If you have a basement that's part of your property, you can try to conserve it by making it habitable. But you have to work on two fronts: the administrative one and the technical one, with the necessary repairs.
From an administrative point of view, it is generally necessary to:
- check the intended use current local;
- ensure that the municipal urban planning scheme allows for the change of intended use to residential;
- obtain any building permits necessary;
- upon completion of the work, make a declaration and update the land registry documentation.
In many cases, obtaining a building permit requires a significant portion of the property to be above ground. In any case, it's always a good idea to contact the Municipal Technical Office through a specialized surveyor (preferably local), who will guide you through all the work.
From a technical point of view, however, the essential works to be implemented are:
From a technical point of view, the most common interventions are:
- Waterproofing of the walls and the floor against humidity and infiltrations.
- Thermal insulation to avoid dispersion and condensation.
- Adequate ventilation, natural or mechanical (VMC), to ensure air exchange.
- Sufficient natural lighting, often enlarging or creating windows or skylights, if permitted.
- Adaptation of the systems (electrical, plumbing, heating) in compliance with current regulations.
- Internal height Complies with the minimum requirements set by local regulations. Ceilings must generally be at least 2,40 meters high.
- Safety, including any escape routes and compliance with fire regulations where applicable.
Moisture prevention is one of the most important aspects when converting a basement into a habitable space. It's better to address the problem at its source, by waterproofing the exterior walls, rather than trying to eliminate its effects with dehumidifiers or anti-mold paints.
If it is possible to excavate outside the underground walls, you can intervene with:
- waterproofing sheath;
- dimpled protective and drainage membranes;
- insulating panels moisture resistant (e.g. XPS);
- perimeter drainage with drainage pipe.
This is the most effective intervention because it prevents water from reaching the walls.
It's also important to avoid letting internal surfaces get cold, as this encourages condensation. A typical solution includes:
- vapor barrier;
- XPS or cellular glass insulation;
- screed;
- floor.
Even underground walls can be insulated with materials that are not sensitive to humidity.
As for the floor of a basement that becomes habitable, the ideal one must be Moisture resistant, stable over time, easy to clean and compatible with good thermal insulationThe choice also depends on how the room will be used (bedroom, living room, tavern, study, etc.).
Here are the best options.
1. Porcelain stoneware
It is generally the most suitable material for a basement.
Advantages:
- does not absorb moisture;
- it is resistant to mold and stains;
- requires little maintenance;
- it is available in many effects (wood, stone, concrete);
- It is ideal with underfloor heating.
- Without insulation it may feel cold to the touch.
- warm and comfortable underfoot;
- water resistant;
- easy and quick to install;
- good wear resistance.
- installation requires a very dry and well-prepared substrate;
- Quality varies greatly between budget and high-end products.
3. Microcement or resin
Ideal for a modern style.
Advantages:
- continuous surface without joints;
- easy to clean;
- very resistant.
Disadvantages:
- requires highly specialized installation;
- Any movement of the substrate can cause cracking if the system is not designed correctly.
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