"Back basement" moisture problem (floor, ceiling, cost, concrete)

[Richard Stokes]

I have a 12x18 back basement which I would like to turn into a nice storage area. However, because the ceiling level is at about 5'9", I would like to have the [now dirt]floor lowered. I experimented by shoveling some dirt over to the side walls, but unfortunately, some water has congregated in these newly lowered areas. Is there any chance of my ever being able to stand in a back basement with a 6' or higher ceiling with a nice concrete floor, or should I just forget it and shovel the dirt back into the center?

[iceshots]

You can lower the floor and put in a sump pump to take care of any water that would collect.

[Ultrarunner]

It's a matter of cost... engineering can overcome most any situation.

It does cost more to retro-fit in my experience.

A properly designed sump system should handle your water problem...

Just beware the pump might be running all the time if it is below the water table...

If it is storage... do you really need more height?

[harry chickpea]

Shovel it back and forget it. Anything you do will either be only a partial solution that begs more money, or an expensive proper solution. If there is water and you start excavating, you will be messing with footing stability, which is NOT a good idea.

[desertsun41]

You dug a hole and water is accumulating? My friend you have a high water table. You can not dig any deeper. You dig much deeper and you will fall into the depths of an aquifer vien.

Put the dirt back. I cant give too much advice without seeing it but knowing what you already said your best option to get a normal height basement is to put that dirt back, lay a thick mil vapor barrior over the dirt, poor a 3-4" cement floor, put in a sump pump. Then you can raise your house from 1 to 2' and put in another 2 courses of block foundation. The cost probably exceeds what you really wish you could have.

[Richard Stokes]

Thanks for all your responses. Gives me alot to ponder.