[Ncop143]

I am looking to start finishing my basement. I live in northern NJ, and I have an interior drain system that goes around the entire perimeter of the home. The system has an open channel at the base of the wall. The channel is anywhere from 2"- 2 3/4" wide at some points. I am trying to determine what the best method of insulating and framing (ie rigid foam glued to walls?, lumber or galvanized studs?) would be, as I can't seem to find any how to video's that deal with finishing a basement with an open drain system like mine. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Nick

 

[jmon]

Welcome to the forum ncop143

Would putting sealant on the foundation walls and floors then paint it be an option for you.

Reason I ask is with an open drain system around the inside perimeter there is always going to be the threat of water damage, mold, moisture, etc., if you finish the basement walls and floors with sheetrock, carpet, etc.

I have a similar set-up, mine goes to a low spot in the basement with sump pump. I live in upstate NY.

I sealed my walls and floor (all concrete), then painted. I will admit it's not like a true finished basement with sheetrock and carpet, etc., but there is nothing that will get water damaged if the unexpected happens as everything is concrete. Boiler and water heater are up on blocks. Just a suggestion.

 

[carpdad]

Screw the foam boards to the foundation (1 1/2" min in cold climate). Top even with foundation top, seal with can foam. Bottom to the floor, remove as much you need for the drain system or just to go over the drain system. Seal the bottom joint. You are letting the potential wall leak drain into the drain system but sealing the cold air from coming into the living space. Don't seal the bottom of the board to the foundation, to repeat.
Next board, seal the side joint. Because I seal this way, I leave about 1/4" space between the boards. I don't use tape.
If using furring strips for the drywall, you use wire molding for the electrics and 1x base molding for strength. Glue the molding.

 

[Olcrazy1]

How large is the space? Can you afford the loss of area by leaving a walkway around the perimeter? If so I would build walls 24" off the foundation. Use PT lumber for the bottom plate And an access door. Use foam board on the outside and drywall on the inside. If you ever need to get to the unfinished side you have a door and a walkway. Just depends if you have the space to lose.

 

[KathrynCecelia]

I have refinished two basements. None were like yours. I would NOT cover the drain or disguise it. I'd either leave it as a trench that you can see or as suggested above move in from the drain a few inches so it is still accessible. I am going to tear out my basement carpeting and have the concrete finished in a faux stone look. I'm thinking this type of flooring might be something to think about IF flooding is a possibility, as there would be nothing to be ruined by the water. Area carpets could be rolled up if an issue happened. What about windows? Do you see evidence of past water issues? If yes, can you prevent it in the future? Answering those questions will lead you on the right path. You didn't say what you wanted to use the space for. Different uses would dictate different finishes. A man cave vs a family room vs a guest room vs a project room or shop. Be sure to check if you have room on your electrical box if you want to add outlets and electrical equipment in this space... no sense in envisioning a media room, and not having room for the electronics required. Good luck.