Polystyrene, Drop Ceilings & Access Panels

[sinTAKS]

I'm getting there!! Almost to the drywall phase of my project. It's very rewarding to see the walls go up! At any rate, several questions that I hope someone can help with:

1. I used the 2" polystyrene foamboard against the foundation (I know there are varying opinions on the insulation topic, but this one made the most sense to me.) However, some of the boards were bowed. I'd say 90% of each panel touches the wall, but there are some very small gaps. Think this is an issue? I taped all seams hoping to keep out moist air. The walls are drylocked, so I should be cool with water coming in. Thoughts?

2. I want to put sheet rock on the ceiling. The only plumbing I have runs the perimeter of the room... water lines for radiators above. I plan to build a soffit around the pipes. Do you think I could rock most of the room but hang a drop ceiling on the bottom of the soffit, below the plumbing? This would be the ultimate solution for me.

3. Has anyone ever used the access panels that accept sheetrock? Supposed to help with aesthetics. I'm considering using one so I have access to the water main and pressure valve.

[lockpicker]

Hello,
as far as your first question goes...
if your talking about gaps at the seams You will be fine as long as when you are applying the joint compound prior to taping the seam make sure that the entire gap if filled with mud and that the entire recess if filled with mud "No bare spots"

Cause what will happed is you'll get a blister in the tape " Air Pocket" and it will shine through the painted product.......


2nd Question:

yes you most certainly can drywall a portion and acoustical the rest

3:

yes they have all sorts of different types of access panels...
not just Metal anymore