ᐅ Variants of Basement Construction (Pouring Concrete Walls in the Middle?)

Created on: 7 Mar 2020 15:48
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annab377
Hello everyone,

I’m curious about your experiences with the different types of basement construction:

I’ll list what I know and what, as far as I’m aware, are the most common methods:

1) Formwork basement walls (where metal panels are used to build the formwork and then concrete, for example waterproof concrete, is poured and cured in place)

2) Precast basement (precast basement walls are delivered and lifted into position by crane)

3) A method recommended to me by an acquaintance: a type of concrete wall formwork (not metal panels that are removed after the concrete sets) whose cavities are subsequently filled with concrete.

Since my acquaintance recommended option 3) (which is supposed to be one of the most cost-effective options), I’m primarily interested in that. What is this type of concrete wall formwork called? Have you had any experience with it?

In general, is it sufficient if you don’t use waterproof concrete, but instead properly coat the exterior walls with bitumen (which I understand is called a “black tank”) and then glue EPS insulation boards onto that? Would that provide a lifetime of protection and keep the basement adequately watertight?

What is better for exterior insulation: EPS or XPS boards?

Thank you very much for your insights and suggestions.
Ann.
face2613 Mar 2020 10:46
Nope, no exact numbers on hand. But it definitely was like that for us. And yes, the other costs are included as well, which by the way are reasonable in relation to the basement costs. From the procedural point of view, it’s understandable that precast elements are generally more expensive. Because of the more complex manufacturing process, transport costs, and the additional profit margin of the precast plant.

The reason many builders prefer this method is the time factor. It simply goes faster. And time is a huge issue for many builders nowadays. I wouldn’t rule out that some just calculate it until the cast-in-place basement appears more expensive.

Of course, there are critics of precast elements for basements, especially for a so-called "white tank" waterproofing system. But there are just as many who argue that, if done properly, those concerns are just myths.

But it’s pretty cool. The precast panel walls really are as smooth as a baby’s bottom.
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nordanney
13 Mar 2020 11:12
Formwork is cost-effective because the crew expenses are minimal and the formwork can be reused multiple times.