partially finishing basement by section?
We are working on a design for rebuild after a fire. We’re keeping the poured concrete foundation and rebuilding the house from there. I got a quote from a company for finishing the basement, they tout non-organic materials so it would not be damaged if there was a leak/flood event. There are two sections of unfinished utility/storage areas, just bare concrete. This was a nice feature in old house; cool/cold storage for canned goods, drinks, etc. Will it cause a moisture infiltration problem?
Prior basement was also partially finished and always stayed dry, with dehumidifier and/or sump pump running when necessary.
Newly built basement will have its own HVAC zone, with ERV circulation and “dry” cycle on heat pump.
Are there potential issues with blurring the line between conditioned and unconditioned space? Should I have them put foam board on the walls in the unfinished sections?
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Under modern codes, there is a sharp line between conditioned and unconditioned space. Even if its unfinished, all space within the building envelope has to be insulated and conditioned. The boundary between inside and outside the building envelope has to be insulated, air-tight and moisture-sealed.
Based on what you've said I'd be leery of this company. The idea that unheated space doesn't leak heat reflects century-old thinking.
I'd be willing to put some foam board on the walls of the uninsulated sections
where can I go to read up on code requirements?