Finishing basement - need resource for floating framed walls

[mfinley919]

HI all,

I am going to finish the basement, because of the chance of floor movement I have to frame the walls in a way that they will not be attached to the floor itself and the floor will be able to float up and down a bit. Does anyone have a good book or resource showing me the details?

Thanks,

[Rich]

I can tell you how to do it.. but I've never seen anything by way of a book. Take a look at this detail..
http://www.asktooltalk.com/home/qanda/faq/foundations/floating-walls/floating-walls.htm

[mfinley919]

Thanks Rich,

I can't believe that no where in a framing book is an reference to floating wall construction, but I have not been able to find it. That link is a pretty good starting point, thanks for that.

To further complicate the matter, I am planning on installing a hardwood raised panel wainscotting on the lower half of these walls made from Alder. Not being able to attach the baseboard to the lower part of these panels is going to result in less then desireable gaps I'm thinking between the molding and the walls. Any tips of ideas on reducing these problems?

Also, around doors you have molding that usually extends down to the floor, any ideas on handeling the door molding and the door jams themselves?

[dustbenett]

have you thought about using metal studs with slip track at the top it make it so that the studs can slip up and down in the top plate which would also take care of your moulding problems

[Dano]

I have to admit..never seen a "floating wall" system before. The detail Rich gave (via website) shows a 3' float.....If I lived in an area that caused this type of movement..I'd move. It seems it is due to possible hydraulic water pressure..why not use a spring system?

[Rich]

In Colorado - it's mostly due to expansive clay soil. Some places south of Denver have upwards of 18" of movement. I'd rather build everything on caissons than do a floating wall. They never look decent after a few years.