The Best Materials for Basement Framing

Vapor Barrier

• Basement, or foundation, walls require a vapor barrier prior to the installation of actual framing material. Sheeting material is one of the most common kinds of moisture protection, although some contractors and homeowners use liquid vapor barriers that go on wet and dry into an impermeable barrier along the surface of the walls. Tar paper and vinyl sheeting are two kinds of barrier materials that help to keep basement walls dry. The best type of vapor barrier for your basement is one designed and labeled specifically for use on basement walls.

Furring Strips

• Basement framing requires furring strips to hold drywall panels away from the underlying concrete foundation. The best type of furring strips for below-grade areas such as basements are pressure-treated furring strips. They can withstand occasional dampness better than untreated furring strips.

Exterior Walls

• Walls along the basement's perimeter require treated lumber for framing. Although pressure-treated lumber costs more than untreated lumber, using it to frame the walls along the foundation helps to guard against warping and water damage. Pressure-treated lumber is best for all wood that contacts concrete along the floor and sides of the basement.

Interior Walls

• Standard, untreated lumber is suitable for use when framing the interior walls in basement rooms. Continue to use treated lumber for framing the bottom of the walls along the basement floor, however. Untreated lumber generally costs less than treated lumber, making it more affordable to use in the areas that don’t contact concrete. The general rule of thumb in framing a basement is to keep all untreated materials, including wood and drywall, at least 1/2 inch from concrete surfaces.