Basement?
While basements are common in cold-climate construction, the decision to include a basement concerns a variety of health, construction, and cost-related issues. Basements provide a range of useful functions, including additional storage, laundry and mechanical equipment space, refuge space from tornados, and potential living space (given proper construction). However, not all basements are created equally. If a basement is to be considered "livable," which means that the quality of the space is acceptable for human occupation, then it is essential to address issues of indoor air quality, moisture and soil gas control, egress, and daylighting. Since the cost per square foot of a "livable basement" is typically less than above grade construction, the additional expense may be acceptable if the space can be inhabited. The decision to construct a livable basement includes health, environmental, and cost-related considerations.

See also Analysis & Recommendations Assemblies: Foundation.

Citations Foundation System:

Cheple, Marilou and Pat Huelman, "Construction Technologies," House One Research Report, Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota, 2003.

Lstiburek, Joseph. Builder's Guide to Cold Climates, Newtown, CT: Taunton Press, 2000.