Why are basements so common in the US?

And while some homes are better built without basements because of moisture issues, there are still millions of existing basements that need help. The reason we have basements at all is because years ago people needed to have frost-free spaces before the days that heating systems kept homes above freezing all the time.

Why do American houses not have basements?

When you build a home, the foundations need to be below the depth of the frost line. In the north of the country (and particularly in the midwest) this requires deep foundations, thus making a basement far more practical.

Why are houses in America not concrete?

Mostly zoning and standardization. Houses in the U.S. are built of wood frame and plywood and sheetrock because other houses in the U.S. are built of wood frame and plywood and sheetrock. Economics of scale results in cheaper houses for everyone, or at least cheaper than they would be otherwise.

Can you build a basement in the UK?

Is it legal to build a house with a basement in the UK? Whether you’re digging a basement under your existing home or have one planned in your new property design, building a basement is usually legal.

Are basements a Northern thing?

Building foundations need to be below the frost line to avoid freezing and cracking in pipes. In cooler climates, the frost line is several feet below the surface, which is why many Northern homes have basements.

Why do most houses in the US have basements?

One of the main reasons why northern buildings often have basements is the depth of the frost line. When you build a home, the foundations need to be below the depth of the frost line. In the north of the country (and particularly in the midwest) this requires deep foundations, thus making a basement far more practical.

Is it worth it to build a basement in the UK?

Generally no. Some say this is because of the difficulties in keeping such areas dry but it’s probably mostly because housing in the UK is always built down to a price and digging out and lining a basement is just too expensive for builders who cannot recover their costs in an improved asking price.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of basements?

The advantages of basements are fairly clear – they represent additional space in a house that can be converted into usable space. Failing that, they are useful areas to use either as storage or as a home for appliances, away from the main body of the house.

Do houses on the east coast have basements?

Many older homes on the East coast do have basements, although new-build homes follow the national average rather than show stark regional divides. WHY ARE THERE FEWER BASEMENTS IN THE SOUTH?