What’s The Difference Between A Cellar And A Basement?
What’s The Difference Between A Cellar And A Basement?
A cellar and a basement are both underground, but there are some key differences between them.
A cellar is most commonly thought of as an old-fashioned storage room for food and wine, often with stone walls, dirt floors, and no windows or natural light.
On the other hand, a basement is an extra space added onto a house that can be used for different purposes, such as extra bedrooms or living rooms.
Basements are typically finished off with modern amenities like drywall and flooring, while cellars tend to remain unfinished.
Also, while cellars are usually just one room with stone walls and earthen floors, basements often have multiple rooms with wood or concrete walls and floors.
Finally, basements usually have access to the outside either through stairs or elevators, whereas cellars can only be accessed from within the main living area above ground level.
What Is The Purpose Of Cellars?
Cellars provide several essential functions in buildings, serving as a location for the storage of foodstuffs and materials, a workspace for crafting and hobby activities and a secure place to store valuable items.
Cellars also act as an additional barrier between the rest of the building and external air temperatures, providing thermal insulation that can help to keep energy costs low.
With proper preparation, cellars also protect against flooding damage.
Finally, cellars add to the aesthetic value of a property when finished correctly by providing an attractive focal point near the entrance or garden area on ground level, creating usable living space below street level that creates privacy from neighbors and passersby.
Can You Turn A Cellar Into A Basement?
Yes, it is possible to turn a cellar into a basement by adding insulation and incorporating different design elements in order to build an environment that is more comfortable and livable.
This involves installing flooring, walls, windows, ventilation systems, as well as lighting and heating equipment.
The addition of these features can create a space that is both warm and inviting instead of the cold and damp area that cellars are known for.
Additionally, if any plumbing needs to be completed it may require the use of professionals who specialize in complete basement renovations.
Can Cellars Be Used As Bedrooms?
Yes, cellars can be used as bedrooms. With some thoughtful planning and design, a cellar can be converted into a safe and comfortable living space.
The first step is to waterproof the space and make sure it’s well-ventilated. Lighting can be installed to brighten up the darkness of the space.
The walls should then be insulated to keep out cold temperatures in winter and excessive heat in summer.
Carpeting, furniture, and window treatments can also be added to create an inviting room.
Cellar bedrooms may not work for everyone but with enough effort, they can provide an affordable additional bedroom for a home that would otherwise have none!
Why Do Older Houses Have Cellars?
Older houses often have cellars, which are typically found underground and can be used for a variety of purposes.
Cellars provide added storage space, increased insulation and protection against flooding, storms, and other natural disasters.
They can also be used to age wines or store canned goods as they remain cool and protect them from light damage.
Some cellars also offer a place to preserve food through fermentation and pickling methods. Furthermore, modern cellars provide an airtight seal that helps maintain ideal humidity levels while keeping the temperature steady throughout the year.
Finally, some people use these spaces as living areas or offices due to their already existing lower temperatures which require less energy to heat up when compared to above ground rooms or floors.
Do Cellars Need Ventilation?
Yes, cellars need adequate ventilation in order to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment.
Without proper airflow through a cellar, musty odors can quickly build up and mold can start to grow.
Proper ventilation helps reduce humidity levels while also bringing in fresh air.
Furthermore, it is important to make sure the air supply contains sufficient oxygen levels for any occupants of the cellar as low oxygen levels can lead to safety concerns.
Good ventilation keeps temperatures more even and decreases the risk of condensation and dampness which can pose health issues. To avoid mildew or decay of stored items it is essential that cellars are well ventilated
Why Don’t Houses Have Basements Anymore?
In recent years, houses have been built without basements due to a variety of reasons. Firstly, as more and more people are choosing to live in urban cities, the land is becoming scarce and builders are looking for ways to make the most of their available land space.
Basements are considered an expensive addition with limited returns for developers who would rather devote the space to additional stories that can be sold off separately or even rented out.
Additionally, newer homes often come with additional features such as pools and patios that leave no room for basements.
On top of this, building codes in certain areas may not allow basement construction due to subsidence issues or risk of flooding caused by heavy rain or rising water tables.
Finally, given the technological advances over the past few decades, modern houses now come with climate control systems and insulation that makes it unnecessary to include a basement in order to keep temperatures regulated indoors.
Cellar Vs. A Basement
A cellar and a basement are two types of below-ground spaces in a building, but there are some differences between them:
- Location – A cellar is typically located entirely below ground level and can be used for storage or as a functional space. A basement, on the other hand, is partially below ground level and often used as living space or a functional area.
- Access – Cellars are usually accessed through an external entrance or a hatch in the floor of the building, while basements typically have a separate entrance from the rest of the house or building and may have windows.
- Height – Cellars tend to have lower ceilings than basements, often just enough to stand up in. Basements usually have higher ceilings and can be used as a living space, with room for furniture and other amenities.
- Purpose – Cellars were originally used for storage and preservation of food and drinks, while basements were used for additional living space or as a functional area. Nowadays, both cellars and basements can be used for a variety of purposes, including storage, living space, workshops, etc.
In summary, the main difference between a cellar and a basement is the location and height of the space and its intended purpose.
