Expert: Dan Griffin - 7/29/2008

Question
hello, i am thinking about starting my basement. i am familiar with hanging
sheetrock and framing, however i am not sure how i can install sheetrock on my
concrete basement walls. do i have to use a 22 caliber gun? can i possibly pl 400
either the sheetrock on the concrete, or pl 400 the studs to the concrete? id
appreciate any feedback. thanks. brian

Answer
Brian,  you have many decisions to make.  You can fasten drywall directly to the wall, but this will give you nightmares for electric and duct work and may invite moisture problems.  There would be no space for any tiype of insulation.

The next choices:
DWC (hat channel) drilled or shot to the walls, screw install drywall, space for very shallow electric boxes. Again no insulation.

1 1/2" or more metal studs not fastened to the walls at all.
Wood studs not fastened to the walls.

I would choose a treated lumber base with gaps every foot to allow moisture and air movement and metal studs providing a dead air space off the concrete walls fastened at the floor and the top.  I don't know your climate, but I would use rigid Styrofoam insulation applied to the concrete and a gap between that and the back of the metal studs.

You will also need to decide how you are going to deal with the ceiling before you start.