BigBear
Well-known member
We live in an old farmhouse that was built in 1890. I have a cellar that has about a 6' ceiling directly under the kitchen which is essentially in the center of the house. Under the living room and dining room I have a crawlspace that is only about 12"-16" high. Somehow they managed the fish the duct work and electrical through there. I would like to create an access hole in the cellar and excavate down another 12-18" so I can get under those rooms for accessibility, vapor barrier and also to insulate around the foundation to prevent air movement. We get a ton of air coming in from the foundation. I would frame up a false wall with treated lumber and put 2" foam around the perimeter to seal it up.
I live in Ohio so I'm sure the the field stone foundation goes down at least 4' from grade. So I'm not too worried about undermining the foundation especially if I keep everything level. I know this will be a ton of work and lots of hand digging but I have 4 kids that can help and can work on it whenever I have time in any weather/season. Has anyone ever done this or have any experience with this?
I live in Ohio so I'm sure the the field stone foundation goes down at least 4' from grade. So I'm not too worried about undermining the foundation especially if I keep everything level. I know this will be a ton of work and lots of hand digging but I have 4 kids that can help and can work on it whenever I have time in any weather/season. Has anyone ever done this or have any experience with this?