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I need to add an interior wall in the basement which runs parallel to the ceiling joists (as shown in the picture). I can't directly attach the drywall frame to the joists. I think I have two options:

  1. Directly attach the frame to the ceiling drywall. This is weak, but for a non-loading-bearing wall, this might be ok.
  2. Open up the ceiling drywall, install short blocking perpendicular to the joists and then attach the drywall frame. This is more stable but more work.

I'm new to this. Which option do you recommend? The wall is about 8-9' tall and sits on concrete.

Enter image description here

This might not be relevant, but in case it is needed, here is more info about this wall. It has no windows or doors.

enter image description here

Jim Stewart
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Justin Zhang
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3 Answers3

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Definitely open the ceiling to add short blocks that span the space between the ceiling joists (studs). You should have a minimum of 4 feet between each block. You can either choose to open up the whole joist bay to add the blocks, or "windows", areas big enough to add the blocks without taking out the whole bay to add the blocks.

Since it is likely you will have drywall work going on, the repairs needed to do this added blocking will be minimal, while the rest of the drywall work is going on. The benefits of the added blocking, which are critical, make it necessary, not optional. If you are want to add outlets, this aids in that as well.

Jack
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I would fit braces between the two joists and then attach the top of the frame to those braces.

Solar Mike
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0

It is more work, but it is the best and most used solution.

Build a frame for the drywall as you proposed, including the bottom part.

Without it, the drywall might just fail on you and you can never hang anything on it.

DIY75
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