Basement is – Have you ever heard the term basement? Yup, that’s the room underground, usually used as a shelter or even as an extra room in the house. So, you must be curious, right? basement That? Why do so many houses or buildings have this one room? Don’t worry, in this article we will discuss it thoroughly Basement: Definition, Types, Functions and Construction Materials.
So, apart from providing protection from extreme weather such as tornadoes, basement It also has many other functions that you may not know about. From storage space, function rooms, to parking, everything can be found underground! You will also know the types basement existing ones, as well as the construction materials commonly used in their manufacture. Curious, right? Come on, keep reading this article, who knows, there may be information that you can use to renovate your dream house or building!
Not only that, here we will also discuss why you choose the right construction materials basement that’s very important. So, if you are considering making one basementyou can immediately know what to pay attention to so that your underground building remains safe, strong and functional. So, don’t go anywhere yet, keep reading this article!
List of contents
What is a Basement?
Basement is an important part of a building that is located below ground level. So, if you imagine the room under a house or building, that’s what is called a basement. Basement, simply put, is the part of a building that is located below ground level. Its functions can vary, from storage space, parking space, to additional areas that can be developed into work spaces or entertainment spaces.
This basement is generally below the ground floor, and is usually connected directly to the house or main building. You’ve probably often heard words like “basement”, “home basement”, or “underground parking space”, right? Well, all of that can be categorized in the basement.
But, why do people like to use basements? Of course, because the basement can be a very functional space, guys. Apart from that, basements can also take advantage of space that is not really used, especially in big cities where land is limited.
Types of Basements You Need to Know
When we talk about basements, there’s not just one type, you know! There are several types of basements that you can find, depending on your needs and the design of the building itself. Come on, let’s discuss them one by one!
1. Basement Kering (Dry Basement)
This dry basement is the type of basement that can be said to be the most ideal. The room is not easily exposed to water or humidity. Usually, this type of basement is designed with a good drainage system, so rainwater or seepage from outside cannot enter.
This dry basement can be used for many things, ranging from storage space, work space, or even entertainment areas such as a home theater. But of course, to ensure the basement remains dry and not damp, extra attention is needed in terms of construction, guys.
2. Basement Basah (Wet Basement)
A wet basement, as the name suggests, is a type of basement that is more frequently exposed to moisture and can become somewhat waterlogged. Usually, wet basements are not equipped with a good drainage system, or perhaps because they are located close to groundwater sources.
This wet basement is more susceptible to becoming a place for mold and bacteria to grow, so you have to be more careful if you decide to use it as a storage room. Usually, this type of basement is more often used as a technical room or utility room that is not accessed too often.
3. Basement Semi-Kering (Semi-Dry Basement)
Well, there are also basements that are not completely dry, but also not very wet. This semi-dry basement has a fairly controlled humidity level, but it is not as ideal as a dry basement. Usually, this type requires additional protection, such as using a dehumidifier or a better ventilation system to prevent excessive humidity.
This type of basement can be used to store items that are not too sensitive to humidity, such as household furniture that is not too prone to damage.
4. Half Submerged Basement (Daylight Basement)
This semi-submerged basement is a type of basement that is half submerged underground, but the top part can be exposed to sunlight. This type of basement usually has large windows or even an exit door, so it can be used as a comfortable living space or office.
Because the top of the basement is exposed to light, the atmosphere inside can be brighter and not as dark as a normal basement. Very suitable for those of you who want to add space without having to add floors to your house!
Basement Functions That Amaze You
You must be curious, what is the basement actually used for? Well, the basement has many functions, you know, depending on the needs of the occupants of the house or building. Below are some general functions that you can get from having a basement.
1. Storage
The most common function of a basement is as a storage room. With a basement, you can store items that are rarely used, such as household appliances, seasonal clothes, or even old items that you don’t want to throw away. Basements are also ideal for storing heavy equipment that you don’t want to store in the main room.
2. Parking Space
For houses that have more than one car, the basement can be a practical parking area. So, you don’t need to worry about a lack of parking space in your yard. This underground parking space can also keep your vehicle safe from extreme heat or rain.
3. Additional Space for Family Activities
Basements are often converted into additional comfortable rooms for family activities. For example, you can create a cozy family room, mini cinema room, or even a private gym. With a little creative touch, the basement can be a fun place to gather with family and friends.
4. Office Space or Work Space
So, for those of you who work from home, the basement can be an ideal work space. Because it is separated from the main area of the house, you can focus more and not be distracted by other activities. Apart from that, with the right design, the basement can be a comfortable space for working with sufficient natural lighting.
5. Technology Equipment Storage
For those of you who like collecting electronic devices or have a lot of technical items, the basement can also be the right place to store this equipment. Usually, this room is safer because it is separate from the family room and away from distractions.
Basement Construction Materials You Need to Consider
Apart from its many functions, you also need to know the construction materials used to make a basement. You see, the material chosen will determine the durability and comfort of the basement itself. The following are some materials commonly used to build basements:
1. Reinforced concrete
Reinforced concrete is the most common material used to build basements, because concrete has high strength and is durable. Reinforced concrete also has good resistance to soil and water pressure, which is very important for basements that are located below ground level.
2. Natural Stone or Brick
Some basements also use natural stone or brick as the main material for the walls. Bricks, for example, can give a natural and solid impression to a basement. The downside to this material is that it can absorb moisture, so it is important to ensure a good drainage system.
3. Steel Frame
For basements with more modern structures, using a steel frame could be an option. This steel frame is strong and light, and can be assembled more quickly. The use of steel frames is usually combined with concrete to provide maximum strength to the basement.
4. Precast Concrete Panels
For fast and efficient basement construction, precast concrete panels could be an option. This material is very practical and is often used in commercial building projects. These precast concrete panels are produced in a factory and then installed at the construction site, so the work process is faster and costs less.
Proper Basement Care
After building a basement, you also need to ensure its maintenance. Basements, especially those underground, are susceptible to moisture, mold, and structural damage. Here are some care tips that you need to pay attention to:
1. Check the Drainage System
Make sure the drainage system in the basement is functioning properly. A poor drainage system can cause water to enter the basement and damage the building structure.
2. Moisture Handling
Excessive humidity in the basement can cause damage to stored items, as well as trigger the growth of mold. Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity under control, especially in the rainy season.
3. Routine Checking
Regularly check the basement walls to look for signs of cracks or water seepage. The sooner a problem is detected, the easier it is to fix it.
Cover
OK, guys, now you know what a basement is, its types, and the construction materials used, right? Basements aren’t just about shelter, they can also be a cool solution for utilizing basement space that is sometimes unused. So, if you are thinking about renovating your house or building a new one, a basement could be a smart choice, you know!
So, if you are curious more about basements, their types, or want to know more about their function, don’t hesitate to look for more information. Maybe you will get a fresh idea for your next project! Don’t forget, share your experiences too, who knows, it could be an inspiration for others.
