Is it good to live in a basement?

Some health risks to people who live in basements have been noted, for example mold, radon, and risk of injury/death due to fire. It has been suggested that a basement suite is the last type of dwelling a tenant should look for because of the risk of mold.

Why you shouldn't live in a basement apartment?

Cons of a basement apartment

The biggest structural con is that the ceiling can be a lot lower than in apartments that are above the ground, Stoddard says. When you couple that with the minimal lighting, it's not an ideal living situation for some who prefer their spaces to be open and bright.

Can you get sick from living in a basement?

Mold is the leading cause of poor indoor air quality in basements and can have dire effects on your health. In fact, in about 80% of “sick building syndrome” cases, where poor air quality spreads, mold infestations (black mold and other types) are the main cause of illness.

What are the benefits of living in a basement?

Are basements unhealthy?

Even an apparently clean, finished basement often carries ten times the pollution levels as upper floors. And, because these pollutants are buoyant and therefore rise, they often spoil air in rooms above them. But, why does the air in basements smell unhealthy enough that we've coined colloquial phrase after it?

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Is it healthy to sleep in basement?

While stuffy air below-grade won't affect anyone living upstairs, it can trigger asthma attacks or other respiratory problems in those who spend time in a basement bedroom or rec room.

Does living in a basement affect mental health?

Liz Sinclair Kruth, a registered psychotherapist in Guelph, Ont., says that living in a basement apartment can potentially exacerbate, or even cause mental health challenges. “There is often less natural light in basement dwellings, which can lead to feeling depressed,” says Sinclair Kruth.

Are basements worth it?

Finishing Your Basement Adds Value to Your Home

According to Zillow, homeowners can expect to see an average of 70 percent return on their investment with a basement finish/remodel.

Why do you want a basement?

If designed and used correctly, basements can create very useful living areas, perfect for entertaining guests, gathering together for family game nights, and so much more. Besides additional living space, basements can also provide extra storage, a separate bedroom/bathroom, and even a safe room.

Do basement apartments have more bugs?

One of the most significant is the increased incidence of insect problems. Because a basement typically lacks natural light and provides a moist environment, it is an ideal home for many types of bugs, including roaches, spiders, crickets and sow bugs.

How do I purify the air in my basement?

Are you wondering how to improve air quality in the basement? There are several ways. Use an air purifier, dry the moisture out, keep windows closed, seal cracks and gaps, remove VOC's, test for radon, and monitor carbon monoxide.

How do you get fresh air in your basement?

Placing a fan in front of a window and pointing it so that the indoor air is pushed outdoors. If you have a second window or door in the basement, you can crack it slightly to further improve ventilation. Installing an exhaust fan with a ventilation pipe.

Is it OK to have a bedroom in the basement?

In short, yes. You can use your basement as a bedroom, but you have to ensure that it complies with the proper building codes. Basement living spaces require an emergency exit and rescue openings, also known as an egress code.

Should you open windows in basement?

Always Shut Basement Windows

It could mean downtime and disruption to your normal life. Moisture buildup can also damage your floor covering and insulation. Your air conditioner will suck this moist air through the subfloor. When this air gets into the rest of the house, it will warp your wood floors too.

Do basements always smell musty?

It's true that basements' qualities factor into the musty smells—being fully or partially below-grade, less light, less fresh air. But not all basements need to become musty. Plus, basements that are already musty can often be turned around with a few simple, inexpensive methods.

What are the pros and cons of a basement?

Is it worth buying a house with a basement?

Accessibility of Major Systems: Typically, basement homes give you easier access to to pipes, wires and ducts than homes on slabs or crawl spaces. Basements are an ideal location for water heaters, water pressure tanks, water softeners and furnaces as well.

Is it good to buy a house without basement?

Older homes built with crawl spaces or rooms without basements supported slightly above the ground often have very cold floors. The absence of a basement can also indicate an insufficient foundation that can heave seasonally with frost. This is why I wouldn't buy an older home that has no basement.

Does adding a bathroom in the basement add value?

Adding a basement bathroom can increase your home's resale value by 10%-20%. It also can turn a wasted space into an enjoyable addition to your home. The average basement bathroom will cost $3,000-$25,000, depending on the existing plumbing and condition of your basement.

How much does a basement cost?

In terms of average costs, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2,800 to as much as $34,500 for a basement finishing project, which is about $7 to $23 per square foot, including labor and materials, according to Angi.

Is it cheaper to build a basement or an upstairs?

Generally speaking, building up tends to be less expensive than a basement. That said, not too long ago, lumber was at an all-time high and basements were the better option. Check with your builder and they can advise you on the pros, cons, and cost of each.

Why do I get dizzy in the basement?

Some symptoms of sick building syndrome include headaches, dizziness, nausea, irritating eyes, nose and throat; a dry cough, dry or itchy skin, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and sensitivity to odors. Too much moisture in the basement is one of the main causes of sick building syndrome.

Why do I cough in my basement?

Health Problems

This is because, without that moisture in the air, it's much harder for your throat and mouth to stay hydrated naturally. This leads to a dry or sore throat, coughing, or even wheezing. In general, low humidity is uncomfortable.

Should I move into a basement apartment?

Not only do basement apartments allow renters to save big on rent, but they can also offer unique advantages over above-ground apartments. That said, cons like a lack of natural light and a propensity for common basement issues are definitely worth considering.

How can I make my basement healthy?