How to Frame a Wall With 2x2s

Most walls can be framed effectively using 2-by-2s.

While framing a wall may seem like a task requiring an expert's involvement, with a little preparation and patience and a lot of hard work, almost anyone can frame a wall with 2-by-2-inch posts. Many builders will use the more standard 2-by-4s to frame a wall, which allows plenty of room for insulation. However, 2-by-2s also can be used, and they add extra room to a small space. When working with 2-by-2s, be prepared for working with tighter spaces. Framing a wall with 2-by-2s is a technique that is perfect for framing out basement walls.

Things You'll Need

• Foam insulation
• 3-inch concrete screws
• 2-by-2s
• Level
• Framing nails

Instructions

1. Attach foam insulation directly to the wall. This is necessary because framing a wall with 2-by-2s allows less space inside the wall than more standard 2-by-4s.

2. Attach 2-by-2s horizontally around the top and bottom of the wall. Secure them with nails or screws that pass through the 2-by-2s, through the foam, and into the concrete wall behind the insulation. Three-inch concrete screws are best for this.

3. Nail the 2-by-2 studs, spaced evenly, vertically around the room, fitting the vertical 2-by-2s inside the horizontal 2-by-2s around the room's perimeter. Space them between 12 and 18 inches apart. Screw the 2-by-2s to the wall, through the foam insulation and into the concrete, using the 3-inch concrete screws. Use three screws, evenly spaced up the 2-by-2, to attach the frame to the wall.

4. Fill the frame with insulation prior to attaching the drywall.

Tips & Warnings

• When framing with 2-by-2s, electrical outlets and switches need to be handled with care. Because all wires need to be a minimum of 1.25 inches behind the wood frame, it's best to run all wires through electrical metallic tubing, or EMT, for protection.

• Use a chalk line to mark your vertical post lines, spacing them evenly around the room.

• Use the level regularly to ensure that all your 2-by-2s -- particularly the horizontal ones running around the top and bottom of the room -- are perfectly level. If these are not level, the entire wall will end up being crooked and you will have problems fitting your vertical 2-by-2s inside the horizontal frame.

References

• Family Handyman: How to Finish a Foundation Wall
• This Old House: How to Frame a Partition Wall
• Family Handyman: How to Finish a Basement -- Framing & Insulating