Is there anyway to gain vertical space in a vertically challenged basement?

Question

Hi guys, my wife and I are first time home buyers. We found a really great fix-up house that has some problems, but a ton of character. Our main concern for resale (when the time comes) is there's only one bedroom. There is an unfinished basement, but I would say that it is less than six feet high. There's no ceiling, just boards. Is there any way to gain more heighth out of the basement???

Thanks,
Dan Johnson

Answer 1

Yes, you can but it's a painful process. You take out the floor, dig dirt, carry it away and pour a new floor. It's a terrible job. Ask a contractor for an estimate. But be sitting down when he responds.

Answer 2

We decided not to put a drop ceiling in and painted the roof (meaning the joists and ceiling) black. I was surprised how much we didn't really notice it too much. A lot of restaurants do the same thing.

It's just and illusion, but you don't need to dig. Then be sure to get use something bright and very short overhead in order to blind you from what is overhead.'

You have a big challenge with trying to work with only 6 feet.

Answer 3

The only way I have ever seen this done is by breaking up the basement floor and digging down to the required depth and re-pour the concrete.

Answer 4

If there is no floor you can dig out the dirt. outside of that haven't a clue on how to gain more vertical space.