I have ductwork in my basement that I'd like to frame around. I done a little reading and I found out I simply have to build a box around it 16" on center with 2*2 stapping. Is this correct? I'd like it to be able to support 5/8" drywall. If so, how should I build the box. Should I build it first and then mount it to the joists or should I secure strapping on either side of the ductwork to the joists and piece by piece attach the rest. Should I predrill the holes? Should the vertical strapping that's placed between the top and bottom horizontal strapping or screwed into the side or placed *between* the two (see picture below). If between would you have to build the box before mounting it on the joints?
Thanks
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You would want to frame with adequate air space "HOT" ducts so your "sofit" will be quite large. Less so on "Return" ducting.
Keep in mind if these same ducts provide Central Air Conditioning in the summer months you may also have a condensation problem.
Any "source" ducting (hot air from furnace to house) consider using mold/mildew RESISTANT "drywall". It will be so labeled on each sheet by the manufacturer. Mildew resistant is such as it is not lined with PAPER products and uses mold/mildew resistant adhesives for its wrapping surface. Any moisture/condensation prone environment (encased metal duct work, bathrooms, basements, etc.) should never be sheathed with regular drywall.
check out "how tos" on Kitchen Sofit framing (false drop from ceilings that top off upper cabinet installations -- part of which usually contains the exaust venting from an over-the-range or cook-top vent).
Finally, I wouldn't recommend framing with 2x2's as your intending to hang 5/8" drywall or drywall. Best to use 2x4's but construct wide side on the side of the sofit that the top of your head will be closest to. and pre-drill the ends and use screws. 5/8" drywall is heavy, you don't want your "sofit" to fall down on you and pull your duct work with it.
Keep in mind if these same ducts provide Central Air Conditioning in the summer months you may also have a condensation problem.
Any "source" ducting (hot air from furnace to house) consider using mold/mildew RESISTANT "drywall". It will be so labeled on each sheet by the manufacturer. Mildew resistant is such as it is not lined with PAPER products and uses mold/mildew resistant adhesives for its wrapping surface. Any moisture/condensation prone environment (encased metal duct work, bathrooms, basements, etc.) should never be sheathed with regular drywall.
check out "how tos" on Kitchen Sofit framing (false drop from ceilings that top off upper cabinet installations -- part of which usually contains the exaust venting from an over-the-range or cook-top vent).
Finally, I wouldn't recommend framing with 2x2's as your intending to hang 5/8" drywall or drywall. Best to use 2x4's but construct wide side on the side of the sofit that the top of your head will be closest to. and pre-drill the ends and use screws. 5/8" drywall is heavy, you don't want your "sofit" to fall down on you and pull your duct work with it.
