BUILDING TRADES II

INTRODUCTION TO FRAMING

TEACHERS
GUIDE
 INTRODUCTION
This Teachers Guide provides information to help you get the most out of Introduction to
Framing. The contents in this guide will allow you to prepare your students before using
the program and present follow-up activities to reinforce the programs key learning
points.

Introduction to Framing introduces the process and materials used in framing a building.
The video provides detailed information on the types of products used in framing and the
benefits and challenges of each type. In addition, the program also discusses the different
methods used to frame and when each method might be used. Students are also exposed
to a common seven-step process used to frame buildings.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
After viewing the program, students will be able to:
Discuss the different types of framing materials and when to use each.
Describe the three different methods for framing a building.
Describe the benefits and appropriate use of the different framing methods.
List the step-by-step process for framing a building.

EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS
National Standards
This program correlates with the National Competency Standards and Objectives from the
National Standards for Construction Education and Research. The content has been
aligned with the following educational standards and benchmarks from this organization.

Identify the different types of framing systems.

Identify floor and sill framing and support members.
State the uses of various types of hardwoods and softwoods.
Explain how plywood is manufactured, graded, and used.
Describe the proper method of caring for lumber and wood building materials at the
job site.
Identify applications for metal stud systems.

The competencies and objectives from the NCCER have been reprinted with permission.

English Language Arts Standards

The activities in this Teachers Guide were created in compliance with the following
National Standards for the English Language Arts from the National Council of Teachers of
English.

Use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for
learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).
Adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style,
vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different
purposes.
Employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process ele-
2 ments appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
Copyright 2004 Meridian Education Corporation
 Use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases,
computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and
communicate knowledge.
Conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by
posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources
(e.g., print and nonprint texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries.

Standards for the English Language Arts, by the International Reading Association and the National Council
of Teachers of English, Copyright 1996 by the International Reading Association and the National Council of
Teachers of English. Reprinted with permission.

Technology Standards
The activities in this Teachers Guide were created in compliance with the following
National Education Technology Standards from the National Education Technology
Standards Project.

Develop positive attitudes toward technology uses that support lifelong learning, col-
laboration, personal pursuits, and productivity.
Use a variety of media and formats to communicate information and ideas effectively
to multiple audiences.
Employ technology in the development of strategies for solving problems in the real
world.
Use technology resources for solving problems and making informed decisions.
Use technology tools to enhance learning, increase productivity, and promote creativity.
Use technology tools to process data and report results.
Use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information from a variety of sources.

The National Education Technology Standards reprinted with permission from the International Society for
Technology Education.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Framing is the fundamental building block in many aspects of home construction.
Introduction to Framing details the basics of many framing applications, including layout
terms and principles, construction techniques, and standard framing plans.

MAIN TOPICS
Topic 1: Introduction
Section defines framing and discusses the things students should do before beginning a
framing project.

Topic 2: Types of Framing Products

Topic discusses the different types of materials that can be used to frame a building and
the benefits and drawbacks of each type. Section describes the different types of woods
and their appropriate uses and includes a detailed discussion on the appropriate wood to
use in framing.

3
 Topic 3: Types of Wood Construction
Section describes the three types of wood framing construction and reviews each type in
detail, describing the benefits and appropriate application of each type.

Topic 4: Step-by-Step Framing Process

Reviews the seven steps that are typically followed when framing a building and discusses
each step in detail.

Topic 5: Conclusion
Section reviews the key learning points of the video and introduces the next series of
videos which deal with more advanced framing topics.

FAST FACTS
Framing can be done with a variety of different materials, including wood, metals
such as light-gauge steelconcrete, or polystyrene blocks.
Wood has a good strength-to-weight ratio, which means it can support a lot of weight
for its size.
Softwoods are light timber and are easy to work with and less likely to warp than hard-
woods.
Hardwoods are stronger than softwoods due to their density and weight. They are
good for making furniture, flooring, and other kinds of better housing materials.
Although construction lumber is generally dry, it does contain moisture and will contin-
ue to dryand shrinkas you work with it and after you are finished. The shrinkage of
the load-bearing members can cause settling.
There are three main types of wood construction: balloon construction, platform or
western construction, and post-and-beam construction.
With well-thought-out planning, post-and-beam framing can reduce material and labor
costs.
A mortise-and-tenon joint is made when you cut a slot, or mortise, into a board so that
the tenon, or tongue, of another board can slip into it to form a joint.
The 24-inch module method of framing uses plywood over lumber thats spaced on a
24-inch module. Then all the framing, floors, walls, and roofs are spaced 24 inches on
center.
The Arkansas system of framing is an energy-saving system that uses 2x6 wall studs
spaced 24 inches on center. This spacing allows for placing a more energy efficient
insulation system.
Welded-wire sandwich panels are an alternative framing method consisting of a poly-
styrene or polyurethane insulation core surrounded by a welded-wire space frame.
Foam-core panels are an alternative framing method made of foam material sand-
wiched by two facings, typically oriented strand board, waferboard, or plywood.
Platform framing is the most commonly used method in residential construction.

4
VOCABULARY TERMS
balloon construction: Balloon framing consists of wall studs and first-floor joists resting
on the sill and studs running from the sill to the plate.
framing: The wood used for the structural members of a building, such as studs, joists,
and rafters.
glu-lam: Glue-laminated timbers.
Mortise-and-tenon joint: Joints that are made when you cut a slot, or a mortise, into a
board so that the tenon, or tongue, of another board can slip into it to form a joint.
plates: The horizontal 2x4s or 2x6s in the framing to which the vertical framing pieces, or
studs, are attached.
platform construction: In platform construction, the floor is built first and then the walls
are erected on top of the floor.
post-and-beam construction: Post-and-beam construction uses just a few big posts and
beams to support the entire building.
sill plate: Plate that is anchored to a concrete or masonry wall.
sole plate: Plate that is the bottom piece of a frame wall.
studs: Vertical wood or metal elements, normally 2x4s, eight feet long, that support walls
and partitions.
top plate: Plate that is the top element of a frame wall that supports ceiling joists and
rafters.

PRE-PROGRAM DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What materials might be used in framing a building?
2. What are the different types of framing methods that can be used in construction?
3. What should you consider and/or review prior to beginning the framing process?
4. What are the differences between hard and soft woods? Why would you use one over
the other in framing?
5. If you think of framing as a step-by-step process, what are some of the steps that
might be a part of framing a residential building?

POST-PROGRAM DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. How has engineered wood changed the framing process?
2. What are the benefits/risks of using wood to frame a building?
3. List the seven steps to framing a building and describe each one in detail.
4. What are the three classifications of wood, and when do you use each one in framing
a building?
5. What are some of the benefits of platform framing?

GROUP ACTIVITIES
Framing Materials Report
Groups research the different types of materials available for framing and write a brief
report of the benefits and drawbacks to using each material. Reports should consider
environment, cost, availability, ease of use, durability, and strength.

5
 Framing Methods Report
Assign small groups one of the three framing methods (post-and-beam, platform, or bal-
loon) and ask them to research the process for building a home using their assigned
method. Based on their research, groups should create a 3-to-5-minute presentation
describing the process. Students should be encouraged to create diagrams, etc., to use in
presenting their findings to the larger class.

Review Blueprints
Provide groups with a set of blueprints and ask them to identify key aspects of the fram-
ing. For example, ask them to identify all of the load-bearing walls, headers, sills, etc.
Once groups have finished that task, ask them to switch blueprints with another group
and have the groups check the accuracy of the work the first group did in identifying the
framing elements.

INDIVIDUAL STUDENT PROJECTS

Lumber Yard Trip
Ask students to visit a lumber yard and price out the different types of products (i.e.,
wood, metal, concrete, and polystyrene blocks) to determine the cost differences between
each type of product. Then provide them with the amount of material needed to frame a
house and ask them to calculate the cost difference for each product.

Engineered Lumber
Students research the use of engineered lumber and write a report on the changes this
product has made to the process of framing. Reports should also address the benefits of
using engineered lumber during framing.

Settling Report
Students research the effects of settling on a building (due to lumber shrinkage) and dis-
cuss the steps they can take during the framing process to reduce the amount of shrink-
age a building incurs.

INTERNET ACTIVITIES
Alternative Framing Products Research
Ask students to use the Internet to research alternative products used in framing build-
ingssuch as foam-core panels and welded-wire sandwich panelsto develop a brief
summary report on the appropriate application, benefits, and challenges of each
approach.

Energy/Material Conservation Framing

Ask students to use the Internet to research energy-conscious framing methodssuch as
the 24-inch model method or the Arkansas systemto develop a list of pros and cons for
using these types of methods over more traditional methods of framing.

Roof Framing
Students will use the Internet to identify two to three different types of roofs (e.g.,
hipped, gable, flat, shed) and then write a brief summary of the methods and challenges
6 of framing each type they selected.
ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
Q: Describe the post-and-beam method for framing a building.
A: Post-and-beam construction uses just a few big posts and beams to support the entire
building.
Feedback: With post-and-beam, you use fewer pieces of lumber, but they are much
larger and can hold heavier loads. For that reason, they can be spaced more widely.

Q: As wood used for framing loses its natural moisture, what is likely to occur to the
building structure?
(a) Settling
(b) Expanding
(c) Equalizing
(d) Leveling
A: (a)
Feedback: Although construction lumber is generally dry, it does contain moisture and
will continue to dry, and shrink, as you work with it and after you are finished. As it
shrinks, the shrinkage of the load-bearing members can cause settling.

Q: Describe the platform method for framing a building.

A: In platform framing, the floor is built first and then the walls are erected on top of the
floor. Often this is done by assembling the wall on the floor first and then tilting the
unit up into place.
Feedback: The platform frame provides a flat surface on which to work. Its the least
complex of the framing systems and can be built cost-effectively and in a timely manner.

Q: Before you begin framing construction, you should study the ______________.
A: blueprints
Feedback: Studying the blueprints before framing will ensure that you make the most
efficient use of time and of your framing crew.

Q: Softwoods are good for the following uses:

(a) furniture-making
(b) flooring
(c) framing
(d) trim detail
A: (c)
Feedback: Softwoods are lighter timber. They are easy to work with and less likely to
warp than other woods. These are factors that make them good for frame construction.

Q: Describe the balloon method for framing a building.

A: Balloon framing consists of wall studs and first floor joists resting on the sill and studs
running from the sill to the plate, and was popular during colonial times.
Feedback: When construction essentials like sawmills and mass-produced cut lumber
became part of the building process, balloon framing evolved into platform framing.

7
 Q: Glue laminated timbers are a form of laminated wood called _______?
A: glu-lam
Feedback: Glu-lam, or glue-laminated timbers are an example of the new technology in
construction lumber.

Q: The first step in the framing process is to:

(a) make the cutting list.
(b) snap the lines.
(c) construct the horizontal frame elements.
(d) lay out the studs.
A: (b)
Feedback: The first step in the framing process is snapping the lines. This is placing chalk
lines on the platform that show where the exterior and interior walls are going to be
built.

Q: The most popular kind of residential framing construction is platform framing, also
called _____________.
A: western
Feedback: Western or platform framing is also called stick framing.

Q: Plating is when you:

(a) snap the lines on the platform.
(b) identify the door and window locations on the platform.
(c) mark the place for the studs.
(d) construct the horizontal frame elements.
A: (d)
Feedback: Plating is when you construct the horizontal frame elements. Plates are the
horizontal 2x4s or 2x6s in the framing to which the vertical framing pieces, or studs, are
attached.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WEB SITES

How Your House Works

www.hometips.com/hyhw/book/housetop.html

ToolBase ServicesFraming Methods

www.toolbase.org/secondaryT.asp?TrackID=&CategoryID=1153

Contractor-books.com
http://contractor-books.com

8
BOOKS

Graphic Guide to Frame Construction: Details for Builders and Designers, by Rob Thallon.
Taunton Press, 2000. ISBN: 1561583537

Framing Roofs: The Best of Fine Homebuilding (For Pros by Pros Series), by Fine
Homebuilding. Taunton Press, 2001. ISBN: 1561583286

House Framing, by John D. Wagner. Creative Homeowner Press, 1998. ISBN: 1880029987

OTHER PRODUCTS
Residential Carpentry Framing (Series), VHS/DVD, Meridian Education
A step-by-step how-to series of videos that will show your students how to build.
Whether working with floor, wall, ceiling, or roof framing, viewers get a first-hand look at
construction procedures, safety issues, and proper tools. A clear explanation of each step
provides in-depth information while viewers watch actual carpenters do the work.
Notes are given throughout offering tips and safety warnings. Carpenters carefully
review the plans for layout, materials, and any variations. Starting with floor framing and
using the platform method, carpenters place sills and check the foundation to make sure
its level. Students see how girders and joists are installed and how spacing marks are
made and transferred. Construction terms are used throughout as specific steps are
demonstrated. Students learn about header joists, story poles, bridging, framing open-
ings, and how to lay down subflooring. Moving on to wall framing, carpenters carefully
make layout marks, chalk the subflooring, cut and place the plate stock, and mark studs,
cripples, trimmers, and corner studs. Studs, headers, and trimmers are cut to proper size
and wall components are pre-assembled. The walls are nailed, braced, and then raised
into place. Ceiling framing and roof framing follow the same pattern...taking students
through the construction process...providing clear instructions and demonstrating each
step. Throughout each video, safety concerns are addressed and helpful tips highlighted
that the professionals use. The series includes Residential Ceiling Framing, Residential
Floor Framing, Residential Roof Framing, and Residential Wall Framing.
Item no: 26204, www.meridianeducation.com, 1-800-727-5507

Careers in Construction Trades, CD-ROM, Shopware

This interactive CD-ROM guides users through several occupations in the construction
industry, including cement masons, bricklayers, plumbers, pipe fitters, carpenters, and
electricians. Video interview segments include information on the background of each
job, what is expected of the employee, qualifications, subjects in which to enroll, what
the job is like, expected wages, and outlook for each job. Interactions and quiz segments
appear throughout the program to help reinforce concepts and information. (Windows)
Item no: 20434, www.shopware-usa.com, 1-800-487-3392

9
 2572 Brunswick Pike
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

CALL TOLL FREE

800.727.5507
WWW.MERIDIANEDUCATION.COM

COPYRIGHT 2004 MERIDIAN EDUCATION CORPORATION 31952

 BUILDING TRADES II
FLOOR AND WALL FRAMING

TEACHERS
GUIDE
 INTRODUCTION
This Teachers Guide provides information to help you get the most out of Floor and Wall
Framing. The contents in this guide will allow you to prepare your students before using
the program and present follow-up activities to reinforce the programs key learning
points.

This program introduces the process and terms used when framing a buildings floors and
walls. The video provides detailed information on steps that need to be completed to
frame floors and walls, and the terms used during this process.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
After viewing the program, students will be able to:
List the steps to take before beginning to frame.
Describe the process for framing the floor of a building.
Describe the process for framing the walls of a building.
Define basic framing terms.

EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS
National Standards
This program correlates with the National Competency Standards and Objectives from the
National Standards for Construction Education and Research. The content has been
aligned with the following educational standards and benchmarks from this organization.

Identify the components of a wall layout.

Describe the procedure for laying out a wood frame wall, including plates, corner
posts, door and window openings, partition Ts, bracing, and firestops.
Describe the correct procedure for assembling and erecting an exterior wall.
Lay out, assemble, erect, and brace exterior walls for a frame building.
Read and understand drawings and specifications to determine floor system require-
ments.
Identify floor and sill framing and support members.
Name the methods used to fasten sills to the foundation.
List and recognize different types of floor joists.
List and recognize different types of bridging.
Demonstrate the ability to lay out and construct a floor assembly and install bridging.

The competencies and objectives from the NCCER have been reprinted with permission.

English Language Arts Standards

The activities in this Teachers Guide were created in compliance with the following
National Standards for the English Language Arts from the National Council of Teachers of
English.

Use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for
learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

2
Copyright 2004 Meridian Education Corporation
 Adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style,
vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different
purposes.
Employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process ele-
ments appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
Use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases,
computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and
communicate knowledge.
Conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by
posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources
(e.g., print and nonprint texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries.

Standards for the English Language Arts, by the International Reading Association and the National Council
of Teachers of English, Copyright 1996 by the International Reading Association and the National Council of
Teachers of English. Reprinted with permission.

Technology Standards
The activities in this Teachers Guide were created in compliance with the following
National Education Technology Standards from the National Education Technology
Standards Project.

Develop positive attitudes toward technology uses that support lifelong learning, col-
laboration, personal pursuits, and productivity.
Use a variety of media and formats to communicate information and ideas effectively
to multiple audiences.
Employ technology in the development of strategies for solving problems in the real
world.
Use technology resources for solving problems and making informed decisions.
Use technology tools to enhance learning, increase productivity, and promote creativity.
Use technology tools to process data and report results.
Use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information from a variety of sources.

The National Education Technology Standards reprinted with permission from the International Society for
Technology Education.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Floor and Wall Framing instructs students on the how-to of floor and wall framing. Topics
include girders and studs, installing sills, installing floor joists and sub-flooring, construct-
ing shoes and plates, assembling exterior house walls, erecting exterior house walls, and
constructing interior partitions.

MAIN TOPICS
Topic 1: Introduction
Section describes the different framing methods and discusses what builders should do
before beginning a framing project.

3
 Topic 2: Framing the Floor
Topic discusses the steps to completing the first step in framing a building: framing the
floor. Video covers how to set snap lines, construct girders, lay out the sill plates, lay the
joists, and install the bridging.

Topic 3: Framing the Walls

Section discusses the steps to framing walls and partitions. Video covers how to frame
exterior and interior (partition) walls, create a layout, mark the studs for the wall ends,
measure and mark headers and other wall openings, construct the wall, and place the
wall.

Topic 4: Conclusion
Section reviews the key learning points of the video.

FAST FACTS
There are three main types of wood construction. Balloon construction, platform (or
western) construction, and post-and-beam construction.
Platform framing is the most commonly used method in residential construction.
A girder is a heavy beam, usually made of wood, that supports the inner ends of the
floor joists.
In conventional residential construction, joists are nominal 2-inch-thick pieces of lumber
placed on their edge and usually spaced 16 inches on center.
To frame out an opening, you first put the trimmer joists in place. Trimmer joists are
joists that line the inside of the opening to make it stronger.
Rough work, as framing is sometimes called, is out of sight when the house is com-
pleted, but has to be as exact as the finish work that everyone sees in their homes.
Interior walls are also called partitions and can be both load-bearing and non-load-
bearing.
Trimmer, or jack, studs are shorter pieces of lumber that are the sides of the openings
and run from the sole plate to the top of the opening.
King studs are the full-length studs that are nailed to the trimmers to help reinforce the
opening.
When on-center studs are cut so that the opening fits in the frame, those studs are
called cripple studs.
Cripple studs above openings are sometimes called close studs.
When the diagonals of a partition or wall are equal, the frame is square.

VOCABULARY TERMS
balloon construction: Balloon framing consists of wall studs and first-floor joists resting
on the sill and studs running from the sill to the plate.
bridging: The small wood pieces inserted between the floor joists to brace the joists and
help spread the load.
floor joists: The horizontal members of the frame that transfer the load to the girders
and foundation.
framing: The wood used for the structural members of a building, such as studs, joists,
and rafters.
4
girder: A heavy beam, usually made of wood, that supports the inner ends of the floor
joists.
header: The lumber that is laid at a right angle to the trimmer joists to support the open-
ing.
plates: The horizontal 2x4s or 2x6s in the framing to which the vertical framing pieces, or
studs, are attached.
platform construction: In platform construction, the floor is built first and then the walls
are erected on top of the floor.
post-and-beam construction: Post-and-beam construction uses just a few big posts and
beams to support the entire building.
sill plate: Sill plates are pieces of pressure-treated lumber, generally 2x6s, that lie directly
on the foundation wall and provide the bearing for the floor joists.
trimmer joists: Joists that line the inside of the opening to make it stronger.

PRE-PROGRAM DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What are the different types of framing methods that can be used in construction?
2. What should you consider and/or review prior to beginning the framing process?
3. When framing, where do you use a double snap line vs. a single snap line?
4. In conventional residential construction, what is the typical thickness of the joists?
5. What is another word for framing?

POST-PROGRAM DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What are the different types of studs used in framing?
2. Describe the two kinds of bridging used in framing.
3. Why are cripple studs used during framing?
4. What process should you use for building an opening?
5. What are the steps involved in framing a wall with a door and window opening?

GROUP ACTIVITIES
Framing Materials Report
Groups research the different types of materials available for framing and write a brief
report of the benefits and drawbacks to using each material. Students should consider
environment, cost, availability, ease of use, durability, and strength in their reports.

Framing Tools
Assign small groups to identify the key tools needed in framing floors and walls and then
create a diagram that shows a building in the framing stages and identifies which tools
should be used for each task on the diagram.

Review Blueprints
Provide groups with a set of blueprints and ask them to identify key aspects of the fram-
ing. For example, ask them to identify all of the load-bearing walls, headers, sills, etc.
Once groups have finished that task, ask them to switch blueprints with another group
and have the groups check the accuracy of the work the first group did in identifying the
framing elements.
5
 INDIVIDUAL STUDENT PROJECTS
Inspections
Ask students to visit several construction sites (with permission from the builder) to deter-
mine how well the principles discussed in this video are followed on various job sites. For
example, is the subfloor complete before walls are built and secured, is the work site clear
of debris, etc. Students should write a brief summary of their findings.

Correcting Errors
Students research what to do if, during their preparation for framing, they determine that
the deck is not level or square in certain spots. Students will write a brief report on steps
they can take to compensate for the errors.

Framing a Wall
Students draw a diagram of a wall with a window and a door on the wall and label each
of the pieces of the frame.

INTERNET ACTIVITIES
Alternative Framing Products Research
Ask students to use the Internet to research alternative products used in framing build-
ings, such as foam-core panels and welded-wire sandwich panels. Have students develop
a brief summary report on the appropriate application, benefits, and challenges of this
approach.

Determine Wall Thickness

Ask students to use the Internet to research when to use 2x4 vs. 2x6 lumber in construct-
ing walls and the benefits and drawbacks of each choice. Students should write a brief
paper describing their findings.

Safety Precautions when Framing

Students will research the safety precautions they should take when framing a building.
Their list should include equipment and tips framers can use to make their workplace
safer.

ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
Q: List the three framing techniques used to frame homes.
A: Post-and-beam, balloon, and platform.
Feedback: The most common form of framing is platform framing.

Q: Describe the platform method for framing a building.

A: In platform framing, the floor is built first and then the walls are erected on top of the
floor. Often this is done by assembling the wall on the floor first and then tilting the
unit up into place.
Feedback: The platform frame provides a flat surface on which to work. Its the least
complex of the framing systems can be built cost-effectively and in a timely manner.

6
Q: Before you begin framing construction, you should study the _________.
A: blueprints
Feedback: Before you begin any construction, review the plans. Double-check the plans
for framing details such as the location of openings or rough-ins for HVAC, plumbing,
and electric. Also make sure you know which are the load-bearing walls.

Q: Prior to framing, you should:

(a) check the foundation deck to ensure it is level, square, and at the correct eleva-
tion.
(b) establish your starting point.
(c) snap your lines.
(d) construct the girders.
A: (a)
Feedback: Before framing begins, check the foundation deck for elevation, level, and
square. Never assume that it is perfectly square.

Q: A girder is:
(a) a piece of pressure-treated lumber, generally 2x6, that lies directly on the foun-
dation wall.
(b) a heavy beam usually made of wood that supports the inner ends of the floor
joists.
(c) horizontal member of the frame that transfers the load to the joists and foun-
dation.
(d) a joist that lines the inside of the opening to make it stronger.
A: (b)
Feedback: A girder can be one solid heavy piece of wood or it can be a built-up girder,
created by nailing or bolting two or more pieces of dimension lumber together.

Q: To frame out an opening, you first put the _________ in place.

A: trimmer joists
Feedback: Trimmer joists are joists that line the inside of the opening to make it stronger.

Q: _________ consists of small wood pieces inserted between the floor joists to brace the
joists and help spread the load.
A: Bridging
Feedback: Bridging is the final step to framing a floor.

Q: Describe the two types of bridging techniques.

A: Solid wood bridging consists of solid, upright pieces of wood between the joists on a
staggered plane. Wood cross-bridging consists of staggered diagonal strips between
the joists.
Feedback: Solid wood bridging is usually used on outdoor decks.

Q: When framing walls, the first thing you should do is:

(a) tack the top plate to the sub floor.
(b) establish your starting point.
7
 (c) create a layout.
(d) create the sole plate.
A: (c)
Feedback: In framing the walls first, create a layout. Starting at the corners of the longest
wall, measure in from the outside edge the thickness of the exterior wall. Pull a snap line.

Q: Framing is often called ________________, as it is out of sight when the house is com-
pleted.
A: rough work
Feedback: Even though the framing is out of sight once the project is finished, it has to
be as exact as the finish work that everyone sees in their homes.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WEB SITES

How Your House Works

www.hometips.com/hyhw/structure/structure1.html

ToolBase ServicesFraming Methods

www.toolbase.org/secondaryT.asp?TrackID=&CategoryID=1153

Contractor-books.com
http://contractor-books.com

BOOKS

Graphic Guide to Frame Construction: Details for Builders and Designers by Rob Thallon.
Taunton Press, 2000. ISBN: 1561583537

House Framing by John D. Wagner. Creative Homeowner Press, 1998. ISBN: 1880029987

Builders Essentials: Framing & Rough Carpentry by Scot Simpson & R. S. Means Company.
Robert S. Means Co., 2001. ISBN: 0876296177

OTHER PRODUCTS
Residential Floor Framing, VHS/DVD, Meridian Education
Finally, a step-by-step how-to series of videos that will show your students how to
build. Whether working with floor, wall, ceiling, or roof framing, viewers get a first-hand
look at construction procedures, safety issues, and proper tools. A clear explanation of
each step provides in-depth information while viewers watch actual carpenters do the
work. Notes are given throughout offering tips and safety warnings. Carpenters care-
fully review the plans for layout, materials, and any variations. Starting with floor framing
and using the platform method, carpenters place sills and check the foundation to make
sure its level. Students see how girders and joists are installed and how spacing marks are
made and transferred. Construction terms are used throughout as specific steps are
8 demonstrated. Students learn about header joists, story poles, bridging, framing open-
ings, and how to lay down sub flooring. Moving on to wall framing, carpenters carefully
make layout marks, chalk the sub flooring, cut and place the plate stock, and mark studs,
cripples, trimmers, and corner studs. Studs, headers, and trimmers are cut to proper size
and wall components are pre-assembled. The walls are nailed, braced, and then raised
into place. Ceiling framing and roof framing follow the same pattern...taking students
through the construction process...providing clear instructions and demonstrating each
step. Throughout each video, safety concerns are addressed and helpful tips highlighted
that the professionals use. Give your students the opportunity to see actual on the job
construction before they try it themselves. A great series to add to any construction/build-
ing trades program! Part of the series Residential Carpentry Framing.
Item no: 26199, www.meridianeducation.com, 1-800-727-5507

Residential Wall Framing, VHS/DVD, Meridian Education

Finally, a step-by-step how-to series of videos that will show your students how to
build. Whether working with floor, wall, ceiling, or roof framing, viewers get a first-hand
look at construction procedures, safety issues, and proper tools. A clear explanation of
each step provides in-depth information while viewers watch actual carpenters do the
work. Notes are given throughout offering tips and safety warnings. Carpenters care-
fully review the plans for layout, materials, and any variations. Starting with floor framing
and using the platform method, carpenters place sills and check the foundation to make
sure its level. Students see how girders and joists are installed and how spacing marks are
made and transferred. Construction terms are used throughout as specific steps are
demonstrated. Students learn about header joists, story poles, bridging, framing open-
ings, and how to lay down sub flooring. Moving on to wall framing, carpenters carefully
make layout marks, chalk the sub flooring, cut and place the plate stock, and mark studs,
cripples, trimmers, and corner studs. Studs, headers, and trimmers are cut to proper size
and wall components are pre-assembled. The walls are nailed, braced, and then raised
into place. Ceiling framing and roof framing follow the same pattern...taking students
through the construction process...providing clear instructions and demonstrating each
step. Throughout each video, safety concerns are addressed and helpful tips highlighted
that the professionals use. Give your students the opportunity to see actual on the job
construction before they try it themselves. A great series to add to any construction/build-
ing trades program! Part of the series Residential Carpentry Framing.
Item no: 26201, www.meridianeducation.com, 1-800-727-5507

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