[b-boy]

I'm remodeling my old basement. There is an old ceramic block wall in the basement that's covered in stucco. It splits the basement into 2 rooms.

I'm thinking about framing around it and adding drywall. Should I add 1" XPS insulation to the wall before I drywall? The wall sits on top of the concrete floor, and attaches to the external concrete wall. I'm concerned about moisture wicking into the ceramic wall from the concrete.

Another option is to just leave the wall as is. It's a cool looking wall that might add something to the remodel. Would this cause any moisture problems?

Any advice?

 

[b-boy]

Here are some pictures I took when I was anticipating knocking it down. I decided not to do that.

The other side of the wall is partially framed. The stucco is painted and visible. I've knocked all that down.

I'm trying to determine if I should apply 1" XPS as a vapor barrier and frame over the wall. I'm assuming the terra cotta block will wick moisture from the floor. I have 2" XPS on all exterior walls.

 

[oh'mike]

Terracotta blocks don't wick much moisture---

What do you want this wall to look like when finished? Furring strips and drywall might be an option,if the block wall is relatively flat and plumb.

 

[b-boy]

Terracotta blocks don't wick much moisture---

This was my main concern. I've done a lot of work to insulate and add a vapor barrier to the outside walls. I don't want to screw it up by allowing a lot of moisture into the space from these walls.

My plan was to just frame around the wall and drywall. PT lumber on the bottom of course. I'm attaching that with a 22 caliber powder-actuated nailer. I wasn't planning on attaching any lumber directly to the wall. I figured I'd leave 1/2" gap between the wall and the framing.

I did think about furring strips, but I wasn't sure how to attach them to the terra cotta block without damaging the blocks. I have one spot where I might need to do that. What's the best method?

 

[oh'mike]

If you need to attach to the block---use Tapcon screws --your 22 stud gun will shatter the block.

 

[b-boy]

Yes - I figured the .22 charges might do some damage. I want to hang a 65" flat-screen on the wall, so I think I'll just frame slightly away from the wall. I don't want to disturb it too much. I thought I might fill the open ends of the block with foam as well.

Do you think adding the 1" XPS would be overkill?

As I mentioned, I do have one part of the wall that I may have to use furring strips. The prior owner already framed that area out and added a door very close to the wall. I don't have enough room for full framing. Assuming I don't have to worry about moisture, I might just leave it as is.