Framing 16' or 24" center?

Question

I'm framing my basement out and was wondering if i could get away with 24" studs instead of 16"? Any thoughts?

Answer 1

as others suggest.

16 inch is standard ON CENTER for residential Wall construction
24 is often used commercially.

Depending on the finish material you choose the choices and reasons should be obvious; albeit the 16 inch centers take a bit more effort.

1/2 in. Drywall should be on 16, as should paneling if you choose not to drywall. 5/8 drywall is fine on 24, as might be concrete backer board, heavy duty plank paneling; etc.

To most directly answer your Q...Certainly you can GET AWAY with it; if there are no code issues involved. Will you be satisfied at some later point in time?????

In a basement I'd use galvanized steel studs/framing. Just a personal choice.

Steven Wolf

Answer 2

16 is standard. You won't save that many studs by going 24. You will notice it if you do go 24. The sheetrock has a tendancy to sag with 24. Spec house builders used to do this and if you go into those houses a few years later you will see it.

Answer 3

!6" on center is the standard.
It will give a straighter wall, make drywall easier , & be sturdier if door openings are framed in .
Always went w/ 16"oc.
Maybe there are approved exceptions , but why mess w/ success.
Best regards

Answer 4

You can go 24" not recomended, but if you do use 5/8" drywall.

Answer 5

your decision should be based on the size of your plaster board panel and whether you wish to minimize your cutting work, but would use 16" with 4 ft boards for a more solid finish.

Answer 6

I would go with 16" center thats just my feeling on it have done many of them. I use to be a framer so you can take my word on it or not your choice.Good Luck with your project.