What size metal studs should I be using in basement framing? ?
by
Steve
+6
I need to frame an 8 ft' long non-load bearing wall in my basement. I will be using metal studs. This wall is for a tiny powder room and every inch I can save matters. This will be a solid wall with no door in it. The metal studs along my foundation wall are 2 1/2" and the interior walls are 3 5/8". Is it appropriate to use the smaller studs here?
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I hope what you are looking for is in this article:
Metal Studs: How to Use and Frame With Metal Studshttps://www.familyhandyman.com/project/using-steel-studs/
Hi Steve as long as its not load bearing smaller studs would be absolutely fine.
Steve
Here is more info for you
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/walls/21016821/how-to-frame-a-partition-wall
You can use the smaller studs since this is a non-load bearing wall.
1-5/8” or 2-1/2” metal stud for non-load bearing wall
Any good options for insulation in the thinner wall?
The smaller studs along the foundation wall were used to minimize making the room smaller. You'd be surprised what a couple inches can mean. You wouldn't be able to use metal studs for a load bearing wall anyway. I still would go with the larger metal stud for the interior wall. It also may be code and a thinner wall would kind of look off. But if you still want to use the smaller studs (basically of cost I assume) go for it. Best way to insulate it would be to drywall one side, then use foam board insulation and finish drywalling. Foam board comes in different thicknesses
Does gauge make a big difference in my scenario. Box stores sell 25g and I would have to make a 4hr round trip to pick up 20g metal studs.
You could use the smaller studs. You can use foam panels to insulate.