Framing and Isulating

[Max 'a' Million]

I’m currently in the process of finishing a section of my basement. It’s a fairly small area so I’m trying to conserve space where ever possible. That said, below is the approach that I’m considering…

1. The cinder blocks have already been DRYLOK’d
2. Attaching 1” of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam insulation. EPS foam should allow air flow into room for moisture dissipation. EPS foam should eliminate most of the thermal bridging between studs and block.
3. Stud 2 x 3 wall against the EPS foam
4. Add additional 2” of EPS foam between studs allow for wiring space
5. Apply Non-Paper-Faced” drywall to studs (either USG Aqua-Tough or Georgia-Pacific DensArmor Plus)

Plan is not to use vapor barrier, other then the DRYLOK, which has already been applied. The theory is to allow air flow into the room and dissipate naturally.

Is this a flawed theory and will this work. Any feedback is greatly appreciated…

Thanks,

Matt

[Max 'a' Million]

Does any one have any ideas on this. Thinking about purchasing product, but would like to hear some feedback first. Thanks and it is very much appreciated...!

Thanks,

Matt

[123456]

I am planning a similar method for my basement. Based on the articles from the Building Sciences Corporation, I am attaching 3/4 to 1" EPS (or XPS) to the concrete walls, then 2 x 3 furring strips then drywall. NO vapor barrior and leaving the drywall up 1/2 to 1" from the floor. That should allow for the walls to "breathe" and for at least shallow electrical boxes. We don't plan on putting any plumbing in the outside walls.

So I think (although I am no expert) that you are planning correctly. I also have a brother that did his basement this way about 5 years ago and has had no problems yet.

Just one question....What is the purpose of the 2" of extra EPS between studs? I though that 2" EPS sort of blocked the airflow?

[Max 'a' Million]

Let me preface this by also stating - “I’m no expert…”

My thought is that the 1” would not supply me with adequate R-Value. That said, I figuring the additional 2” should get me somewhere in the R-13 range. I’m banking on the porous nature of the EPS foam to allow the airflow – even through the 2…

Thanks for the feedback!