Basement Ceiling Framing around Ductwork Q's??

[Chad S Fisher]

I am in the process of trying to finish the basement and I am using the Knotty Pine 1x8x8ft planks. I plan on using the planks on the ceiling and around the duct work. Since these planks need a decent base to nail to I planned on building a 2x4 frame around the duct work. My biggest question is if I am going over kill by using the 2x4's. Any tips would be appreciated.

Thanks

[Jerry Miner]

I don't think it's overkill. If the span under the duct is not too great (like 2-3 feet) You could set the 2 x 4's "flat" and save a couple of inches of head room.

If it's less than 2 feet (Is that a wood or steel beam between the ducts?) you can span it with the 1 x 8 if you go cross-wise.