LEARNING RESOURCES

Construction framing involves building the foundation, walls, and roof of a building or home, and installing components like studs, joists, and beams to create its structural skeleton.

Platform framing is the more commonly used method in residential construction, which involves building the first floor deck, then framing the walls and roof on top of it. Balloon framing involves running the wall studs continuously from foundation to roofline.

Framing materials commonly used include wood, steel, and concrete, with wood being the most popular for residential construction, and steel and concrete for commercial or industrial projects.

A rough opening is a wall frame opening left for a window or door, typically larger than its actual size to allow for adjustments during installation.

A load-bearing wall is one that supports the weight of the structure above it, and its removal or alteration requires careful planning and execution.

Roof trusses provide support and stability to a building’s roof, and are typically pre-manufactured to fit its specific dimensions, made of wood or steel.

Sheathing is a layer of material that covers a building’s exterior walls and roof, providing a base for the installation of insulation, siding, and roofing materials.

A joist is a horizontal structural member that supports a building’s floor or ceiling, while a beam is a larger structural member that supports the weight of the structure above it.

Flashing is used to seal and protect areas where two different building materials meet, such as the intersection of a roof and a wall, to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage.

Proper framing ensures the safety and structural integrity of a building, ensuring it can withstand its own weight and stresses, as well as external elements. The building must be plumb, square, and level, that is what we call a TRUE structure.

Wood framing has several advantages that make it a popular choice for construction projects. One of the main advantages is that it is cost-effective compared to other framing materials like steel or concrete, which can make it a preferred option for builders who are working with a budget. Additionally, wood is readily available and a renewable resource, which means it’s easy to source and a sustainable choice for construction. Wood is also lightweight and easy to work with, making it a preferred choice for builders who need to modify it on-site.

Another advantage of wood is its natural insulating quality, which can help reduce energy costs for heating and cooling a building. Finally, wood has a natural warmth and beauty that can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of a building, making it a popular choice among architects and designers.

Post-frame buildings are built faster due to the need for less structural material. The frame features heavy-duty trusses that can be made with multiple different exteriors. Post-frame construction is primarily used in industrial buildings.