Question on building a staggered stud wall.

With 2x6 top/bottom plate, and 2x4 studs, would I still use 16" OC spacing for each side of the wall (making the actual distance between each stud 8" OC)?

Any reason why I shouldn't increase that to 24" OC? This is in a basement, and not a load-bearing wall.

You can do 24" OC, which is better for sound isolation, but it won't be staggered for every other stud (the original 16" OC and the new 24" OC will be the same at 48"), so you couldn't use 2x4's. Personally, you'll save yourself some hassle if you keep with 16" OC.

CJ

If it is a new wall it will work just fine.

Yes, you could certainly move to 24" spacing on either side. While that helps in a single stud wall, it actually doesn't improve much on a staggered (decoupled) wall. So you would be doing this for other reasons other than performance. Like cost savings.

Great, thanks for the input.

Yes, it's a new wall - I should have specified.

BUT - Now I have another question with an existing wall.

It is also a 2x6 load-bearing wall with 2x6 studs on 16" centers. I'd like to make this into a staggered stud wall as well. What is the best way to do this? I don't mind keeping 16" centers to keep things simple. I was thinking about adding an extra 2x4 between each existing stud, and just have it hang over the exising base/top plate by an inch, and toenail it into place. Is this the best way to do it? Is 1" adequate?

I can send you pics if you like, but adding the 1" is the way to go

I agree.

That is what I did with a 2x6 load-bearing wall in my basement.

Hey Ted - If you have a pictures showing this, I would like to see them. Especially if it shows how where the 2x4 meets the top/bottom plates. I've diagramed what I'm thinking of doing - but maybe there is an easier way...

Thanks!

Definately an easier way... Please stand by for transmission...

http://www.soundproofingcompany.com/upload/SPC-Staggered-Stud-Wall-Guide.pdf

You keep this up Ted and we soon all going to be out of work. ;)

Well done!

Wow - I'm glad I asked. That will be a lot easier!!

Thanks Ted!

http://www.soundproofingcompany.com/upload/SPC-Staggered-Stud-Wall-Guide.pdf

Where was this when I did mine? I did it the same way, but it would have saved me some thinking!

CJ

I hear ya CJ. Back then we just described these things verbally. Now we have this. It's brand new

This brings up another question for me. I already have R15 insulation in the outside set of studs.. do I need to fill the inside set with R13 or will it be OK without?

Thanks,
CJ

You are fine CJ.

Great- thanks as always!

CJ