How do you transform below-grade full foundations (also variously called pits, cellars, or basements and historically meant to be or tolerated as damp and cool and dark) into true living-conditioned spaces? We say add four continuous control layers, access to daylight and egress, thermal comfort, and good acoustics—make it a place to thrive as well as live (and even escape).

Pete's Resource(s):

1. Steven Baczek YouTube: "Dirty Basement" vs Clean Basement....How to Plan for it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HB2nD-0eUZs

2. NDSU Extension Service "Foundation Insulation Effectiveness:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwn0Vjw_ji0

3. BSD-103: Understanding Basements - https://buildingscience.com/documents/digests/bsd-103-understanding-basements

4. Hammer & Hand basement details: https://hammerandhand.com/residential/remodeling/basements/

5. Negative Side Waterproofing (GBA blogs): https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/author/peterbilt