Garden Basement
A garden basement is not common in Minnesota, but has advantages. Since foundation walls must extend 3.5 to 5.0 feet below grade, a garden basement can take full advantage of this fact by providing living space in a floor partially below grade without unnecessarily increasing the amount of concrete required and limiting the excavation. The below grade portion of the walls can be concrete, concrete block, or wood. Above grade walls can utilize whatever wall system is being used in the rest of the house. Reliable drainage and waterproofing systems may increase costs above conventional practice but are essential. Installation of windows in the above grade portion of the wall follows conventional practice for the wall construction system being used. A garden basement is typically built with the intention of using it as living space. The design and construction must address all the issues associated with a "habitable basement" including indoor air quality, moisture control, daylighting, ventilation, and egress.