Basement or No Basement?

When you’re building a new home, you have a lot of options to choose from. Bathtub or shower? Bigger closet or bigger bathroom? Dining room or office space? It may seem like the big decisions are never ending. But one huge decision that has to be made is whether or not you want to add a basement to your home. Basements have a lot of benefits, but there are also a few other things to consider before making the decision to add a basement while building a brand new home.

Advantages to adding a basement to your home:

  • Storm Shelter – It’s no surprise that Wisconsin weather is unpredictable and can be severe at times. One of the biggest benefits of a basement is a built in storm shelter to protect your family.
  • Extra Square Footage – Another huge benefit of a basement is the extra square footage you get without expanding the property needed to build. Basement space is great for a game room, childrens playroom, home theater, entertainment space, and so much more.
  • Increased Home Value – Because of the added square footage, basements add significant value to your home.
  • Warmer Main Floor – Because heat rises, homes with basements tend to be heated better during the colder months. Basements also add a cooler space during warm summer months!
  • Added Storage – Basements are an excellent place to store utilities like water heater, furnace, and other plumbing essentials to get them off your main floor!

Disadvantages to Basements

  • Increased Flood Potential – If you live somewhere prone to flooding, a basement can increase the likelihood that your home will flood when water builds up around your home.
  • Moisture Concerns – Basements are a breeding ground for mold and mildew if not well maintained, though there are steps you can take to prevent it.
  • Risk of Pests – Because of the added moisture, basements tend to attract different kinds of pests and creepy crawlies.

Basements are a fantastic addition to your home as long as you understand the risks. At Redleaf Homes, our professionals will make sure your basement is perfect to prevent issues from showing up later on. Contact our office today to talk with our professional home designers and builders about all of the options available when you build a custom home with Redleaf Homes. 

Thinking about building new in SE Wisconsin? Give us a call to discuss your options!