Can I change two 2 x 4 walls to 2 x 6?
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I have a space in the corner of a bathroom (34″ x 62″) that I want to add a shower to (32″ x 60″ receptor). Can I glue and nail a 2″ wall to the existing exterior walls to bring them in to fit my receptor and allow for thicker insulation (this would basically be 2″ shims)? Would it be better to sister 2 x 6 to these studs and use 2″ plates?
Thanks,
Tom
Replies
Yes ... 2x2s nailed to existing studs ... basically whatever works, but that would be 'standard' and easy. It would generally tend to be detrimental to e.g. sister 2x6 to existing framing ... it will cut into the insulated area of wall. Keep it simple, use the 2x2 furring. Then use high density batts if you have them ... or use up extra insulation ... doesn't matter much ... fill all voids in the wall, though, even if you compress the insulation (i.e. IF you are using up extra insulation lying around).
You can install the 2x horizontally and then cheap 3.5" insulation, also horizontally, compressing it a bit. Significantly reduces heat loss through the framing.