A cellar is an enclosed space beneath your house. They are commonly located below the halfway curb line. Some people have cellars attached to their basements and other outside buildings, while others build separate cellars under their main building. A cellar is typically accessible via a staircase, trap door, ladder, or other means. Here are a few things to know about both. The most obvious difference between a cellar and a basement is the location. A cellar is generally much deeper than a basement.
Root cellars
A root cellar differs from a Basement Remodeling Boston in that the roots are kept in an open space. Root vegetables are often bitter if the roots are not stored in a cool area. To avoid this, place fruits and vegetables near the outtake vent or lower on shelves. Root cellars are also vulnerable to damage from critters. They must be protected from animals, so install mesh over the intake and outtake vents. Tightly-fitting lids are essential for preventing critter infestation.
The biggest disadvantage to a root cellar is the lack of control over temperature and humidity. Root cellars are a good option for mild climates, but you’ll need lots of square footage. To build one, dig into a hillside or a natural area. You can use concrete, rock, logs, or wood, and cover it with earth. For added insulation, you can use tarps. If you’re planning to use the root cellar for long-term food storage, you’ll probably need to build a concrete floor with footings below the frost line.
Semi-basement kitchens
Unlike a true basement, semi-basement kitchens are designed to be lighter and more accessible than their more traditional counterparts. Traditionally, these rooms served as servants’ quarters and kitchens. They may have interior windows but are typically too high to provide natural light. Many people opt to use them for storage instead of a living space. Here are some useful tips for converting your basement into a functional kitchen.
The layout of your basement kitchen will depend on its use. The size and space of the basement will dictate the type of cabinets and countertops you need. A kitchen designed for entertaining purposes will have different storage requirements than one used for preparing meals. Depending on your needs and personal aesthetic, you may need to add more storage or eliminate it altogether. You may want to consider installing a bar, which can be an additional dining space, as well as a workspace for preparation and eating.
Ceiling heights
Increasing the height of your cellar or Basement Remodeling Boston MA is a great way to increase the space’s usability and resale value. Basements often have lower ceilings and lack natural light, so raising them will improve the space’s comfort level. In addition, raising the ceiling can also give you more space to install ductwork and pipes, making it possible to create a more comfortable living space.
The International Residential Code, developed by the International Code Council, specifies minimum ceiling heights in basements. This code applies to houses with two to three stories and family dwellings. The height of basement ceilings is generally not less than seven feet, though the height may vary from state to state. For example, in Illinois, the local building code specifies a height that’s slightly higher than the IRC’s.
Protection from water
One of the most important factors to consider when waterproofing a basement or cellar is how to make sure that no water is allowed to seep through. Some basement waterproofing methods are applied on the walls and floors of a basement. However, these methods only protect the surface of the basement, not the underlying moisture issues. If water seeps through the walls and floors, the main culprit is probably the exterior walls and foundation.
Often, water seeps into the basement through foundation cracks. To avoid this, you should direct water away from your foundation wall by sloping the yard by two percent or more. If this is impossible, install a drainage system to direct water away from your home. Make sure that your gutters are installed correctly and that your yard is sloped away from the house. Finally, make sure that you close any cracks or open connections.
Cost
The cost of a cellar versus a basement can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the space. If the basement is located in a suburban area, a cellar may be easier to build on a budget. If the basement is located in a city, there are many advantages to building in an underground space. However, there are some downsides as well. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of basements and cellars.
Conclusion
One major disadvantage to a basement is that it is more likely to leak and develop dampness. This can have a negative effect on the foundation of a house. A basement is also great for root crops. Traditional root cellars were often used to store root crops during the winter months. This is an excellent way to conserve energy without sacrificing quality. In addition, a basement can double as a food storage space.
