How to Frame an Inside Wall Against a Concrete Wall

Many basements are constructed with concrete walls. These are sturdy and perform the necessary function of providing a solid support for the home on the foundation. But if you're interested in finishing your basement, these concrete walls aren't very suitable for making a cozy nest. One of the first steps in your basement remodel will be the addition of an inner frame wall, often called a stud wall, that will provide a location for insulation, a route for wiring and a frame to hang your wallboard or paneling. Frame walls are usually constructed from 2-by-4 lumber, and only basic carpentry skills are required.

Tape measure
2-by-4 inch boards
Circular saw
Hammer
10d nails
Drill
Wood bit
Masonry bit
Masonry anchors
4-inch lag bolts
Socket wrench
Wood shims

Instructions

- 1
  Measure both the width and height of where the wall will be installed. The width will match the width of the backing wall while the height should be measured from the floor to the ceiling joists.
- 2
  Cut two boards to match the width of the wall. Lay these boards on the floor, parallel to each other and resting on the narrow, 2-inch side of the boards.
- 3
  Divide the width of the wall, in inches, by 16. Round the number up to the nearest whole number. Cut this number of boards to match the height of the wall, less 3-1/2 inches. Lay these boards in between the parallel boards, perpendicular to each pair. Place the first board even with the ends of the parallel boards. Nail the boards together with 10d nails.
- 4
  Place the next board 16 inches in from the first board and nail it into position. Continue until you reach the end of the parallel boards.
- 5
  Sit the wall upright and maneuver it into position against the wall. Drill holes in the bottom board halfway between each of the vertical boards. Mark the position of the holes onto the floor then move the wall out of the way.
- 6
  Drill holes into the floor. Use a masonry bit if you have a concrete floor and place masonry anchors into the holes. Replace the wall into position. Insert a lag bolt into each hole in the bottom board and tighten them with a socket wrench.
- 7
  Slide wood shims into the gaps between the top of the wall and the joists above the wall. Drive nails through the top board, the shims and into the joists. The framing of your wall is now complete.

Can You Use an Electric Nail Gun to Install Base Boards?

How to Knock Down a Sheetrock Wall

Walls