Boards can be successfully secured to concrete basement walls, but there are a few factors to consider beforehand. Nailing into the rigid material might seem daunting at first, but by understanding the aspects that should be given extra attention, it is a feasible task.
When it comes to nailing into concrete, the board type plays an important role. If you’re looking for a surface that’s simple to secure, consider going for something on the soft side like pine or cedar. Keep in mind that if you opt for a tougher wood such as maple or oak, you’ll need longer nails to penetrate the concrete and hit the studs behind the wall.
It is essential to ensure that your board and nails will fit securely into the concrete foundation. Making pilot holes with a drill is the ideal way to acquire this stability. Begin by making a whole at either end of the board, then, spaced at intervals of 12 inches or less, add other perforations for further reinforcement.
Once you’ve completed drilling your preliminary holes, the time has come to secure the boards into place. Starting from one end, drive in the nails at a gently inclined angle, and if any should begin to bend, firmly push them in with a hammer. Moving your way along the board, slowly but surely the wood will be snugly secured.
With the boards having beeninstalled, you can complete the basement wall aesthetic by adding the decorative trim or molding of your choosing. This will ensure that the basement walls appear polished and complete.