Expert: Michael Hughes - 1/11/2008

Question
QUESTION: Mr. Hughes,
My wife and I have recently purchased a home with a basement.  The basement walls are currently covered with paneling.  I would like to hang drywall but do not know the best method to use to attach the drywall sheets to the concrete block walls.  The bathroom in the basement has 1x4's attached to the block which the drywall was attached to the 1x4's.  Should I use this method for the rest of the house.  I was wondering if there was a method to attach directly to the block walls.  Someone said I might think about construction adhesive and forget about the nailing and wood.  I have hung drywall on stud walls before just never concrete block, however I barely consider myself a do-it-yourselfer.
Thank You for your time!

ANSWER: How is the paneling attached to the block walls?
If these are exterior walls I would suggest framing and insulating the before installing drywall.
If this is going to be used as living space it should be permitted.
I hope this helps. Please write back if you can provide any additional info.

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QUESTION: The paneling is nailed directly to the block.  They are exterior walls and are already wired inside the block wall.  I will frame out and insulate, however can I use 2x2's or 2x3's since I won't need to run wire through it, and insulate with some type of insulating panels?  I understand that I will have to extend my electrical boxes to be flush with the drywall whether I use 2x2's or traditional 2x4 stud wall.  THe house is about 30 years old and I want to make sure I correct any mistakes that were made originally.  Thanks again for your time and advice.

Answer
You could use 2x2s or 2x3s depending on the insulation you decide on. As I do not know in what part of the country you reside I'm not sure what is appropriate. Your local home center can more than likely help you out with the products they carry, the thickness and r value.
I hope this helps.