ᐅ House with or without a basement? – Experiences

Created on: 29 Sep 2009 00:34
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Sandra Schmidt
Hello everyone,

I just registered here to clarify whether it’s better for us to build a house with or without a basement. For us, this is really a classic dilemma: my husband definitely wants one (“I need a hobby basement!”), and I’m more like, “Let’s save the money and buy some nice furnishings instead.” Anyway, I admit a basement can be nice, especially if it consists of two rooms. I enjoy playing music and could imagine having a quiet retreat in the basement so the kids upstairs aren’t disturbed. Hmm, but those aren’t really decisive arguments.

What are your experiences? Do you have a basement? Have you had or currently have any moisture problems? That’s actually one of my main concerns. We have two small children (2 and 4 years old), so everything needs to be in perfect condition.

I did search the forum beforehand but haven’t found an answer to my question yet. Looking forward to your replies.

Best regards,
Sandra
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Stefan_B
28 Jan 2010 12:59
Hello Sandra,

The layering is quite simple: the outermost layer, which is in contact with the ground, is made of durable plastic (PE) and is welded together by heat. It basically acts like a rubber boot for the house. The second layer ensures breathability and the removal of condensation/moisture.

One advantage of this system is that it guarantees waterproofing—not just water resistance. For laypeople, these terms might seem the same, but there is an important difference! Water resistance, as promoted by the "white tank" system, only applies to liquid water. In its gaseous state (vapor), water can still penetrate into the basement over time. The plastic layer also provides protection against this, as it is impermeable to water vapor (it does not allow gaseous water to pass through).

I hope this helps.

Best regards, Stefan
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Stefan_B
28 Jan 2010 13:05
Hello parcus,

the work is currently not freely available.
At the moment, I don’t quite understand what you want to know from me.

Indoor climate and waterproof concrete structures – I’m thinking about diffusion here. Surely, there are vapor barriers, but these do not provide permanent protection.

Kind regards,
Stefan
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parcus
28 Jan 2010 13:23
Hello Stefan,

The above-mentioned system complies only with DIN 18195, Part 6.

Waterproofing against externally applied water pressure and rising groundwater; design and execution.

Quote from the literature on "white tank":

Water vapor molecules migrate from areas of higher water vapor concentration to areas of lower water vapor concentration (difference in water vapor pressure), i.e., in the case of the "white tank," from outside to inside. Studies by Klopfer and Lohmeyer have shown that the amount of water vapor diffusing in is very low, approximately 0.4 - 0.5 g/(m²d). The impact on the overall moisture content is therefore negligible.
Conclusion:
With proper planning and correct execution, waterproof concrete elements designed for water impermeability (WU elements) are also unproblematic for use in living spaces.

Best regards