Framing a Basement

[Marty Rosenbloom]

Now that I am comfortable building furniture with the Kreg jig, a new project is about to occur; finishing my son's basement (still a few months away).

So my question is: How appropriate is the Kreg jig in framing 2x4s for a basement?

Further, are screws superior to nails for this application? Are they strong enough?

I have read that, normally, screws may break under time and pressure: Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Marty

[james wilhelm]

Hi Marty, if it were me I would go with the Kreg HD JIG  for the 2 x 4 ,s  !!!  I would also check the local building codes in your area , just to make sure it is ok !!  Just my thought,s , have a great day , JIM !!!

[Ken Darga]

Marty,

The Kreg 2-1/2" screws will suffice for the 2x4 members, joining frame members in a basement.

[Jay Boutwell]

Hi Marty, like ken said above the 2 1/2" screw will attach the 2x4 framing how ever there is some restrictions in local building codes that may apply to your location.  In framing of buildings the use of screws  may not pass as screws do not have the sheer strength of a nail.  Building movement often will break a brittle screw where a 16 ga framing nail will bend several times before breaking. 

I know in my area you can not frame using screws and they even have a code now where you can not use the older framing nailers that use the clip nails but must now use the full head nail.

[Marty Rosenbloom]

Gentlemen,

First of all, thank you for your replies.

To further investigate I called the local city building inspector. What I thought would be a one minute conversation turned into a half hour conversation.

The bottom line: if the screws meet certain criteria (this information is available), then the Kreg screws will be fine.

But the rest of the conversation was troubling. To do this right, a permit must be pulled. A plan must be presented in writing. Upon inspection, if a wall is off by an inch it must be taken down and redone correctly. And of course, an egress window must be included ($3,500).

What was to be a fun project has certainly lost its momentum.

Oh well!

[Ken Darga]

That's the price you pay for building in a community, governed by codes.

It you live in the bush country of Alaska, building codes are not applicable.

 

[Ken Darga]

Marty,

I didn't mean  "...YOU..." personally.  

It should have read, " ...the price one pays..."

Inspection insures the construction to be in compliance with applicable codes.

Codes provide for sound construction and safety, as well as preventing shoddy work.

[Marty Rosenbloom]

Thanks Ken.

I never took it any other way.

Thanks again for your reply.

Ken Darga said:

Marty,

I didn't mean  "...YOU..." personally.  

It should have read, " ...the price one pays..."

Inspection insures the construction to be in compliance with applicable codes.

Codes provide for sound construction and safety, as well as preventing shoddy work.

[Ken Darga]

Marty,

Framing in a basement needs to be of sound construction.

There are some books available, at home centers, that will provide you with the info you need.

Perhaps you can obtain a copy of the applicable village codes, and compare it to what's described in the book(s), and make applicable changes to meet the code.

[Marty Rosenbloom]

The inspector and I spoke about the book of codes.

He said I could purchase one for $100 or glance at his for a limited time.

But, he also mentioned much of the language was not in layman's terms.