Our basement stays dry even during extended severe rains. The only hint of moisture is a couple damp blocks in one area we want to finish. The plan is using steel studs and a finish wall that is unaffected by moisture.

Completely sealing out the moisture seems like a loosing battle to me. And the fact that so little is noticeable temps me to just live with it and depend on ventilation and a good dehumidifier to control it.

I am thinking of keeping the back of the studs about 1" from the block wall and installing ventilation grills at the top and bottom of of the finish wall in a couple places.

This will allow air circulation between the finished and block walls.

I know this is not smart from the insulation standpoint but I believe it will keep the block wall dry enough to not grow mold.

There are probably better ways to do this I am unawre of so please feel free to comment.

Thanks!