Basement Framing – an Important Component of
Every Basement Renovation DIY Project
If you are wondering how to increase the value of your home, the
answer may be sitting right under your house. Basement renovation
projects can drastically increase the value of any home, and basement
framing is one of the most important aspects of every basement renovation
project.
Which Framing Dimension is Right for My Project?
Every finished basement idea must incorporate framing to one extent
or another, utilizing 2X2, 2X4, or 2X6 lumber for the frame walls.
The planned use of the basement often determines which thickness
will be used. In addition, framing provides the means for installing
the finished wall surface – whether wall board or paneling.
A 2X2 basement finish wall may be adequate for sheetrock or paneling
in a family room or game room, but a 2X6 frame wall may be necessary
to provide extra wall thickness for soundproofing insulation in
a home theatre.
Since most basements are constructed with concrete walls and a concrete
slab for the floor, special procedures must be followed when framing
a basement finish wall. If concrete basement walls are fairly straight
and plumb, a homeowner can anchor 2X2 framing to the concrete as a
DIY project, providing a means to install wallboard. The standard
method of basement framing utilizes a top and bottom plate, with
framing studs running vertically, spaced 16-inches on center. The
bottom plate is anchored to the concrete; the top plate is nailed
to the bottom of the floor joists above. Both plates are carefully
positioned parallel to each other so that vertical studs are plumb.
Blocking must be added between joists in order to secure the top
plates, which run parallel with joists.
Securing the Framing to Concrete
Regardless which method is used, basement framing must be secured
to concrete using an anchor fastener. There are several ways to
accomplish this:
- Concrete nails which are driven thru the framing
using a 22-caliber stud gun. This drives 2 ½-inch nails
thru the framing into concrete using a gunpowder charge equivalent
to a 22-caliber bullet. “Gun” nails and charges are
readily available at building supply or hardware stores. Note:
20 or 30-year old concrete may be too hard and brittle for this
type method to work properly.
- Concrete screws. Using a hammer drill, a hole
is drilled through the frame and into the concrete. Be sure to
use the recommended size bit for the screw you will be using.
The hole is drilled at least ¼-inch deeper into the concrete
than the screw will penetrate; screws are power driven into the
hole.
- Expanding anchors.; A hole is drilled through
the frame, into the concrete, and an anchor is inserted into the
hole. There are numerous types of anchors available. A bolt, screw
or impact fastener is then driven into the anchor, which expands
and wedges into the hole; creating a solid anchor to the concrete.
While more time consuming, this is the best method for anchoring
basement framing to concrete. Framing is fastened securely in
place and there is less chance that it will come loose with time.
Basement framing also provides a means to hide unsightly HVAC,
electrical, and plumbing service components. Note: be sure to follow
local building code requirements for minimum headroom space when
installing basement framing.
Getting Your Basement Framing Project off the Ground
If you are unsure about some aspects of your basement renovation
project, you may want to enlist the services of a general contractor,
building contractor, or a carpenter contractor; all of which have
the expertise required for any phase of framing a basement finish
wall.
One excellent resource for locating reliable contractor service
providers in your province or community is HandyCanadian.com. An
online matchmaking service that connects project owner to service
provider members.
Dozens of service professionals in your locality are waiting to
provide competitive bids for your basement renovation project. Sign
up now without cost or obligation; start receiving bids in days,
or even hours after posting your project online with our easy-to-use
tools.
To post your basement renovation project online and connect with
contractors in your area – click
here. |
