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Framing a roof is the most difficult aspect of framing, and the ability to construct a roof is a real test of your framing skills. This chapter has three separate sections. The first addresses basic rafter framing, including roof framing terms, roof styles, five methods of finding rafter lengths, the eleven steps for framing a […]

This method is possibly the quickest way to figure stud heights and build rake walls. Here is how it is done: • First, lay out the bottom plate in the same way you would if you were going to frame an ordinary wall. • Spread your studs, making sure that they are long enough to […]

A typical beginning height would be slightly lower than the adjoining wall, as shown in the "Rake Wall Beginning Stud Height" drawing. In this example, the beginning stud height is only 3/8" less than the adjoining wall stud height because the plates on the rake are thicker on a slope than they are when flat. […]

A level is the traditional tool for determining plumb. A laser can also be used. Whichever tool you use, you want to make sure you check it for true before you start. To check a level, hold it in position against a wall and read the bubble. Then turn it around and place it in […]

Racking Brace   Do not let brace protrude above double plate.   Two 16d nails in top plate.   One 16d nail in center if it is a bearing wall or exterior wall.   Use crowbar to rack brace and wall. Turn brace around if wall needs to be racked in other direction. Racking a […]

String Line Set 16d nail in corner of double plate and bend until it is in line with wall below. “Plumb and line" is the process of making the walls straight and true. “Plumbing" is the use of a level to set the ends of the walls plumb or perfectly upright. “Lining" is using a […]

Before Wall is Stood Up a. Check plans for correct window. b. Check window opening for protrusions (nails, wood splinters, etc.) that might hold window away from edge. c. Install window flashing. (See “Window Flashing Installation," Chapter 6.) d. Set window in opening, making sure window is right side up. e. Slide window to each […]

To square a wall, secure the bottom plate as shown, then move the top of the wall until the diagonal dimensions are equal. Once the wall is square, secure it with two nails through the double plate into the floor. Cover the entire wall with sheathing, then rout window and door openings with a panel […]

Usually, one member of the framing crew does all the cutting. This promotes an efficient workflow and ensures consistent cuts. The person doing all the cutting must work fast enough to stay ahead of the remaining members of the crew.   Comer   Cripple   Header   Bottom plate   Sill   Top plate   […]

There are many ways to frame walls, but it is always good to follow an organized sequence. This 16-step sequence has been developed over years of framing. Following these steps will help you and your crew work efficiently and eliminate errors. It will also ensure consistency from framer to framer. For example, if you have […]