To create additional space in homes, people are turning to the option of lowering the basement. And bank support is one of the most used methods for this.
What is the bench foot?
It is a process by which you can lower the basement and provide additional structural support to the foundation. No need to dig under the foundation to provide additional basement height. Instead, with a bench base, you can lower the level of the basement floor and widen the foundation structure.
How is the bank support done?
· A general contractor designs and creates a perimeter around the inside of the basement walls.
It will dig to the desired depth around the base.
After completing the excavation process, you will build a new foundation that extends deeper than the depth of the new floor.
Once the new walls are extended up to the depth of the original basement, you will cover it with concrete. The final effect will be as if the house has a concrete bench that runs the length of the foundation wall.
· Thus, it gives a ‘bench effect’ and extra support to the base.
What are the advantages of using the bench support technique?
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Less time consuming.
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It is cheaper than propping up.
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Make no changes to existing foundation walls.
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It involves less excavation work.
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It is a viable option if your house has a common wall and the neighbor does not consent to digging under the foundation.
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You can use the newly created ‘bench effect’ as a display area and make the space attractive.
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It adds a luxurious appeal to the basement, making it eye-catching to potential guests or tenants.
What are the disadvantages of the bench support technique?
The technique is called a ‘space thief’ because it reduces the square footage of the basement. Also, it leaves you limited options to use the bank structure effectively.
· Your home’s market value may not increase.
· It does not involve repairing cracks in the existing structure. If you want the general contractor to repair the cracks, you may have to pay extra money for it.
What precautions are necessary before starting the bank support process?
Examine preliminary factors such as the following:
o The ground on which the house is built
o The required depth of the area
o Intended use of the basement
o Long-term maintenance cost
· Hire an expert like a structural engineer. Have her examine the entire area, including the exterior walls of the house, to see if bench support is the most appropriate technique for your home.
Ask the engineer to verify the basic layout of your house and consider factors such as the level of sanitary sewer connection.
Lowering the basement typically requires a building permit from the municipality, so be sure to obtain one before beginning the process.
· Don’t forget to clean the basement of all furniture or storage items.
Not all houses can handle the support process. Therefore, it is vital to understand the structure of your house before starting basement work. Remember that leaning on a bench is an effortless technique for lowering the basement. But, if done incorrectly, it can cause damage to the house in the future.