Whether to install a vapor barrier (VB) (i.e. Plastic sheeting) in your basement has been under debate for quite some time and you will undoubtably get multiple opinions on the subject. I haven't heard if a definitive decision has been made whether VB's are necessary in basement remodels.

I read in an issue of "Fine Homebuilding" about finishing a basement. In the article, the author opted not to put in a plastic sheeting VB to allow water vapor to pass through the wall in either direction ("into" the finished space from the surrounding earht or "out of" the finished space to the surrounding earth) It's been said that plastic vapor barriers can cause moisture problems by providing a surface on which the water vapor can condense, soaking the insulation, wall studs and sheathing of the house. In my basement remodel project, I've opted to go without a VB.

The 15" gap of insulation at the bottom of the stud bays doesn't make sense to me. The insulation is supposed to form a closed envelop so that one can control interior temperature; Leaving the gap at the bottom leaves the envelop open. I'd fill in the gap with insulation.

Good Luck

Thanks Wally.

That brings me back to where I started... You are on the same page as most of the people I've talked to however. Most would remove the plastic vapor barrier for the same reasons you mentionned. As for the insulation, I just don't know why it was done the way it was, but it's not the first time I've seen this around here. (Quebec)

Thanks again.