Turning to all you experts for help on...

[MoonandBean]

BASEMENTS!!

I am in the process of contracting to have a lakehouse built. Our contractor plans on doing the old "block wall" basement. I had kinda thought these were a thing of the past and that poured concrete, ICF or precast concrete walls were the way to go. He says he's been doing it this way for 25 years and has no experience with the others. So...if we stick with him, we will probably need to let him do what he's familiar with. OR...we could sub-contract that job but that could get sticky. OR...we could find a different contractor who has more expertise with the other types.

ANY INPUT??

Thanks!!!!!!!

[Karen]

I would talk with other homeowners in the neighborhood, ask what kind of basements they have, are they happy with it, if they have water issues, etc.

[Lady's Human]

I'd be looking for another contractor, but that's just me.

[RICHARD]

I don't live in areas where basements are common.

But just what Karen said and....

I'd go with the prefab 'boards', Block walls leak, you have to seal the blocks against water seepage.

That said, how easy is the access to your basement? Does it allow getting the prefab parts into the basement?

Do you have to open up a wall to get materials in??

Can you afford the extra costs?

What does you budget say?

It's pretty much what you can afford to do when it comes down to it, I'd get an estimate for the block option, an estimate for the prefab stuff and think about what your options are.

[Karen]

That said, how easy is the access to your basement? Does it allow getting the prefab parts into the basement?

It's a new construction, so access isn't an issue - they likely haven't even broken ground yet!

But as it is a "lake" house, finding out from neighbors about their basements and any water table issues is vital. I'd absolutely speak to your current guy about water-proofing, and if he hasn't any idea, get someone who does.

[kitten645]

I would get another contrator. After all, this is his profession! He should be familiar with all types of construction. Maybe another method is better. I'd definately ask neighbors as Karen suggested too.

[RICHARD]

It's a new construction, so access isn't an issue - they likely haven't even broken ground yet!

Got it.

But that raises another question? How much does it cost to fix 'broken ground'?

My reading comprehension is off today!