Hi,

Planning on starting a DIY basement remodel. I am planning to do the DIY stuff and and GC'ing the items I don't want to do.

I am planning the insulation and framing phases and I have 2 questions:

1. Has anyone used I-joists (engineered wood joists) to build the HVAC/Plumbing/electrical soffits? It seems it would be way easier than using stick lumber or metal framing. Any details or pictures on how it worked or didn't work would be appreciated

http://www.lpcorp.com/ijoists/whylpijoists/whylpijoists.aspx

2. Has anyone recently used Foamular or other XPS (Extruded Polystyrene Foam) sheets to insulate their basement? I understand that some local building inspectors don't like XPS glued on the walls? Any details or pictures on how worked or didn't work would be appreciated.