What were houses made of in 1940s?

FOUNDATION AND EXTERIOR WALLS Early 1940s homes were built on a stem wall or piers, but the concrete slab-on-grade with a thickened edge that served as a foundation was the up-and-coming new technology of the end of the decade. Some homes still used continuous concrete footings and a block stemwall.

When did they start building houses with basements?

1950s
However, beginning with the development of large, mid-priced suburban homes in the 1950s, the basement, as a space in its own right, gradually took hold.

Did old houses have basements?

Older basement walls were built with dry-laid stone. Later houses had mortared stone or brick basement walls, and concrete, both block and poured, replaced stone and brick completely in the 20th century.

Why don t houses have basements anymore?

In addition, fear of earthquakes was often cited as a reason for the dearth of basements in the Golden State. Building a basement to code upgrades your home to the safest level of protection for earthquakes, because you have a much stronger foundation for the whole house.

Do you have to have a basement remodel?

But basements don’t have to stay that way. They can be remodeled and finished so that they not only integrate with the rest of the home but become beautiful and valuable assets to the property. The first goal of any basement remodel is to decide how to finish the large surfaces: flooring, walls, and ceiling.

How to remodel a 1940s House to be modern?

Floors and Lighting. Some 1940s homes were constructed with hardwood floors. If that’s the case in your home, try sanding and refinishing floors that are in good condition. You’ll save money on pricey replacement flooring. Shiny, dark espresso hardwood floor finishes impart a more modern feel.

How long has Lee Lee been remodeling houses?

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. Basements can be daunting spaces for remodeling.

What does a finished basement look like on HGTV?

This expansive finished basement features lightly colored carpeting and recessed lighting throughout. A wall-mounted TV sits opposite a large gray sectional, and warm wood accent furniture is spread around to help anchor the light, neutral space.

Is it safe to renovate a house built in the 1940s?

Proper removal of asphalt flooring is strictly regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Also, homes built during the 1940s may contain lead-based paint. If a contractor is hired to repair, paint or renovate your home in such a way that will disturb lead-based paint, it is mandatory that he be trained in lead-safe work practices.

What kind of house was built in the 1940s?

Houses of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s are now old enough to suffer from the indignities of age as well as constant assaults made to “update” them. Applied thoughtfully, modern materials and methods will make them better than new. A simple suburban ranch with a shallow hipped roof, built in 1947.

What’s the least expensive way to build a basement?

2. Concrete Block. The least-expensive option for basement construction involves the use of concrete blocks or masonry. The walls are made of cinder blocks and can be constructed in a fraction of the time it takes to create a poured concrete wall. Steel rebar is generally used to reinforce the strength of these walls. Concrete block walls tend