Interior Basement Walls

1. Follow the Building Code

Be sure to follow the building code requirements applicable in your region.

2. Start From a Corner

The wall surfaces must be clean, dry and free of foreign materials and sharp projections. Starting from a corner, attach insulation boards to the basement wall using an adhesive compatible with expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation.

3. Measure and Cut

Measure and cut insulation board with a utility knife or fine tooth hand saw such as a keyhole type or drywall saw to fit openings such as windows. Insulation boards should be tightly butted together.

4. Frame the Wall

Construct a wood framed wall to be installed in front of the insulated basement wall to support the 1/2" thick gypsum board. The vertical framing members should at least 2'x2' spaced at 16" or 24" on centres.

5. Install the Wall

Fasten the framed wall to the upper floor joist and basement floor leaving a small gap between the insulation and the back of the framed wall. Electrical wiring can be placed by running it in the small gap behind the framing. Use shallow electrical boxes.

Vapour Barrier - A separate vapour barrier will be required when using PlastiSpan insulation less than 5 inches thick.

6. Attach Gypsum

Attach 1/2" thick gypsum board to the face of the framed wall.