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How do I frame a concrete brick wall while remodeling an old house?
We are in the process of remodeling an old concrete brick house after a fire and fire hose flood. In order to bring the house up to code we have to rewire a few walls and add power receptacles. We also want to add insulation. Our idea was to put normal 2X4 framed walls in front of the old concrete walls. This way we could wire and insulate the old house. What is the best way to attach the 2x4 wall to the old concrete wall? This also all has to meet code.
Answer: There is no reason to attach the framed wall to the concrete. You can simply build a wall that runs from the floor to the joists above (you may need to add blocking to catch the top plate if the wall runs parallel to the joists). If the floor is concrete, use a pressure treated bottom plate. Snap a chalk line on the floor where you want the wall. Measure up to the bottom of the joists (or blocking), subtract 3", and cut your studs to this length. When you stand the wall, anchor the bottom along the line, then check the wall for plumb at several points. Nail the top plate to the joists and you are done. Hope this helps.
