I'm just about to start finishing my basement. I'm Using 2X4 wood for framing. My Question is twofold, 1. The framing will probably span a couple of weeks or more, what is the best way to store the wood (and drywall delivered at the same time for that matter) so as to minimize warpage due to drying, etc. Should I keep wood in the garage and drywall in basement? 2. I've read where you could/should use pressure treated 2X4 for bottom plates but then read conflicting advise stating code does not permit it. Is it best to stick with untreated plates with vapour barrier beneath it?
Answer:
In order to protect wood from warping, it is best stored in a manner identical to the way the lumber yard stored before delivery and that, in the case of spruce, is probably outside but a week or two (at most) should not be roo much of a problem. If you're concerned and you could cover it with a sheet of poly while waiting to use it. I would not use PT anywhere following the negative publicity it's been given of late. Neither have I ever put in a vapour barrier under the sole plate because I feel it only attracts moisture and spruce doesn't like that.
