Basement excavation is a significant home improvement project that can offer valuable living space while increasing your property’s overall value. It is also one of the most involved projects you can consider for your home, which is why you need a reliable and experienced team by your side, such as us at Snead’s Outdoor Services.
Here are a few things that homeowners should know about basement excavating:
- Feasibility: Not every home is appropriate for basement excavation. The soil composition, water table levels, foundation type, and proximity to nearby structures all influence whether digging further is safe and cost-effective. Before finalizing any plans, a competent contractor from our team can assess if the project is even possible.
- Permits and Regulations: Basement excavating below grade changes the foundation and impacts structural integrity. For this reason, you will likely need the proper approval to move forward with the project. Our team understands these things and knows how deep we can dig, how thick the walls need to be, and what drainage systems are required to prevent flooding or moisture damage.
- Water Management: Speaking of flooding and moisture damage, water management is a vital component of the project. Basements are naturally moist, and excavation increases the potential of leakage unless suitable waterproofing is done. This may include perimeter drains, sump pumps, vapor barriers, and exterior sealing to keep water out and structural integrity intact.
- Cost Considerations: Basement excavating is labor-intensive, requiring heavy equipment, skilled workers, and, in many cases, underpinning of existing foundations. We will provide you with a detailed estimate and keep you posted throughout the process, but it is also a good idea to save a portion of the budget for unexpected expenses, since unforeseen soil or water issues could arise.