46erjoe wrote:
I've just finished framing out my basement to double our living
space. It's new construction with just a large poured rectangular
concrete floor between cinder block foundation walls.

The walls turn out to be just shy of 8' from floor to ceiling. I plan
to put in a suspended ceiling later so as to be able to get to all the
wiring/plumbing if necessary in the future.

My question is: Should I hang the sheet rock vertically or
horizontally? I've been careful to make sure that all the studs are
exactly 16" on center. I've heard that horizontally produces fewer
joints, but that also produces those nasty hard to hide 4' butt
joints. If I hung vertically, every joint would be flush.

Many of the walls are longer than 12', and since it's just me doing
the work, I don't think I have the strength to handle sheets that big.

I'm planning on doing the hanging and then bringing in a pro to do the
mudwork.

Related question: Should I hang the sheetrock a smidge - maybe a
half-inch off the (concrete) floor, just in case of water leakage?

Would horizontally hung sheetrock make for a stronger wall?

Any other tips?

The problem I have with horizontal sheets is toeing the screws in at
the ends. Since the edge isn't wrapped, the gypsum tends to crack out
on me and I loose the hold. This probably isn't an issue for someone
experienced, but it kicks my butt.

As for the second part of your question, yes, definitely elevate the
sheets a bit. Drywall will wick moisture. I've also heard to
provide a slight gap between the sheets for expansion. I use a few
pennies and some scotch tape for that.