Framing Basics for Construction

Introduction to Framing

• Framing Definition: Assembled lumber that provides support and shape to a house.
• Importance: Understanding framing is crucial for contracting situations, remodels, new builds, and repairs involving rot and decay.
• Video Goal: To explain the terminology of framing members from foundation to roof.

Foundation Level

• Pre-Framing Work: Masons build up brick/block walls or poured concrete foundations.
• Mud Sill:
  • First framing member installed.
  • Made of treated lumber to prevent rot.
  • Acts as a buffer between masonry and dry framing.
  • Tied down with anchor bolts to prevent house lifting in strong winds.

Floor Structure

• Joists:
  • Create floor structure.
  • Long pieces of lumber turned on their edge.
  • Span open spaces like a bridge.
• Types of Joists:
  • Dimensional Lumber.
  • I-Joists: Engineered, stable, versatile with knockouts for utilities.
• Rim Joist/Band: Outer joist in a floor or deck.
• Beams/Girders:
  • Support joists.
  • Made from LVL or dimensional lumber.
• Columns/Posts:
  • Vertical supports for beams/girders.
  • Made from hollow steel or wood.

Walls Structure

• Subfloor:
  • Covers joists, made of plywood/strand board.
  • Provides stable surface for walls.
• Studs and Plates:
  • Studs: Vertical members, usually 2x4 or 2x6.
  • Plates: Horizontal members at bottom (bottom plate) and top (top plate) of walls.
• Door/Window Framing:
  • Headers: Carry weight over openings.
  • Trimmer/Jack Studs: Support headers.
  • King Studs: Extend to top plate.
  • Rough Sill: Bottom piece in window opening.
  • Blocking: Provides support and prevents bowing or twisting.

Staircases

• Components:
  • Stringers: Notched lumber supporting stairs.
  • Risers: Vertical pieces.
  • Treads: Horizontal pieces.
  • Knee Walls: Short walls supporting stairs.

Higher Floors and Roof

• Higher Floors: Same structure as first floor with joists and subfloor.
• Roof Framing:
  • Rafters: Diagonal members converging at ridge board.
  • Hip Rafter: For outside corners.
  • Valley Rafter: For inside corners.
  • Trusses: Pre-assembled units creating roof shape.

Sheathing

• Purpose: Covers framing system, acts as outer skin.

Conclusion

• Summary: Overview of framing components in a house.
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