24 Mar How to Choose Between Basement Lowering and Bench Footings

Published: March 24, 2025

Expanding and improving basement space is a great way to add value to your home. However, when it comes to increasing basement height, homeowners often face a choice between basement lowering and bench footings. Both methods have advantages and limitations, making it important to understand which one best suits your property. At VMB Group, we specialize in professional basement lowering and underpinning solutions to ensure safe and effective foundation modifications.

What is Basement Lowering?

Basement lowering is the process of excavating beneath the existing foundation to increase the height of the basement. This method typically involves underpinning the foundation walls to ensure structural stability while digging deeper.

Benefits of Basement Lowering:

• Increases Ceiling Height – Creates a more functional and livable basement space.
• Maximizes Usable Square Footage – Transforms an unfinished basement into a usable area.
• Improves Home Value – Adds resale appeal by making the basement more desirable.
• Stronger Structural Support – Underpinning reinforces the foundation, improving overall stability.

When to Choose Basement Lowering:

• When you need significant ceiling height increase.
• If you plan to fully finish the basement for living space.
• If you want long-term foundation reinforcement.

What are Bench Footings?

Bench footing is an alternative to traditional basement lowering. Instead of excavating beneath the foundation, bench footings involve digging down within the basement space and pouring a concrete ledge (bench) against the interior foundation walls.

Benefits of Bench Footings:

• Faster Installation – Less time-intensive than full basement lowering.
• Lower Cost – More budget-friendly compared to full underpinning.
• No Need to Extend the Foundation – Avoids the complexity of deepening footings outside the home.

When to Choose Bench Footings:

• If you need a cost-effective solution to increase ceiling height.
• When your home is not suited for full underpinning.
• If structural concerns prevent full foundation excavation.

Key Differences Between Basement Lowering and Bench Footings

Choosing the Right Underpinning Contractor

Both basement lowering and bench footings can be effective, but your decision should be based on:

• Budget – Bench footings are more affordable, while basement lowering is a bigger investment with long-term benefits.
• Structural Considerations – If your foundation needs reinforcement, full underpinning with basement lowering is the best choice.
• Space Utilization – If you need maximum usable basement space, lowering is preferred. Bench footings sacrifice some floor area.

Get Expert Advice from VMB Group

Choosing between basement lowering and bench footings requires professional assessment. At VMB Group, we provide expert consultation, engineering analysis, and customized solutions to ensure safe and effective basement renovations.

Contact us today for a consultation and find out which method is best for your home.