You can install drywall to cover basement walls.
Most basements are dark, dingy, and potentially wet. Homeowners wishing to brighten the space and make it usable need to cover the basement walls and install flooring. Before starting, homeowners should take steps to ensure that the basement walls do not leak. They can then frame the large space to create walls and living areas. Covering basement walls is like covering the walls in any other part of the home. Installing drywall over framed basement walls will make the space a livable area.
Instructions
1. Determine how long each wall should be. Transfer this measurement to two 2x4 boards. Set the boards on a miter saw and cut them to size. Screw the first board into the ceiling joists with framing screws and a screwdriver. Place the second board directly under the first board. Secure the board to the ground with construction adhesive and a power-actuated nailer. The powder-actuated nailer will anchor the board to the cement floor.
2. Install the wall studs. Measure the distance between the 2x4 boards installed on the ceiling and the floor. Transfer this measurement to several 2x4 boards. Cut the boards to size on a miter saw. Screw the boards into place between the installed ceiling and floor boards. Place the boards 16 inches apart on center. Build all of the walls in this same way.
3. Measure the basement walls with a measuring tape. Transfer the measurements to drywall sheets with a pencil. Try to place the measurements against the edges of the drywall so you do not need to make as many cuts on the drywall.
4. Score the paper on the drywall with a utility knife. Snap the drywall from behind and finish cutting the paper with the utility knife.
5. Set the drywall pieces on the wall with the help of a partner. Place the drywall so the length of the drywall is horizontal. This will allow you to install another piece of drywall above the first piece. Have your friend hold the drywall in place while you screw it to the wall studs with drywall screws and a screwdriver. Cover the walls with the drywall. Do not sink the drywall screws so they break the paper of the drywall. Screws that break the paper will not hold the drywall in place.
6. Apply a thin layer of drywall mud to the drywall seams with a putty knife. Place the paper drywall tape over the mud. Cover the tape with another thin layer of drywall mud. Cover corners in a similar manner. Paper drywall tape has a slight score down the middle. Spread a thin layer of drywall mud to the corner. Fold the tape in half and press it into the mud. Spread a small amount of drywall mud over the paper tape. Let the mud dry overnight.
7. Lightly sand the drywall mud so it is smooth with the surrounding drywall. Apply more mud as needed. Sand again.
8. Apply painting primer to the walls with a paint roller and paintbrush. Let the primer dry completely. Paint the walls with moisture resistant latex paint.
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