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I have questions about framing a basement. I want answers from someone who knows their stuff!?

Update:

Here's the situation: I am framing a neighbor's basement, starting with the perimeter wall. His perimeter wall is concrete, covered in a solid sheet of R-13 fiberglass insulation and a moisture barrier from the ceiling down to within a few inches of the floor. The ceiling is already hung and is about 8' high.

1. Should I use 2x4 lumber, or can I use 2x3's for added space?

2. Do I need to add a moisture barrier for the last few inches of space near the floor, or for the bottom plate?

Update 2:

3. Should I shoot pins, or use Zamac pins or Tapcons?

4. Is it better to build panels, then shim them into place, or is it better to stick-build?

Any other advice is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

3 Answers

Relevance
  • 6 years ago

    The moisture barrier must be carried down to the floor and under the bottom plate. Seal the barrier join

    with proper tape. I assume you will use drywall, so you can apply either 2X4's or 2 X 3's. Hopefully,his

    moisture barrier is of the proper mil for your area code.

    Source(s): Knowledge.
  • 6 years ago

    Here's the situation: I am framing a neighbors basement, starting with the perimeter wall. His perimeter wall is concrete, covered in a solid sheet of fiberglass insulation, (probably R-13) and a vapor barrier from the top, down to within about 6 inches from the floor. The height overall is about 8'. Also, the ceiling is already hung with drywall.

    1. Should I use 2x4 lumber, or can I go with 2x3 lumber for added room around the perimeter?

    2. Do I need a moisture barrier for the bottom plate? Should I use treated lumber, or a foam barrier?

    And do I need to worry about a moisture barrier for the last few inches of wall and floor below the existing fiberglass and moisture barrier?

    3. Should I shoot the bottom plate with pins, or should I drill and use Zamacs or Tapcons? Does it matter?

    4. Is it better to fabricate panels, then shim the tops when I nail them into place, or should I just stick-build it?

    I have lots of experience in commercial and metal framing, so I have the basic know-how of building, but I'm not experienced in wood or residential and I want to get it right. Your answers and added info are greatly appreciated!

  • ?
    Lv 4
    5 years ago

    Ask your parents if its okay to find a roommate off Craigslist or something.

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