Browse Forums Building A New House 1 Apr 25, 2010 10:32 pm Hey all, We have recently purchased a block (well, it has a house, but it will be getting knocked down) and are currently going through the process of getting everything ready to build (were only at initial stages) One thing were running into constantly is the issue of a second story. Its generally accpected that the council area in will not allow a second story, but will allow some living space in the roof space (which is better than nothing) - but no matter which way we look at it, its just not going to be enough. So another option for us is to dig.... which we hear from some people (including the architect) - "too expensive/dificult"... other people we chat to "yer, just get a swimming pool place to dig it out" then vague figures of $5k for a 5x5 underground room - but no details follow when asked. So flat out, does anyone have experience in this area? and preferably, able to provide details on an architect/builder they used with (who has experience in the area) I also saw this post - viewtopic.php?f=31&t=18706&start=20 which seems to indicate that the actual excaviation costs are very in-expensive - but im guessing this isnt the majority of the cost. BTW - i am located in Adelaide, mitcham council area. So while comments from other states would be appreciated, anyone with local specifics would be great. Re: Basement level - initial questions 2May 01, 2010 11:22 pm Basements are very expensive and that other post was not really relevant to your situation. The basement needs to be engineer designed, with drainage and the supporting structure of the house needs to be incorporated in the design. The excavation side of the project is minor in comparison. You need to talk to a structural engineer - I know some in Adelaide if you need a name, but my advice is just to talk to a few to clarify the overall situation. Builders are people too.... Re: Basement level - initial questions 3Jun 28, 2010 9:57 am This is just a follow up in case someone else out there is looking to quantify "expensive".... We have got a basement priced up... a large one at 8x12m, basically it comes in just under $100k all gyprocked and wired up... but not including flooring or heating, so just over $1000/sqm.... so not as expensive as the impression i was given by some. DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair to do it properly you need to dig out the garden and waterproof the outside of the wall. There are some products you can put on the face of the bricks but the water is… 2 4613 isn't a garage level with the rest of the house a given? pretty sure they 'came around' long time ago. if you have a flat block, the garage is usually level with the rest… 1 17502 they can, it's a fairly standard solution when the slab isn't recessed. the falls need to be in the main floor, if it hasn't been done then you need to ask them to redo… 4 6578 |