Exterior walls are typically framed by constructing sections horizontally on the subfloor, then raising and securing them into place.
The Framing Process Explained
The process of framing exterior walls involves building the wall sections on the subfloor before they are lifted into their final vertical position. This method allows for easier assembly and measurement.
Here's a breakdown of the typical steps based on standard construction practices, incorporating the provided information:
- Layout: The dimensions and locations of walls, doors, and windows are marked out on the subfloor.
- Assembly: Wall sections are built lying flat on the subfloor. This involves cutting and assembling the various lumber components.
- Material: For exterior walls, the framing is typically done using 2x6 studs.
- Raising: Once assembled, the wall sections are raised vertically.
- Placement and Securing: The raised walls are put in their proper locations on the subfloor and nailed to the subfloor to secure them in place.
- Framing Openings: Openings for doors and windows are created by leaving gaps in the stud wall and framing them structurally with components like cripples, trimmers (jacks), sills, and importantly, a header at the top of the opening.
Key Components of Exterior Wall Framing
Exterior wall framing utilizes specific lumber components to create a robust and structurally sound structure.
- Studs: Vertical lumber pieces that run from the bottom plate to the top plate. Exterior walls are framed with 2x6 studs, providing the main vertical support and forming the wall cavity for insulation.
- Plates: Horizontal lumber pieces. The bottom plate sits directly on the subfloor, and top plates (usually two, a double top plate) run along the top of the studs, connecting walls and supporting ceiling joists or rafters.
- Headers: Horizontal structural members that span openings for doors and windows. They support the load from the wall and roof above the opening.
- Sills: The bottom horizontal member of a window frame opening.
- Trimmers (Jacks): Shorter studs that run from the bottom plate up to the header, supporting the header.
- Cripple Studs: Short studs above headers or below window sills.
Here's a simple table outlining the primary components mentioned or implied by the reference:
| Component | Material (Typical) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Studs | 2x6 Lumber | Vertical wall support |
| Headers | Lumber | Support load above openings (doors/windows) |
| Bottom Plate | Lumber | Base member nailed to subfloor |
| Top Plates | Lumber | Connects walls, supports load above |
By using 2x6 studs, as is typical for exterior walls, the framing provides necessary structural support and creates a wider cavity for insulation compared to standard 2x4 framing, which is often used for interior walls. Openings for doors and windows are integrated by leaving gaps and structurally framing them with headers to distribute loads.
