QA

Quick Answer: How To Drywall Basement Walls

Can you put drywall directly on concrete?

You can put drywall over concrete, but it is important to be mindful of the process. Drywall should never be installed directly to a concrete slab, and should be installed over a barrier wall to prevent any type of moisture transfer, which could create mold and damage the drywall.

Can you put drywall on basement walls?

Exposed masonry walls are common in basements, but you can easily tackle any underlying moisture issues and cover them with drywall for a finished look.

How can I cover my concrete basement walls?

The most common way to cover concrete walls in a basement is drywall, a.k.a. sheetrock. Drywall comes in panels panels made from calcium sulfate dihydrate or “gypsum.” Panels come in different thicknesses and sizes, the most common being 4′ x 8′ x 1/2″ thick.

Is it hard to drywall a basement?

Hanging drywall is not too difficult, and you don’t need a bunch of tools either. It can get very dusty, though, especially as you cut drywall sheets. The 4′ x 9′ drywall sheets we used are not extremely heavy, but they are kind of big and uncomfortable to move around. Dec 16, 2018.

What should I put between drywall and concrete?

The solution is covering concrete with a vapor barrier, which acts like a resistant cell membrane instead. With a shield in place, the drywall is safe. Typically, a stud wall is then installed against the concrete, but furring strips are quick, easy and take up less space.

What is the cheapest way to finish a basement wall?

Paneling. Paneling can be used as an inexpensive way to finish you basement walls or ceiling. Use a strong adhesive to put strips of wood on your concrete basement walls, and then use wood screws that match your paneling to attach the paneling to the wood strips.

Should you put a vapor barrier on basement walls?

Basement Remodeling Ideas from TV While a vapor barrier won’t stop moisture from making its way between the foundation walls and the actual barrier, it will help prevent water from coming into the basement. This, of course, helps to dissipate moisture and mold – two things that no one wants to see in a basement.

How much does it cost to put up drywall in a basement?

Cost to Drywall a Basement Installing drywall costs an average of $1,850 or about $2 per square foot. Finishing basement walls in a 400 square foot space may run you $800, while 1,500 square feet is closer to $3,000.

What kind of drywall do you use for basement walls?

What Thickness Of Drywall Should I Use For The Basement? Drywall thickness for basement walls should be ½ inch thick. You can use standard drywall if you have a dry basement, but mold and moisture-resistant options are better investments if your basement collects moisture.

How can I make my concrete basement walls look better?

If your concrete-block basement walls are dry and free of efflorescence or mold, you can seal them with a masonry sealer or all-purpose water-base primer-sealer and paint with a high-quality latex paint. Paint is an easy way to make the basement feel warmer, brighter, and more welcoming.

Is it OK to paint basement concrete walls?

Painting your basement walls can do more than just improve the look of your home; it can protect your foundation from water damage and moisture. For concrete walls, use a waterproof sealant to seal the porous material, and opt for a waterproof masonry paint to finish the job.

Can you put drywall directly on basement ceiling joists?

Yes you can, but it is not always easy to do. The joists may not be perfectly spaced and you only have a 1-1/2 inch target for attaching two edges of the drywall. That is why so many people put 1×3 or even 1×4 strapping on the ceiling. Feb 19, 2002.

What should I put on my basement walls?

Attach wood furring strips, Z-shape channels, or 2×4 studs to flat, dry masonry walls, then add insulation and cover the strips or studs with drywall. Such treatments give basement walls a smooth, even surface that accepts finish materials such as paint, wallpaper, or paneling.

How much space should be between studs and basement walls?

Be sure to maintain the 16-inch on-center stud spacing, and check the wall frame to make sure it’s plumb before nailing it to the beam.

How much space should be between concrete and drywall?

Drywall should definitely not touch concrete as moisture will wick (ie flow up the surface as in a candle/lamp wick) into the drywall and encourage mold growth. 3/8″ should be sufficient – your prop up plan is not only appropriate, but a common technique used by drywallers.

How can I cover my basement walls without drywall?

Drywall Alternatives for your wall Wood Planks. Plastic Panels. Plywood. Veneer Plaster. Pegboard. Lath and Plaster. Wahoo Walls. Textured Wall Panels.

Can I finish my basement myself?

The basic steps to finish your basement include insulating walls, choosing flooring and adding a ceiling to transform your lower level into an additional living area.

Is it worth finishing a basement?

Finishing Your Basement Adds Value to Your Home According to NerdWallet, a finished basement with an entertainment area and basement bath raises a home’s value at an average of $50,000. Also, according to Zillow, homeowners see an average of 70 percent return on investment with a basement remodel.