Imperative to use pressure treated wood on basement floor?

Question

As I prepare to finish my basement, I have one thing that the guys at Lowe's couldn't really answer completely. Do I *have* to use pressure treated wood on basement concrete... or is that mainly for external concrete applications. If I'm getting moisture on my basement floor (needing pressure treated wood), then I have bigger problems.

So, if no moisture issues, can I use just regular studs?

Thanks

Answer 1

The bottom line is that moisture travels through concrete. It may not be visible, but it is there. A bottom plate using pressure treated lumber will last a lot longer than untreated lumber. In addition, most building codes require that any wood in contact with concrete be pressure treated, especially the bottom plates that rest on basement floors.

Good luck with your building project.

Answer 2

Wood Basement Floor

Answer 3

I'd use your best judgement on this. Building codes requires that all load bearing basement walls have pressure treated bottom plates but I'm not sure if that's also a requirement for non load bearing walls. It sounds like your wall isn't holding the floor up so it's not as important. Is your basement floor wet occasionally or usually dry? If it's wet, I can't think of a quick fix, I'd tear it out. If it's dry I wouldn't worry about it if it's not a load bearing wall.

Answer 4

Any wood in direct contact with the floor should be treated.
I did a little searching and here is a excerpt that should be what you're looking for.

QUOTE:
"When choosing flooring for a basement and method of installation - keep in mind basement floors are not only cold because they are in contact with the ground, they are often damp as well. This moisture can penetrate the carpet, forming mold & mildew, loosen adhesive on floor tile, or warp wooden flooring.

We opted to install dimpled, gray plastic material that water cannot permeate. The dimples form air pockets under the flooring, which helps insulate and allows the concrete to "breathe" and dry. Any moisture in the air under the plastic will be vented toward the wall area and dries, not absorbed into floor coverings. You can install a laminate floor directly over. However, for carpet or vinyl tiles you will need to install 5/8" underlayment."

So treated plywood is not necessary if you use a moisture barrier. But for framing up walls use treated for the sill plate and put a layer of moisture barrier underneath as added protection.
Links below.

edited for clarity and typos

Answer 5

Not onlu are you dealing with the moisture issue, but it's also important not to invite those pesty critters that thrive on wood fiber for their diet! Why take a chance. Wouldn't you just want to kick yourself if you used untreated lumber and a couple years later it turned out to be a mistake? Good luck

Answer 6

Like I tell everyone, you can do what you want. I would never put non treated lumber against concrete. You may not see or feel the moisture but it is there. With the price difference not being very much, its well worth going with the correct method. The chemicals are not going to harm anyone.

Answer 7

Sole plates should be treated. Period.