I'm concerned about potential future moisture problems.
I bought an 80-90 year old double brick house in Pittsburgh. I began removing the horsehair plaster and lathes in some sections due to water damage, then continued around the house after I found knob & tube wiring and decided to gut it.
I'm going to add framing to the exterior walls (which will also allow me to insulate well). Assuming any cracks in the brick/mortar have been repaired:
1. Can my studs touch the brick wall, or should I leave a space to prevent wicking water?
2. Do I need to add a plastic vapor barrier between the wood and the brick?
Thank you in advance for any advice you can provide!
I bought an 80-90 year old double brick house in Pittsburgh. I began removing the horsehair plaster and lathes in some sections due to water damage, then continued around the house after I found knob & tube wiring and decided to gut it.
I'm going to add framing to the exterior walls (which will also allow me to insulate well). Assuming any cracks in the brick/mortar have been repaired:
1. Can my studs touch the brick wall, or should I leave a space to prevent wicking water?
2. Do I need to add a plastic vapor barrier between the wood and the brick?
Thank you in advance for any advice you can provide!