How to build a wall: Wood framing and basement remodeling

2016_MyFixitUpLife_Mark_Basement_Framing_Studs_Measuring

VIDEO: When you build a wall for your finished basement there’s a lot going on. It’s more challenging than framing one outside to, for instance, build a shed.

‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_MyFixitUpLife_Basement_Framing_Hammer_Mark_Build a wall
Make sure all the studs are level. Sometimes it requires a little extra force from a hammer.

Without going into every nuance, this video breaks down some tips I use to make the process fast, accurate and fun.
When you build a wall—what we in Carpentry Land call ‘framing’—it needs to be straight and plumb. The materials also need to be easy to use.

Because this is a basement, all the materials came in through a window. Once inside they took up space. For these reasons and more I prefer using wood framing. I also like that cutting a wood stud isn’t (a) deafening and (b) doesn’t require multiple tools to cut, shape or otherwise work with it. And, the lumber I use stays straight which I appreciate when it comes time for cladding like the wainscoting and drywall we used on this project. Then there’s fastening which is about a million times easier in wood than other stuff I’ve used.

I also break out a cool, Mark-made jig to help with working alone.  Your tips and comments on how to build a wall or other tips are always welcome. I’d love to get your take.

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‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_Basement_Mark_Measuring_Tape Measure_Framing
Accuracy. I’m measuring to make sure the top plate will fit.
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_Basement_Framing_Roxul_Insulation_Mark4
Fire blocking with Roxul adds an extra element of safety to your home
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_Basement_Framing_Mark_Laser level
To make sure everything is level and plumb, I use the DeWalt laser level.
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_MyFixitUpLife_Mark_Basement_Framing_16 on center
I add a floor plate so I can have a place to attach the studs when I start to build a wall.
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_Basement_Framing_Spax_Impact Driver_Floor plate_Mark
After drilling a hole in the cement, I use Spax Multi-Material screws to attach the floor plate.
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_MyFixitUplife_Square_Wood_Basement_Framing_Mark
Measure and mark for accurate cuts.
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Secure the studs with nails.
‣ MyFixitUpLife 2016_Basement_Framing_Fun_Nail Gun
Make sure to have fun!

 

author avatar
Mark
A licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor, he writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.

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