How do you turn a crawlspace into a basement?

Answer by  JohnHolmes (2660)

You will need to either increase the size of the floor or ceiling by raising the supports or lowering the foundation.

Answer by  worker4439 (128)

There are many ways to do this but basically it is like any unfinished area. You will probably have to fir the walls and insulate them before you sheetrock them. Also you will have to pour concrete for the floor. All of this depend greatly on what condition the area is in and how much space you are stating with.

Answer by  mb (5482)

You will need to install flooring, lighting and ventilation. Make sure you have windows and a stairwell and viola... you have your basement.

Answer by  rhickok1109 (233)

First dig a ramp into the crawlspace and then keep digging to the depth you want. At each support, use a post to shore it up. When you reach your target depth, pour a concrete footing and use an adjustable steel post. Once you've excavated to the foundation wall, pour the basement floor.

Answer by  Jakecutter (1819)

First you need to check the existing supports. Next, use plywood to create a floor overtop of what you have already and insulate.

Answer by  hughey (196)

The amount of effort required may be substantial. You must shore up the existing foundation in order to dig out the the fill within your crawlspace to start.

Answer by  joeinphilly (388)

Check the height first! If you can't stand up in the finished basement then it will still be a crawlspace.

Answer by  BeefStrule (690)

That's a tricky one. You're going to have to get in there and just dig it all up until it's the size of the basement you want. I would advise that you hire someone.

Answer by  HelpfulAndy (1107)

Get a crane and lift your house. Then have contractors build a basement and lower the house onto your new basement.

Answer by  Jdog37 (592)

Get a licensced contractor to do the work for you. Done wrong, may lead to mold issues and other problems you won't want to deal with.

Answer by  bb300 (110)

one of the most important things to look at is water drainage. also, look to see if you have a good foundation. you would probably need some kind of flooring.