basement walls?
#1
01-04-01, 01:15 PM
i am about to start the framing of my basement walls and i have encountered a few questions:1) since the walls are not load bearing, could i go with something other than 16" centers (ex. 24"), 2) should i use 2x4's or would 2x3's work (less $), and 3) which is most perplexing; I have a french drain aroung the perimeter of my basement in which i have hung a vapor barrier from the center of the "trough" (drain) to the sill plate at the top of the concrete block. I have heard so much on this vapor barrier issue that after installing this v.b. I wanted to be absolutely sure this was correct knowing that the area behind the studs will be prone to moisture. Also the fact that this is the very beginning and want to start out right. Also any tips on how to proceed after this would be appreciated.
Thank you in advance!
Thank you in advance!
#2
01-04-01, 06:48 PM
Member
Q: Since the walls are not load bearing, could i go with something other than 16" centers (ex. 24")?
A: Yes, but I recommend against it. Most professional finishers would use 24" o.c. But 16" o.c. will give you a smoother drywall surface, a firmer wall, and more places to attach stuff later.
Q: Should i use 2x4's or would 2x3's work (less $)?
A: Use 2x4s. 2x3s are much more prone to warping, they are not as firm, and they don't give sufficient room for electrical, plumbing, and insulation. 2x4s are also more often discounted, usually making them not much more (and sometimes less) expensive than 2x3s. Many home improvement stores sell 2x4 studs at a razor-thin profit.
Q: Vapor/moisture barrier issues.
A: If you have water issues, solve them first. The moisture barrier you have hung will help direct seepage to your french drain. If you don't have seepage, you don't need this barrier. But whether you do it or not (and many people don't need it), you still need to install a vapor barrier between the studs and the drywall. This inside vapor barrier is to control condensation, not moisture seepage. These two barriers serve different purposes.
Have fun.
A: Yes, but I recommend against it. Most professional finishers would use 24" o.c. But 16" o.c. will give you a smoother drywall surface, a firmer wall, and more places to attach stuff later.
Q: Should i use 2x4's or would 2x3's work (less $)?
A: Use 2x4s. 2x3s are much more prone to warping, they are not as firm, and they don't give sufficient room for electrical, plumbing, and insulation. 2x4s are also more often discounted, usually making them not much more (and sometimes less) expensive than 2x3s. Many home improvement stores sell 2x4 studs at a razor-thin profit.
Q: Vapor/moisture barrier issues.
A: If you have water issues, solve them first. The moisture barrier you have hung will help direct seepage to your french drain. If you don't have seepage, you don't need this barrier. But whether you do it or not (and many people don't need it), you still need to install a vapor barrier between the studs and the drywall. This inside vapor barrier is to control condensation, not moisture seepage. These two barriers serve different purposes.
Have fun.
#4
01-06-01, 03:44 AM
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