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View Full Version : Basement finishing - wall height


basement hopeful
Jan 10, 2007, 08:36 AM
I am planning a simple basement remodel - primarily finishing the perimeter walls and creating 2 rooms. My basement measures 8'-5" from the slab to the bottom of the joists. If I stick frame the walls I will need to buy 10' studs and cut them all to fit. Since about 50% of my basement ceiling has ductwork & piping obstructions in it I was planning on a suspended ceiling. That being the case, wouldn't it be easier for me to buy either precut or 8' studs, build the walls on the floor and tilt them into place and anchor them to the joists with shims as needed? If I install the suspended ceiling no higher than 8' I would only lose 5" of height and I could use 8' dryall without having to cut down larger sheets.
Also, is there any way to anchor the stud plates with adhesive as opposed to power driven anchors?
I'd appreciate any thoughts or opinions.

ballengerb1
Jan 10, 2007, 08:46 AM
I am planning a simple basement remodel - primarly finishing the perimeter walls and creating 2 rooms. My basement measures 8'-5" from the slab to the bottom of the joists. If I stick frame the walls I will need to buy 10' studs and cut them all to fit. Since about 50% of my basement ceiling has ductwork & piping obstructions in it I was planning on a suspended ceiling. That being the case, wouldn't it be easier for me to buy either precut or 8' studs, build the walls on the floor and tilt them into place and anchor them to the joists with shims as needed? If I install the suspended ceiling no higher than 8' I would only lose 5" of height and I could use 8' dryall without having to cut down larger sheets.
Also, is there any way to anchor the stud plates with adhesive as opposed to power driven anchors?
I'd appreciate any thoughts or opinions.
Most drop ceiling will want that lost 5 inches to tilt the tiles into the channel. So, yes, the 8' studs would be a good idea. Your floor plate should not be plain 2X4 lumber. You will be better off using pressure treated lumber to prevent rote or mildew caused by moisture in the concrete. The bottom 2 ft of your wall cavity should not be insulated if you live in an area where the frost line goes down 42 " or more. This will prevent moisture outside the foundation base from freezing.
You can drill the concrete and use expnading metal fasteners but it is more quick to rent a Remington stud gun and shoot the nails.

Bob