Basement project advice

[mhg]

As SRB stated. Attach PT lumber, I would use 2- 2x4 using Tapcons or equivalent.
Then you can hang the boards on them.
mhg​

 

[FreedomUSMC]

Thanks for the advice. We’re probably going to frame it and attach the reclaimed wood to the frame.

What kind of moisture barrier should we put behind it? Just a simple plastic sheet or is there something better? Do we need to seal the bolt holes with caulk?

Is construction adhesive strong enough to hang the wood planks without any hardware?

What kind of moisture barrier should we put behind it? Just a simple plastic sheet or is there something better?

I recommend https://www.lowes.com/pd/BARRICADE-10-ft-x-25-ft-Black-6-mil-Plastic-Sheeting/1000158135

Do we need to seal the bolt holes with caulk?

It can't hurt. It would help prevent moisture.

Is construction adhesive strong enough to hang the wood planks without any hardware?

I'd trust construction adhesive without any mechanical fasteners if you fit your new wall framing snugly. The friction provided by well-fit studs along with the glue will result in a bond that won't likely ever move. If you aren't framing and there is any moisture, it likely won't bond to the wall properly and you risk it falling off at some point.

 

[WallsGa]

Thanks for all the advice. We like the way it turned out.

We ended up using a crap ton of Liquid Nail to attach 3 frame boards to the wall. Put 1/14 screws in to hold to the cinderblocks while the goop dried. And used an old church pew for added goop-drying leverage, because we had no other use for the old church pew.

After that used brad nails to attach the reclaimed wood to the frame boards. Let it dry for a few days then braced the rail and added the LED light above. And a border.

Before and after pics: