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Any bowing in a basement wall signals an issue that needs to be addressed. However, bowing of 2 to 4 inches is more straightforward to fix than bowing of more than 4 inches. That’s why it’s essential to call a pro as soon as you notice the bowing wall. The sooner you address the problem, the easier (and less expensive) it will be to repair.

There are approximately 5.33 board feet in a 2x4. You can use the board foot calculator in this article to easily find the answer. A 2x4 is 2 inches of thickness by 4 inches of width, so you need to find the length, with 8 feet being the most common. You’d use the calculator here to multiply 2 times 4 times 8, and then divide by 12, arriving at a total of 5.33 board feet. 

Sagging floors, large cracks in your walls, and uneven door frames are three signs that your floor joists need to be replaced. You may also notice squeaky floorboards, windows that no longer close correctly, and stairs that sag on either side. You'll need a structural engineer or floor contractor to confirm whether the floor joists are the true problem behind these issues.

When deciding whether to use nails or screws for framing, the specific needs of the project must be taken into account. Nails have long been the go-to option for framing due to their affordability, ease of installation, and ability to withstand shear forces. They are perfect for structural framing projects where fast assembly is essential. In contrast, screws offer exceptional holding power and are particularly useful in situations requiring increased strength and resistance to pull-out forces. For projects that prioritize accuracy and long-lasting quality, screws may be the preferred option, though nails remain a dependable and efficient choice.