Can You Glue Drywall to a Cement Basement Wall?

Foundation Walls

• An unfinished basement can be damp and clammy. This is because the porous concrete walls can leak cold air and moisture. Gluing drywall directly to the bare walls poses a risk of moisture damage. Water seepage against drywall can cause swelling, cracking and breaking. These below-grade walls require a vapor barrier and insulation to help the drywall stay dry and firm. Like other exterior walls, a layer of insulation helps to hold in warmth and keep down your heating expenses.

Preparation

• The first step in installing drywall below grade involves checking and sealing your cement walls. Fill any cracks with hydraulic cement to eliminate seepage. Applying a layer of rubberized concrete paint over the the walls will help to reduce the porosity of the cement and minimize moisture. Installing a layer of vapor-barrier sheeting against the cement surface also helps to keep the moisture from reaching your drywall. Basements require a special type of insulation that resists water damage. This type of insulation comes in foam sheets that have various ratings. Some insulation panels have attached vapor barrier sheeting.

Furring Strips

• You'll use furring strips to attach the drywall. You'll attach these vertical strips of wood to the cement wall with masonry screws. A hammer drill helps you drive the sturdy screws through the wood and into the cement wall. Placing four furring strips for every 4-foot section of drywall helps to keep the drywall from buckling.

Installation

• After you cover the cement with a vapor barrier, insulation sheets and furring strips, you can install the drywall as you would in an above-ground room. Moisture-resistant drywall works best for most basement applications, although it is generally more expensive than standard drywall. Attach the drywall to the furring strips with drywall screws, setting the screws slightly deeper than the surface. Tape and texture the installed drywall to make your basement walls ready for priming and painting.