Are you looking to make changes to your basement or cellar? Whether it’s one or the other, it’s all groundwork – and if your home is old enough, it’s probably a basement! With so much below ground floor level, it makes sense to utilize this extra space.
But what is the difference between a cellar and a basement?
That’s what we’ve gathered to find out: the differences are nuanced and there is still debate. Once you understand the difference, you can make the right call on your own home.
Read on to see how to tell the difference between the basement vs cellar.
What Is a Basement?
The basement is often the most often overlooked yet the most versatile and useful space of the home. It can be used as extra storage, turned into a workroom, or even converted into extra living space.
Basements are also great for indoor activities. It can be turned into a playroom, gym, or even a home theatre. They can serve as excellent soundproof music rooms.
If you have an unfinished basement, you can reach out to reputable basement finishing contractors for advice on what to do with your basement.
Basements can also be used for extra office space for the self-employed or for project development. It’s also great for the environmentally inclined, becoming home to green projects such as a compost heap or filling it with planters and turning it into an urban garden.
What Is a Cellar?
A cellar is a type of underground storage area for wine, alcoholic beverages, and other items.
It is typically well-ventilated, maintained at a cool, consistent temperature, and designed to keep the contents in the best condition. Cellars could also be used to store everything from cheese, fruits, and vegetables to canned goods, grains, and jams.
Wine enthusiasts may choose to invest in cellar storage in order to keep their wines in the ideal conditions that can help enhance their flavor. Wine experts recommend cooler temperatures and humidity as the ideal environment for long-term storage, as well as a steady temperature and lack of vibration in order to avoid ruining the wines.
Cellars can also provide a great setting for displaying collectible wines, allowing visitors to admire the collection.
Exploring the Differences Between a Basement and a Cellar
The differences between a basement and a cellar relate to location, construction, and purpose.
A basement is a habitable portion of a structure located below the main level of the house. While a cellar is typically a non-habitable area. Cellars are usually located below the level of the ground and constructed with masonry or stone. Whereas a basement may have windows, a cellar generally does not.
Also, a basement is usually intended as a living space and can include a living room, bathroom, kitchen, and bedrooms. A cellar, on the other hand, is generally for storage and is not suitable for living.
In a practical sense, a basement is a subordinate level of the main building, whereas a cellar is a separate structure.
Learn the Difference Between Basement vs Cellar Today
Overall, having both a basement vs cellar is a great idea if you have the space as both can provide great storage options.
Basements tend to be larger and more conducive to living comfortably while cellars are better suited for storing large items. If you need a place to store any items, start exploring if a basement or cellar is a viable option. Contact a contractor today to discuss your best options!
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