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Finishing an above grade concrete wall

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01-08-12, 06:52 PM

optimus1

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Finishing an above grade concrete wall

I have a tri-level home. The bottom level's wall is an above grade concrete block wall that currently has paneling over furring strips and white polystyrene insulation. The exterior is brick. The house was built in 1975. I have no idea if there is any type of barrier or insulation between the exterior brick and concrete block. I would like to remove the paneling and install drywall. I don't have a moisture problem that i'm aware of. I would like to insulate the walls better. I'm looking for suggestions for the best method and materials to use. I'm thinking i would like to strip it down to the bare concrete wall, glue some type of R-board to the wall, tape the seams, build 2" x 4" walls, insulate with fiberglass insulation, and drywall. Is that overkill? Thanks for any advice.

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01-14-12, 11:38 AM

Pulpo

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I think it's overkill because paneling is maintenance free. The most you have to do is dust it. It never has to be painted or patched. I never understood why people want to make more work for themselves.

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01-14-12, 01:59 PM

marksr

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I never understood why people want to make more work for themselves.

Some folks don't care for paneling and with paint, you can change colors when the urge hits, It's also easier to repair

Welcome to the forums optimus1!

It might be overkill but a lot depends on how much insulation you need to keep a constant temperature in the house. I'd check around and see what's needed for insulation in your area and go from there.

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Walls and Ceilings
can i add 2 extra layers of drywall to existing common/shared neighbor wall?

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syn ack on Jan 13, 2012

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