In basement remodels of 40-60’s era houses what are people finding for ceiling height. What height would be considered “reduced ceiling height” Debating a few approaches for insulating the slab, and some would cut into headroom. I would like get a baseline of whats normal for an older house in the basement. (Obviously this is relative question but looking for feedback)
Thanks in advance,
Matt
Replies
Most ceiling heights of this vintage is about 7' or less. Basements back then were more for storage and utilities.
When finishing off these areas look at ducting heights. Might be claustrophobic to add a ceiling and if you open a bearing wall The door will need to be cut down. Some cities will not accept a lower ceiling area for living space. 7'-2'' was the last house I did and I needed 3/8" DW on the ceiling to pass city code.
I don't think there's a "typical" basement. It varies a great deal from one region to another.
Wisdom is knowledge tempered with judgement.
Around here (SF bay area) it is very common - if not desirable- to find basement ceilings at somewhere between 6 and seven feet. I used to wonder, "WTF? Were people shorter back then? Too lazy to dig another foot of dirt, or too cheap to spring for the lumber for an 8' wall?"
Turns out they were mostly trying to avoid property taxes. Whatever height is defined as, "livable" in your area might just add another taxable "story" to your house. Below that, of course, is just considered a basement.
Now, with population density being what it is, a popular move is to jack up the first floor to a comfortable height, pour a slab level with the ground, and have a two story house with no basement or crawlspace, which keeps down the overall roof height. (BTW this is a good time to consider a hydronic radiant system in the slab)
A lot of folks shoot for eight feet on these projects, especially if they're planning to rent them out. I like nine feet better, personally, but then it's hard to find 9' sheathing panels and wallboard! :>/.