Basement or no basement? That's one of the questions you'll want to consider when working with a new home builder in Fort Wayne, IN. In 2018, less than one-quarter of all new homes had a basement, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Before you finalize the plans for your new home, it helps to weigh the pros and cons of including a basement.
Pro: Additional Storage Space
One of the biggest benefits of including a basement in your home plans is that doing so gives you additional storage space. You can turn a part of your basement into a pantry area, giving you plenty of room to stash cans of food, root vegetables, and other essential items.
A basement can also house your home's important appliances and equipment such as the furnace, water heater, and air conditioner. When equipment is housed in the basement, it's usually easier to reach by you and by any technicians who need to do work on it.
Pro: Additional Living Space
If you decide to include a basement in your custom home plan, you give yourself the option of having additional living space either immediately or in the future. You can choose to finish the basement when you build the house, turning it into an extra bedroom, workspace, or recreational area.
Your home's basement can also give you a safe place to take cover in the event of severe weather. During strong storms or when a tornado warning has been issued, you can seek shelter in the basement until the danger has passed.
Con: Moisture and Humidity Issues
If you love the idea of having a basement, you might find that other organisms do, too. Basements tend to have higher humidity levels than other areas of your home, due to their location under the ground. A humid basement is an inviting environment for mold, which can cause health issues for the people who live in your home.
There are several ways to avoid or correct moisture issues in a basement, including before and after construction. If there are moisture issues after the home is built, installing a dehumidifier in the basement can help to dry it out. Correcting the grading and making sure gutters are properly installed can also help to correct moisture issues.
Con: Higher Cost to Build
It often costs more to build a home with a basement than it does to build on a slab foundation since the process involves digging at least 8 feet below ground. For some homeowners, the extra cost is worth it, as it gives them more storage space or more living space in their home.
If you decide to build a home with a basement, it helps to fully review the cost of doing before you commit. You might find that you're willing to give up certain other amenities or features in exchange for a finished basement.
Lancia Homes offer a 10-year dry basement warranty for homes that have a basement. If you're ready to build your custom home, contact us today to see our floor plans and to learn more about your options.
