VIDEO: Steve Maxwell shows how to finish a basement properly (sponsored message)
Steve Payne
Videos Canadian Contractor MouldTraditional basement finishing techniques using stud frame walls, fibre insulation and vapour barriers can sometimes work out OK. But this "traditional" method of building is not without its risks - especially in moist conditions. Steve Maxwell show us how to use foam panel systems and engineered subfloors to ensure a warm, dry and cozy final product.
This editorial feature is sponsored by DRIcore
Canadian Contractor contributing editor Steve Maxwell is featured in this short video about how to make your clients’ basements warm and cozy using foam wall panels and engineered subfloor systems.
You might ask, what’s wrong with traditional ways of finishing basements?
Well, they can be risky, Steve says.
“Traditional basement finishing systems that use stud frame walls, fibre insulation and vapour barriers can cause problems,” Steve says. “They can set the stage for hidden mould growth, poor energy performance and even low indoor air quality throughout the rest of the house.”
“Now it’s true that not every basement finished in the ‘usual’ way is going to give you these problems. But why take the chance?”
“Even many contractors don’t realize how inefficient and risky it is to finish basements the way it’s always been done with stud frame walls.”
Steve then goes on to demonstrate how basements can be finished using DRIcore SMARTWALL panels and DRIcore engineered wood subfloors.
DRIcore SMARTWALL
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This magazine promotes people like this as experts, but there are a number of problems that were not addressed in this video.
First: Drycore has exposed chip board around the edges on the underside of the panel. This does not seal the floor and I have seen pictures of drycore removed in a wet basement, There is mold growth on the underside.
Second: This wall system and the video clearly shows that there is exposed fiberglass insulation between the floor joist with NO vapour barrier. This is one of the coldest and most over looked areas in a basement.
So, I would say these drycore products are some times better for the DYI person, but do not address the complete situation. There is better ways to handle these situation.
Thanks
Jim
Hi Jim,
Thank you for your comments. We would like to address both points that you have voiced concern about.
1. At the end of the day DRIcore Subfloor is a wood based product, and yes, if it does become submerged under water it will need to be removed. Any preexisting moisture issues should be addressed prior to installing any subfloor underlayment otherwise there could be complications down the road, and if any new issues do arise after installation those too would need to be fixed. DRIcore Subfloor is designed to handle minute moisture being emitted from the concrete slab such as hydrostatic pressure and concrete sweat, the type of moisture that would normally cause a failure if finished flooring were installed directly over top of the concrete slab.
2. Yes, you are correct when it comes to the cavities between the floor joists and foundation, there should be some sort of insulation added and a vapour barrier tied in. This video is by no means designed to capture every circumstance one could encounter in a basement. If this were a newer construction home with a full vapour barrier blanket running from the attic down then you would most certainly tie that barrier into the face of the SMARTWALL system.
Hope that helps address some of your concerns, and if you have any further questions we would be happy to help. Our customer service line is open M-F 9AM – 5 PM EST @ 1-866-767-6374.
Good Morning Jim,
Thanks for your note and comments. Just a few points to clarify your concerns.
Using fiberglass where floor frames meet outside walls is a tragic but very common error. I’ve written many times how the only reliable way to insulate this area is with spray foam. We hadn’t got to that stage yet with this basement, but the fiberglass is on its way out. In fact, as with so many basements insulated this way, the back of the fiberglass was wet with condensation on the day of my shoot.
I wish there was a completely waterproof way to finish a basement, but there isn’t yet. DRIcore makes a system that’s among the most resistant to water that I’ve seen, but it still requires dry conditions. No one should ever finish a basement that they know leaks, but if a little leaking should happen, then at least there’s a little grace with the DRIcore system and some others.
So now it’s your turn. You mentioned there are better ways to handle basement finishing. I’d like to learn about your preferences and why they’re better.
Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment.
Bye for now,
Steve
Steve
Look at a product call Delta-fl. It installs in long rolls and then each seam is sealed.
with tape. Then you can install T&G OSB or T&G plywood on top. You can also install Laminate directly on the Delta-fl.
Home Depot as has a product, DMX PLASTICS LIMITED, that is very simpler.
Second: the space between the joists should have a vapour barrier, but the best way to handle this area is with spray foam.
Hope this helps.
Jim
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your suggestions.
Yes, I’m familiar with DELTA-FL. I think it’s the same stuff that some companies bond to the underside of their OSB subfloor panels. I’ve also used DELTA-DRY, which is similar, except for exterior walls. I’ve used it under cedar siding for a drainage space.
I’m a big fan of spray foam for the rim joist area, too. Do you live in an area where you can call in a spray foam contractor, or do you spray it yourself with a kit?
Bye for now, and thanks for reading.
Take care,
Steve
Watch your video, event i am working in this field but i learn more thing importance and tips on your video, thank so much.