When A Basement Is A Wise Investment

When you are building a new home, you have many design options to consider. One major choice is whether or not to build a basement. As a homeowner, adding a basement gives you the square footage that you need in a more economical way than adding more upstairs space. A basement also offers other advantages. When you are planning your home, consider whether a basement is the right choice for your family's needs.

Region

When you live in an area with a cold climate, the foundation will have to be dug below the frost line so that it can rest on stable ground. Since the foundation has to go that deep, going ahead and having your excavation contractor dig a basement is quite economical. Although basements can be added just about anywhere, they are most practical in northern climates. 

Home Value

Constructing a finished basement can double your living space, making it more comfortable for your family and adding significant resale value to your home. In fact, a finished basement costs about 1/3 to 1/2 what constructing additional rooms above ground would cost you. You also get the maximum amount of use from your land, which is especially important when your lot is of limited size. You are much less likely to outgrow your new house if you have a full basement.  

Safety

Tornadoes and other wind storms are a dangerous part of life in North America. Every year, numerous people are killed in both the United States and Canada, most often from the deadly debris that violent winds toss around.  Basements are one of the best places to find shelter during these ferocious storms. In fact, an interior room located in the basement well away from windows and not directly below upstairs appliances offers you maximum protection during a tornado. The peace of mind you gain is well worth the construction investment. 

When you are building a new house, you may be tempted to save money by not adding a basement. However, you recoup the cost of this construction in several ways. You can double your living space for far less than adding upstairs space. If you live in an area that requires a deep foundation, going ahead and digging a basement does not add that much cost to the project. Plus, having a basement is an excellent safety feature. Constructing a basement is the best option for many homeowners. For more information, talk to a professional like Catmandu Excavating & Bobcat Services.