In England, basements are often referred to as “cellars”. The use of the word “cellar” dates back to the late 15th century and the French spelling, “celar”. It is derived from the classical Latin word “cellarium” which means “storeroom” or “place for storing wine or grain”.
Cellars are commonly found beneath the ground floor of a building, located underneath gardens and other outdoor areas. English cellars can be used as storage spaces, living areas, or even underground cinemas and bars.
They are often dark and damp, and sometimes require additional ventilation to help prevent mold and mildew. Due to their location, basements in England are sometimes prone to flooding after heavy rains.
Regardless, cellars remain an essential and defining feature of many historic buildings in England and the greater United Kingdom.
Is there a difference between a cellar and basement?
Yes, there is a difference between a cellar and a basement. Generally speaking, a cellar is an underground room built below ground level and used as a storage space, while a basement is a larger area built partially below ground level that is used for multiple purposes such as an extra living area or home office.
Additionally, many cellars have a dirt or cement floor, while basements generally have a concrete slab or some other finished floor. Cellars are also typically used for climate-controlled storage, due to their ability to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity.
While some basements are also used for storage, most are used for living spaces or other activities, as they provide more headroom and are often better insulated than cellars.
Can you use a basement as a cellar?
Yes, you can use your basement as a cellar if it meets the requirements. A cellar is a storage area that is typically used to store items that require maintaining a certain temperature and humidity, such as wine, canned foods, and other goods.
To turn your basement into a cellar, it needs to have a constant temperature that remains between 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 12 degrees Celsius) and have a humidity level of approximately 70%.
Also, the space should maintain a degree of darkness for best results.
To help maintain temperature and humidity, you can install an HVAC system or powerful fans and use a dehumidifier to bring the humidity down to the desired level. You can also consult a heating and cooling specialist to help you determine what type of unit may be best suited for your basement.
By installing wood paneling, you can ensure your basement is dark enough and still provide an aesthetic appeal. If you don’t want to invest in dehumidifying systems or panels, you can still use your basement as a cellar, just make sure to place a few containers of water on the floor and keep windows slightly open.
Additionally, make sure to set up proper insulation to prevent temperature fluctuations in the space.
While you can use a basement as a cellar, consider other options such as a purpose-built cave or fully insulated room. Having a dedicate space ensures temperature and humidity are maintained in an optimal way and there is no risk of pests or water damage.
What is the difference between a basement and a root cellar?
The main difference between a basement and a root cellar is the purpose for which they are used. A basement is typically used for living space, such as bedrooms, a home office, or a recreation area. A root cellar, on the other hand, is an underground space specifically designed for storing produce, vegetables, fruits, and other foodstuff.
Root cellars are typically found on homesteads and can be an insulated room, an outdoor pit in the ground, or a dugout. The purpose of the root cellar is to keep the produce chilled and out of the range of animals.
Basements are also not designed with proper ventilation, while root cellars must be designed with proper ventilation to keep air circulating around the food being stored. Furthermore, basements are often quite warm and humid, while root cellars are typically cooler and more humid.
What do Americans call a cellar?
In the United States, the term “cellar” is generally used to refer to a storage area beneath the ground level of a building, usually found under the main or basement level. It is often used to store canned goods, wine, and other food items.
Cellars can also be used to store seasonal items, holiday decorations, and other items that one may wish to keep out of sight and out of the way. While the term “cellar” is most commonly used to refer to an underground storage space, it can also refer to a small, lower-level room connected to the main home, such as a fruit cellar or root cellar, which is useful for storing produce and other goods.
What is the purpose of a cellar?
The purpose of a cellar is to provide a space for storing items safely and efficiently, usually items that are temperature-sensitive or should be kept far away from the light and humidity of regular living spaces.
Cellars typically provide a cool, dark, and dry environment that can help preserve wine, cured meats, perishable groceries, and other items that are sensitive to temperature and light. Cellars also provide additional, accessible storage space for items that rarely need to be accessed, such as old winter clothes, holiday decorations, and other household items that can accumulate over time.
Many people use a cellar for fermentation or for aging beverages for an extended period of time, as the cool temperature and darkness preserve the flavor of the beverage. Those with larger cellars may have space to store wine racks or to build a custom whiskey rack.
Why don t houses have basements anymore?
The availability of basements in modern homes has declined significantly in recent years for multiple reasons. One major reason is the rising cost of labor and materials for construction projects, which makes it much more expensive for builders to excavate and pour the necessary foundation for a basement.
In addition, basements require extensive waterproofing, ventilation, and drainage systems to prevent flooding, mold, and other issues. This further increases the cost of construction, and many budding homeowners find that adding a basement is simply not within their budget.
Furthermore, basements are seen as a luxury in some parts of the country. Many new homes in the south, for example, are built on slabs rather than foundations due to the mild climate, and this makes it much simpler and cheaper for builders to construct.
Additionally, as more construction takes places in urban areas where lots are smaller and more expensive, digging into the basement is rarely an option, as there is simply not enough room to excavate.
Overall, there are several factors that have contributed to the lack of basements in modern homes. Rising costs and increasingly limited space availability make basements an impractical choice for many homeowners, despite the fact that they offer a great many advantages.
What do English people call a basement?
In the UK, a basement is typically referred to as a cellar, although there are regional variations in what it is called. In Scotland, for example, people often refer to a basement as a ‘dungeon’, and in parts of Northern England it can also be referred to as a ‘vault’.
In the Midlands and South of England, ‘basement’ is the most common term used to describe a lower level space that is below the main floor of a building.
Is basement American or British?
The term ‘basement’ is used in both American and British English, but there are some differences in the way it is used. In the U. S. , a ‘basement’ is typically a room or rooms found directly below the ground floor of a multi-level building, such as a house or an apartment building.
It’s usually unfinished, although it can be finished if the owner wishes. In the U. K. , a ‘basement’ is usually a room beneath the ground floor of a house or apartment, but can sometimes refer to a dug out area of the garden or yard.
It may be finished or unfinished, depending on the property. Another similarity in both countries is that basements can be used for storage, laundry, or additional bedrooms and living space.
Why are there so few basements in the UK?
There are multiple reasons why there are so few basements in the UK. The primary reason is due to the weather – due to an abundance of rainfall and varying soil conditions, constructing basements in the UK can be quite a challenging process.
In addition, the natural ground level in the UK is generally high, so until recently, excavating to accommodate basements was costly and time consuming.
The high cost of housing in the UK also plays a factor. Many people cannot afford to invest the extra funds to add a basement to their home, as the up-front cost is high and the likelihood of recouping the cost back can take a long time.
Finally, the planning process for obtaining permission to build a basement can be lengthy, due to the additional conditions to meet and costs associated with additional inspections and tests.
In recent years, more home owners are starting to opt for basements and new innovations in water-proofing, foundation support and excavation are making basement construction more accessible, but they are still not as prevalent as in other parts of the world.
Are basements legal in UK?
Yes, basements are legal in the UK. Basements can be a great way to add additional living space to a property or build business spaces. Before a basement can be constructed, however, special permission must be obtained from the local planning authority.
Planning permission must be obtained to ensure that the proposed construction meets local regulations and is safe.
Too ensure safety, it is important to obtain permission for any new basement that is intended for human occupation, use and access. This includes new basements that are being dug deep into the ground, or basements that are located below ground level and connected to a residential dwelling.
Furthermore, local planning authority approval may be needed for basements that are intended for storage, such as garages and utility rooms.
Permission will normally be needed for planning matters, including any work that affects sewers and drains, flood risks, foundation stability and the effects on neighbouring properties. Furthermore, the environment can also be affected by changes made to soil conditions and the effects of excavation.
The government has issued guidance for constructing a basement that meets local regulations safely. This includes a technical and detailed examination of the task in hand, as well as exploring alternative construction options.
It is also important to explore options that can minimise disruption to local residents and the surrounding environment.
Overall, while basements are legal in the UK, the local planning authority needs to be informed and the necessary approvals must be obtained. With these steps in place, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of a new basement in your property or business.
Are basements common in New England?
Basements are quite common in New England, even though many states in the region have varied regulations regarding basement construction. On average, around 75 percent of all New England homes have basements due to their practicality.
The basement is an excellent storage space and they offer an economical way to add living space to existing homes. In most cases, the basement can be used as a family room, game room, office, or even an extra bedroom, depending on individual needs.
In addition to that, basements can provide an energy-efficient option for heating and cooling as the temperatures below ground don’t change as quickly as those on the surface. Furthermore, basements can also provide protection for a home and its occupants during severe weather events, such as severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and harsh winters.
Why are American houses built with basements?
American houses are often built with basements as they provide additional living space, increased storage, and a variety of other benefits. Basements are also great for utility needs, like housing mechanicals, boilers, furnaces, and hot water heaters.
By being below ground level, basements are naturally cooler in the summer and less prone to temperature swings, helping you save on the cost of heating and cooling. Additionally, basements can be converted into additional living areas, like a family room, library, wine storage, theater room, gym, or hobby workshop.
The additional living space can be much easier to access than an upper level addition. They also provide a natural shield from outside noise, making them great for peace and quiet. And of course, they can help increase the resale value of a home.
Can I put a basement under my house UK?
Yes, it is possible to put a basement under your house in the UK. However, there are several aspects to consider before taking on this project, including possible local authority and planning permission requirements, feasibility, and potential costs.
Additionally, you will likely need to speak to an architect, structural engineer, and other professionals to help you plan and execute the construction of a new basement.
Local authorities and local authorities may require you to speak to them before work begins and may also require specific permissions based on the type of basement you plan on building. Additionally, each local authority may have their own regulations and building requirements and so it is important to check with them to understand what may or may not be allowed.
Feasibility is another aspect to consider when deciding to build a basement under your house. Ground conditions, the water table, and the need to excavate may all impact the feasibility of your project and the cost.
It is important to speak to a structural engineer and surveyor prior to embarking on a basement project to understand the underlying ground and potential issues.
Finally, the cost of a basement project will vary significantly depending on the size of the basement you would like to build and any engineering and building requirements. Seek advice from a range of professionals and research materials, labour, and any additional costs before making a decision on the project.
Additionally, you should look into possible grant or financial assistance options to help with the cost of construction of a basement.
In summary, while it is possible to build a basement under your house in the UK, there are several aspects to consider before doing so. It is important to check with your local authority if you need particular permissions before work begins, understand the feasibility of the project, and research all the potential costs associated with the construction of the basement.
Can a basement be a bedroom UK?
Yes, a basement can be a bedroom in the UK. You will need to comply with the Building Regulations and Building Control, however. It is recommended that you make contact with your local council prior to converting a basement into a bedroom as small changes can have a big impact on the safety of your home.
If you successfully convert a space into a bedroom, you will need to ensure proper ventilation, lighting and insulation are installed, as well as meet all the legal requirements for a bedroom, such as the size of the room, windows and safety measures.
Fire safety instances will need to be considered, too. It is always important to seek professional advice and services when undertaking a project such as this, so make sure to check with your local council first.
