Basement access should be high on your list of priorities for the design of your dream basement. To make your basement more than just a hole in the ground, you'll need to think about all the ways you intend to use the space.
Typically, the basement houses mechanical equipment, electrical lines, pipes and ductwork for the rest of the house. In an unfinished basement, these things are easily accessed, but when you finish your basement, many of these items will be hidden behind doors, walls and ceilings.
Another consideration is how you plan to enter and exit your basement. Most building codes require a sufficient number of entry and exit points if a basement is to be used for sleeping or other live-in activities.
Overhead Basement Access
Most house designs utilize the area under the main floor to run pipes, wires and ductwork. In an unfinished basement, these utility conduits are easily access via the exposed ceiling. When you finish your basement, however, these elements of your home will be hidden away behind the ceiling.
One of the best ways to provide overhead utility access is by using a suspended tile ceiling. This type of ceiling is constructed by installing a suspended metal grid that holds lightweight panels that form the body of the ceiling. A suspended ceiling covers pipes and other utility fixtures, but allows quick access since the tiles can be popped out and replaced easily. Suspended ceilings provide extra sound insulation and as an added benefit, if a pipe should leak or break, damaged tiles are inexpensive to replace.
If you decide to go with a drywall ceiling, be sure to include access panels near any cut-off valves, switches or ductwork filters. Many manufacturers sell plastic inserts designed to fit into drywall openings. These inserts have removable panels and come in a number of sizes.
Providing Basement Access To Mechanical Systems
The urge to wall away your furnace or hot water heater is a strong one-don't worry, it's normal. If you choose to do so, however, make sure to consider the need to service these devices in the future. Leave plenty of room around these items to allow for adequate servicing and make sure the entry door is wide enough to accommodate removing the device should it need to be replaced. You don't want to be like the guy who built a boat in his basement only to realize he couldn't fit it out through the door!
Basement Egress
Most basements are surrounded by soil on all four sides; this can make providing entries and exits a challenge. Most building codes require that a basement have direct access to the outside if it is to be used for sleeping or as an apartment. This safety requirement means that a door or window big enough for a person to fit through will have to be added. Excavation may be required to create an exit-a retaining wall or stairs may also be required.
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