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home improvementNewbie question about basement wall framing (self.DIY)

submitted by Dr_Dewey

Hey, first time posting here - just moved into a new house and the basement looks to have insulation on the exterior walls but no stud framing. I was trying to look this up on google but everything I found was about what to do for finishing a basement with no insulation present. What I'm wondering is: should I just plan to frame out the walls in front of the existing insulation and then attach drywall to that framing? Would it make sense, if I do that framing, to add additional insulation between the studs? Or is there some way to get the walls covered without needing to do a lot of framing work? Or perhaps I'm just completely misunderstanding what's going on here in the first place. Appreciate the help!

Here's a photo of one of the walls for reference.

https://preview.redd.it/59z8c45zqxpa1.jpg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=b5d5fd85af7259dee3495aff865cd39d4de77dff

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[–]NotWorthTheTimeX 2 points3 points  (2 children)

You are correct, this is a blanket insulation to meet minimum code for newer homes in colder climates. If you spare the few inches I would leave it in place and frame walls in front of it. I would also add unfaced R-13 or 15 batts to your new wall.

https://basc.pnnl.gov/resource-guides/basement-blanket-insulation

[–]Dr_Dewey[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the help!

[–]ntyperteasy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Agree with this, but if it has the fiberglass touching the concrete, there is a very real risk of building up moisture and getting mold growth; peel a section back and see what is touching the concrete.

At this point, it is a very reasonable choice to remove that stuff (you can save it for use in the wall cavities) and install 2 inch thick foam board against the concrete. It is much better insulation and serves as your vapor barrier. Then frame in front of that, fill the stud cavities with fiberglass insulation and drywall. I would also look into putting an insulated subfloor in first (the wall framing can go on top) as it will keep the basement much warmer and control moisture moving through the slab from the floor.