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CONSTRUCTION STUDIES
AUSTRALIAN
NATIONAL TRAINING
AUTHORITY
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DP21203N45LRG
RESOURCE PROJECT
STAGE 3
LEARNING PACKAGE
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
AUTHOR:
Barry Oliver
Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE
INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGNER:
This learning package was developed as part of the AVTS Training Program in
Construction Studies.
Noel Ryan
Manager
Construction Curriculum Consortium
Yeronga Institute of TAFE
PO Box 6045
FAIRFIELD GARDENS QLD 4103
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 11
OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................. 13
WHAT IS PROVIDED?............................................................................................... 14
WHAT YOU PROVIDE? ............................................................................................ 14
HOW TO USE THIS PACKAGE............................................................................... 15
GETTING TO “KNOW THE PACKAGE”.......................................................................... 16
KEY TO SYMBOLS .............................................................................................................. 17
MODULE INFORMATION: FROM THE TRAINING SPECIFICATION ....... 19
ASSESSMENT INFORMATION............................................................................... 21
ASSESSMENT SPECIFICATION............................................................................. 22
ASSESSMENT TASKS................................................................................................ 24
ASSESSMENT TASK 1:........................................................................................................ 24
ASSESSMENT TASK 2:........................................................................................................ 26
ASSESSMENT TASK 3:........................................................................................................ 27
ASSESSMENT TASK 4:........................................................................................................ 29
SECTION 1 - FLOOR FRAME CONSTRUCTION ............................................... 31
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................... 31
IDENTIFICATION OF STRUCTURAL TIMBERS, COMMERCIAL SIZES,
QUANTITIES AND COSTING............................................................................................. 33
1. IDENTIFICATION OF STRUCTURAL TIMBER SPECIES......................................... 33
2. COMMERCIAL SIZES ................................................................................................... 34
3. CALCULATING TIMBER QUANTITIES AND COSTING ........................................... 35
TIMBER DEFECTS AND PRESERVATION TREATMENT ............................................ 40
4. IDENTIFYING TIMBER DEFECTS .............................................................................. 40
5. APPLICATION OF PRESERVATION TREATMENT ................................................... 41
TERMITE, VERMIN AND DAMP-PROOF BARRIERS.................................................... 42
6. TERMITE PROTECTION............................................................................................... 42
7. VERMIN PROOFING..................................................................................................... 44
8. DAMP-PROOFING........................................................................................................ 45
SUB-FLOOR CONSTRUCTION........................................................................................... 46
9. POSITIONING, JOINING AND FIXING BEARERS .................................................... 46
10. FLOOR JOISTS ............................................................................................................ 46
11. CONSTRUCTING THE FLOOR FRAMING............................................................... 50
SUMMARY........................................................................................................................ ..... 51
EXERCISE 1: FLOOR STRUCTURE................................................................................... 54
ACTIVITY 1: POSITIONING AND FIXING BEARERS ONTO CONCRETE STUMPS 55
DEMONSTRATION .............................................................................................................. 61
ACTIVITY 2: CONSTRUCTION OF FLOOR FRAMING - INSTALL JOISTS TO SKILL
DEVELOPMENT UNIT......................................................................................................... 62
SECTION 2 - STRUCTURAL STRIP AND STRUCTURAL SHEET
FLOORING ...................................................................................................................65
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................65
STRUCTURAL STRIP AND STRUCTURAL SHEET FLOORING ..................................66
1. SAFETY............................................................................................................................66
2. STRIP FLOORING REQUIREMENTS OF AS1684 CLAUSE 3.9.4. ............................66
3. SHEET FLOORING REQUIREMENTS OF AS1684 CLAUSE 3.9.5............................67
4. STRIP FLOORING QUANTITIES AND COST..............................................................67
5. TYPES AND SIZES OF STRIP FLOORING ..................................................................71
6. LAYING PROCEDURE FOR STRIP FLOORING.........................................................71
7. TYPES AND SIZES OF STRUCTURAL SHEET FLOORING.......................................73
8. LAYING REQUIREMENTS FOR SHEET FLOORING.................................................73
SUMMARY .............................................................................................................................75
EXERCISE 2: STRUCTURAL STRIP AND STRUCTURAL SHEET FLOORING..........77
DEMONSTRATION ...............................................................................................................78
ACTIVITY 3: INSTALLATION OF SHEET FLOORING...................................................79
SECTION 3 - WALL FRAMING FOR A “T” OF “L” SHAPED BUILDING ....81
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................81
TIMBER WALL FRAME CONSTRUCTION AND ERECTION .......................................82
1. HEALTH AND SAFETY ..................................................................................................82
2. TIMBER SPECIES AND COMMERCIAL SIZES...........................................................82
3. WALL FRAME COMPONENTS .....................................................................................83
4. CALCULATE AND COST MATERIALS ........................................................................85
5. SELECTING MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS.........................................................88
6. SETTING OUT, MARKING OUT AND CUTTING........................................................88
7. FABRICATE AND ERECT WALL FRAMES..................................................................89
SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................ .....90
EXERCISE 3: WALL FRAMING ..........................................................................................92
DEMONSTRATION ...............................................................................................................94
ACTIVITY 4 CONSTRUCT AND ERECT EXTERNAL WALLS.....................................95
SECTION 4 - CEILING FRAMING FOR A “T” OR “L” SHAPED BUILDING97
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................97
1. HEALTH AND SAFETY ..................................................................................................98
2. CEILING FRAME COMPONENTS................................................................................99
3. CALCULATE AND COST MATERIALS ........................................................................99
4. MARK OUT, CUT AND CONSTRUCT CEILING FRAME.........................................100
SUMMARY ...........................................................................................................................101
EXERCISE 4: CEILINGS .....................................................................................................102
DEMONSTRATION .............................................................................................................103
ACTIVITY 5: CONSTRUCT THE CEILING FRAME ......................................................104
CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................... .105
ANSWERS ...................................................................................................................107
EXERCISE 1: FLOOR STRUCTURE .................................................................................107
EXERCISE 2: STRUCTURAL STRIP AND STRUCTURAL SHEET FLOORING........109
EXERCISE 3: WALL FRAMING ........................................................................................111
EXERCISE 4: CEILINGS .....................................................................................................113
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Page
ALL STREAMS
BASE TRADE Õ × × ×
FIELD OF WORK SKILLS
CIVIL OPERATIONS STRUCTURES FITOUT AND FINISH SERVICES
(NON-TRADE)
z z z z z
z z z z z z z SERVICE OFF-SITE
z z z z z
z TRADES
×
BASIC STREAM SKILLS
CIVIL OPERATIONS STRUCTURES FITOUT & FINISH SERVICES
Currently
× ××× Under
BASIC INDUSTRY SKILLS Development
CIVIL OPERATIONS STRUCTURES FITOUT & FINISH SERVICES
INTRODUCTION
NFF3101 Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling Framing is a module intended for use by
those completing Stage 3 of a specific, FIELD OF WORK within a SKILL STREAM of
the National Construction Industry Competency Framework
The theoretical components of this package will enable you to complete the practical
requirements of this module All set tasks, including the activities and demonstrations,
will show how the theory or content can be applied in a practical manner in on-site or
simulated on-site conditions
Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling Framing is a module which deals with the
knowledge and skills required to construct and erect a timber building structure and so
includes specific details on:
Four Assessment Tasks meet the requirements of the six Learning Outcomes:
Assessment Task 1
• Select and calculate the type, sizes, amount and cost of timber required to
construct sub-floor framing for a T or L shaped building.
• Prepare timber for use by identifying defects and applying preservative
treatments.
• Construct an area of bearers and floor joists of at least 10 square metres.
Assessment Task 2
• Calculate the quantity and cost of strip and sheet flooring required for a T
or L shaped building.
• Lay both strip and sheet flooring.
Assessment Task 3
Assessment Task 4
This learning package has therefore been developed with four sequential sections, each
section being closely aligned with one of the four Assessment Tasks:
As well as self-check exercises and practical activities, your instructor will schedule
additional oral and/or written tests which may be similar to the self-check exercises.
These tests will satisfy specific Assessment Criteria in the Assessment Tasks and will
apply to your work environment.
When you have achieved all the Assessment Criteria in Assessment Tasks 1, 2, 3 and 4
and your work has been checked and certified by your instructor, you will have
successfully completed the six Learning Outcomes which make up the total off-the-job
component of the whole module NFF3101 Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling
Framing.
OVERVIEW
The overall competencies for this module are summed up in the purpose statement:
In the next section on Module Details, you will find specific details about the Training
Specification and how you will be assessed
When you have successfully achieved all the Assessment Criteria for the four
Assessment Tasks, you will have completed the requirements for this module.
WHAT IS PROVIDED?
You will be provided with the essentials to successfully complete this module,
including:
• a learning package;
• sets of relevant plans and specifications;
• materials, tools and equipment;
• access to work sites; and
• appropriate protective equipment.
This package has been designed so that you can work and learn at your own pace,
incorporating into your own learning program.
It is suggested that you work through the four sections as they are presented.
At times, you will find an illustration on a facing page opposite the text. Such
illustrations will be referred to in the text.
Self-Check Exercises have been included so that you can measure your own progress.
These exercises, however, are not part of the formal assessment of competency.
The module, Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling Framing has a nominal duration of 60
hours, but you may take more or less time working at your own pace.
Here is a strategy which may help you become familiar with the contents of this
package.
• Ask Ask about any topics, terms or details that are not clear to you at
this stage.
• Read Read through the material, but do it actively. Jot down points,
underline or highlight.
Link the information with what you know already.
Let the headings and sub-headings help you organise
information.
Remember that you will need the content to complete the tasks.
• Review At various stages, you will be directed to review the main points
or complete a Self-Check Exercise to indicate how you are
progressing.
Make your own notes as well.
• Instructor Throughout this package, you will be required to attend
practical demonstrations and receive instruction in the use of
materials, tools and equipment.
Ask your instructor if you have any problems with:
interpretation of content;
procedures or processes; or
availability of resources.
KEY TO SYMBOLS
Symbols are placed in the left hand margin to draw attention to the type of information
commencing at that point.
ASSESSMENT INFORMATION
NFF3101 Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling Framing is a module in the National
Construction Industry Competency Framework.
• Competent; or
• Not Yet Competent
You will have completed the learning outcomes when you have successfully achieved
all the Assessment Criteria in Assessment Tasks 1, 2, 3 and 4,. One or more of the
following assessment methods will be used:
ASSESSMENT SPECIFICATION
Assessment Task 1
Assessment Task 2
Assessment Task 3
Assessment Task 4
ASSESSMENT TASKS
ASSESSMENT TASK 1:
• Select and calculate the type, sizes, amount and cost of timber
required to construct sub-floor framing for a T or L shaped
building.
• Prepare timber for use by identifying defects and applying
preservative treatments.
• Construct an area of bearers and floor joists of at least 10 square
metres.
specification requirements.
13. Floor joist positions set out to plans and specifications within
2mm.
14. Floor joists fitted and fixed according to plans and specifications
and AS 1684, clause 3.6.
15. Block or herring-bone strutting installed to deep floor joists in
accordance with AS1684 clause 3.6.2.
16. Trimmed openings constructed so as to comply with AS1684
clause 3.8.
17. All fixings to comply with plans, specifications and AS 1684.
All work practices must ensure that current OH&S requirements are adopted.
• Items 1 to 4 must be performed fully.
• Items 5 to 17 must be performed within the given tolerances.
ASSESSMENT TASK 2:
• Calculate the quantity and cost of strip and sheet flooring required
for a T or L shaped building.
• Lay both strip and sheet flooring.
ASSESSMENT TASK 3:
All work practices must ensure that current OH&S requirements are adopted.
• Items 1 to 6 and 17 to 19 must be performed fully.
• Items 7 to 16 must be performed within the given tolerances.
ASSESSMENT TASK 4:
All work practices must ensure that current OH&S requirements are adopted.
• Items 1 to 5 must be performed fully.
• Items 6 to 18 must be performed within the given tolerances.
READ
INTRODUCTION
NOTE: Trainees and Instructors should ensure that the CYCLONE CODES
relative to their specific area must be identified and used in conjunction
with this learning package.
This first section of this package looks at four areas of Floor Frame Construction::
These four areas include the required information needed to complete Assessment Task
1 which addresses the first three learning outcomes:
1. Identify timber species and list the commercially available sizes and
demonstrate a method of calculating and costing material quantities.
The information presented in this section will enable you to cover the three specific
operations:
The details required for the selection, calculation and preparation of the timber along
with the floor frame construction will be presented under eleven topics:
The identifying process for structural timber species normally starts by looking at the
colour of the timber, the type of grain, visual characteristics, amount of knots and other
imperfections contained in the timber. Density, odour and the colour of the heartwood
are also indicators assisting with identification.
The following table will assist you in identifying the various species of structural
timber.
The above listed timbers are not available in all areas. You could inquire from your
local timber supplier/s as to the timber species and their stress grades available in your
area/district.
2. COMMERCIAL SIZES
Ordering Lengths
Generally the shortest ordering length of timber is 1.2 metres. The ordering lengths
increase by 300 millimetres from there on. Therefore 1.2m + 0.300m = 1.5m which is
the next available ordering length. From 1.5m all you need to do is keep on adding
0.300m or multiples of 0.300m to obtain the desired ordering length.
Lengths of timber up to 5.4m are available without the extra cost of an over length
surcharge applying.
Structural Sizes
The finished size of timber will depend on it being rough sawn, fine sawn or dressed
all round (D.A.R.) If the timber is D.A.R. there will be a 5mm reduction across the
face width and a 5mm reduction in the thickness. Normally only seasoned timber is
dressed for use.
The following list gives an indication of standard sizes available. Other non-standard
sizes are available on special order.
Before attempting to calculate any framing quantities it is advisable to read through the
framing specification to determine the member spacing and their sizes. Failure to
check through the specification could result in under ordering of materials. The
spacing of framing members (excluding bearers) could be 450mm centres, 500mm
centres or 600mm centres.
For calculation purposes in this package the 450mm centres spacing will be used.
The following basic working drawing gives the job dimensions plus some material
sizes and spacings. Your instructor will require you to complete a full working drawing
for the training exercise.
90 x 35 F5
Studs
Quantity Calculations
There are a number of ways to calculate the number of pieces of timber required for a
particular part of a job. The two following methods are quick and easy to use. Your
instructor may show you some alternative methods.
By knowing the scale of the working drawing you are using for quantity calculation you
can scale off the number of timber pieces required.
Step 3 Show the length in metres and number off the scale markings to give the
number of pieces.
Step 4 Lay your scaled line close to each wall on the working drawing and record
the number of pieces required on a quantity list. Remember to include an
extra member or members at wall locations where double joists are
required or for additional studs to form the wall intersection.
• Double joists are required at each end of the building and at the return wall.
• Floor joist spacing is 450mm centres.
• Wall framing thickness is 90mm.
• Formula
NOTE: The 3 is for the extra joist to close off the spaces and the double joists at
each end.
= (2000 - 2 x 90) +3
450
= (2000 - 180) +3
450
= 1820 +3
450
= 4.044 +3
You cannot have part of a space, therefore you must go the next whole number which,
in this case, is 5.
= 5+3
= 8 joists required for Section A.
NOTE: There is only one wall thickness to deduct for Section B as we have already
counted the double joists under the return wall in Section A calculation.
Likewise, there is only one extra joist to add on for the South end wall of
Section B.
If you have difficulty in following the above, draw a sketch of the building
and mark in the double joists and spacings, or see your instructor.
= (2000 - 90) +1
450
= 1910 +1
450
= 4.244 +1
= 5+1
= 6 joists required for Section B
For small purchases the cost is usually based on a price per metre. In the situation you
would need to calculate the total number of metres of floor joist material. To do this
multiply the number of floor joists by the ordering length to obtain the total number of
lineal metres required.
Section A = 8 x 3.0
= 24 metres
Total = 24 + 12.6
= 36.6 metres
NOTE: There is no need to add any percentage allowance for waste as the floor
joists are to be ordered in special lengths, in this case 8/3.0 and 6/2.1.
When selecting a particular species of structural timber for framing purposes your
selection decision may be influenced by either the availability of the timber or the cost
or both of these points.
Another consideration is whether or not to use unseasoned or kiln dried timber as one
may be more readily available than the other depending on the location of the job.
Other features which may need to be considered when selecting a species of timber for
structural framing are as follows:
NOTE: The specification and/or plan could indicate the species of timber to be
used and whether to be seasoned or unseasoned.
Stress graded timber has a limited amount of defects according to the specific grading
rules for a particular species. However some defects may develop or occur after
grading or delivery. The following list of defects are the most common encountered
during construction and therefore should be eliminated if possible.
DEFECTS IN TIMBER
The manufacturers container instructions and any Safety Data Sheets are to be read and
the instructions followed for maximum user safety.
The types of application methods that would normally be used on-site are either a brush
or roller.
Thoroughly clean up any split liquid preservative and use a safe disposal method for
any empty preservative containers, cleaning/absorption cloths, redundant brushes or
rollers and any contaminated personal protective equipment.
Seal any unused containers of preservative and store them along with any brushes
and/or rollers in a well ventilated area.
6. TERMITE PROTECTION
All waste timber, off-cuts and scraps must be removed prior to laying of the flooring
material.
The Australian Standard AS 3660.1 1195 Termite Control in new buildings gives
guidance on the systems of termite barriers that will satisfy the BCA.
Once installed these termite barriers must not be breached therefore when alterations
or extensions are carried out on a protected building the termite barriers must be intact
and remain intact during and after any modifications.
Floor frame construction in termite prone areas will normally require the installation of
a termite barrier on the inside of the sub-floor perimeter for brick veneer construction
as well as ant caps over stumps or ant caps only for weatherboard type construction.
It may be necessary to work in with termite barrier installers during the construction
stages which may cause some inconvenience and minor time delay.
The following diagrams show the positioning for perimeter termite shielding, ant caps
on stumps and brick piers. It is advisable to provide a damp-proofing barrier under the
ant caps on concrete stumps and brick piers to prevent corrosion.
7. VERMIN PROOFING
Some states in Australia require the installation of a vermin proof barrier. Depending
on the type of construction method which determines where the vermin barrier is to be
placed, the barrier material itself normally consists of a galvanised or stainless steel
mesh with holes or apertures small enough to prevent mice from penetrating the mesh.
The following diagram shows where vermin proofing is located at floor frame level in
brick veneer construction.
8. DAMP-PROOFING
Where timber floor or wall frames are positioned on concrete or masonry it is necessary
to provide a damp-proof barrier between the concrete or masonry and the timber to
prevent rising moisture entering the timber.
SUB-FLOOR CONSTRUCTION
Bearers
Bearer joins will occur over the top of supporting stumps. Refer to figures 9, 10 and
11.
NOTE: The type, number and size of tie downs will depend on the design of the
building and the area in which it is being built. For example: Buildings
exposed to high winds require more tie downs than buildings constructed
in sheltered or protected areas.
The position of floor joists will have to be set out onto the bearers from the
measurements taken from the floor plan. The walls running at right angles or 90° to the
bearers will require double supporting joists underneath them. It is these double joist
positions which will have to be set out onto the bearers first at each end of the bearers
and under wall positions. Once all of the double joist positions have been set out
correctly the intermediate floor joists can be set out onto the bearers to the required
spacings.
It may also be necessary to set out the intermediate floor joists to suit and provide end
support for sheet flooring. Heavy floor loading support for items such as pianos,
waterbeds, spa baths, etc. may require additional floor joists at much closer spacings.
Fixing the floor joists to the bearers is normally done by skew nailing a 75mm nail
through each side of the floor joist and into the bearer. In extremely high wind areas
the use of galvanised metal brackets or tie-down straps may be required also.
Splitting of the timber at the end of the floor joists, caused by poor nailing, must not
occur so as to avoid the replacing of damaged floor joists. The butt joining of floor
joists should only occur where necessary, the floor joists should be lapped joined by at
least 300mm and nailed securely together.
Floor joists or bearers which are required to act as cantilevers, supporting at their free
end a single-storey external load-bearing wall or required to support offset load-bearing
internal walls, shall be located in accordance with Clause 3.7 AS1684 in which the
maximum cantilevers and offsets are given, or they shall have been designed in
accordance with engineering principles.
The use of large size floor joists is becoming more widely encountered to overcome the
use of numerous rows of stumps and bearers where problem soils occur on-site. In
areas where moderately or highly reactive soils are encountered a sub-floor system may
be incorporated in the overall footing design to reduce or eliminate the problems
associated with settlement and heaving of the foundation soil.
You may find that bearers are of heavy steel or light gauge ‘C’ section upon which are
fixed large size/large span floor joists. In this situation additional techniques and
requirements will be encountered and more thought is required as construction
proceeds.
Large size floor joists could be a product from the following list.
• Layout Diagram
Some of the above products will be used in a designed floor frame system which will
require a joist numbering system to be followed from a joist layout diagram.
The structural design of large size joist floor systems is occurring much more these
days and it may be necessary to allow for and work in with other tradespeople such as
plumbers, electricians and heating appliance installers.
The size of large span joists starts at about 175 x 38 and increases to 400 x 75. Sizes of
200 x 50 and 250 x 50 are most commonly used.
The following diagram, Figure 6, shows blocking and strutting techniques and gives an
example of deep/large floor joists.
• Openings in Floors
Where openings are required in floor frames, including deep joisted floors, the
requirements of AS1684-1992 or the timber framing manual must be followed to
provide adequate support for the floor frame opening members.
Any timber joints formed or metal support brackets used must adequately transfer the
opening loads without weakening the opening structural members.
Timber joints such as a half housing or mortice and tenon joint are quite suitable.
Alternatively patented galvanised steel support brackets or saddles may be used. When
using such brackets or saddles it is important to follow the installation instructions for
maximum
support.
To construct the floor framing a sequence of procedural steps should be followed, this
provides for an easy system of construction and a safe system of working.
When installing and fixing bearers in position the following step procedure and
diagrams indicate how you should go about installing and fixing bearers.
Instruction
1. You are required to understand the methods of locating bearers on the top of the
stumps.
External bearers can be fixed flush with the external face of the stump, or
in from the external face of the stump a distance equal to the thickness of
the external cladding.
Internal bearers must be fixed in the centre of the stump.
2. When selecting bearer material sight along the edge to test for straightness.
SUMMARY
So far you have covered procedures for identifying and construction of sub-floor
framing and also gained an overview of protection methods against termites.
The knowledge you have gained so far will be used each time you begin work on a
building site. The importance of this information will become more evident when you
begin the practical activities later in this package.
Self-Check Exercises in this package are on yellow pages. This first exercise has been
designed to test your understanding of the information you have covered so far.
Remember that the self-check exercises are not part of the formal assessment of
competency for this module.
Answers to the self-check questions are on the blue pages at the end of the package.
You may find it useful to make your own brief summary/notes on the eleven topics in
Floor Frame Construction.
Commercial Sizes:
Termite Protection:
Vermin Proofing:
Damp Proofing:
Floor Joists:
SELF-CHECK
1. When considering the strength of the member we take into consideration what
distance the member can span. How is span defined?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
3. If packing is required between the underside of a bearer and the top of the
supporting stump what type of packing material is allowable?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
4. What is the maximum depth of checking out that can be made in the underneath
side of a bearer over a stump at the point of support?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
5. What is the standard/nominal fixing requirements for floor joists to bearers for
wind speeds up to 41m/s?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
PRACTICAL
ACTIVITY
After you have selected the appropriate bearers for the job, lay the bearers beside the
stumps in the position they will be used.
Step 1 Position the bearer onto the row of stumps and temporarily secure it by
bending a nail around the stump rod (as shown), and mark the rod position
on the bottom edge of the bearer.
Step 2 Drill a 12mm hole for the 10mm rods from the bottom edge of the bearer.
Step 4 Chisel the recess slot for the bent over portion of the rod through the bearer
on alternate sides.
Step 5 Place the bearers in position bending all rods to fix them in place.
READ
Follow the same procedure as for concrete stumps but with the steel rod and damp-
proofing on the stump deleted. Fixing the bearer to the stump will normally be by
nailing, straps or anchor rods depending on tie down requirements. Refer to the
specification.
The requirements for joints in bearers in the Timber Framing Manual and AS1684 -
1992 are somewhat brief when stating the type of joint to be used.
The type of joints most commonly used for joining bearers are:
• Halving joint
• Butt joint
• Splayed joint
Additional nail plates (one to each side), are required on the bearer for the butt joint and
the splayed joint. The minimum bearing a bearer should have on a stump is at least
25mm therefore careful measuring is necessary.
The following procedures can be used when joining bearers on concrete or timber
stumps:
• Halving Joint
Typical method of joining bearers on Concrete Stumps. Use nails to hold the bearers in
position as previously described.
Mark out the position of the halving joints and the position of the holes for the tie down
rods in the manner shown above.
Due to slight variations in the line of stump heights and/or timber width variations it
may be necessary to pack under the bearer with an incompressible, corrosion-resistant
sheet material over the full area of the stump.
Bearers having minor excesses in depth should be brought to the required level by
checking out of their undersides over supports up to a suggested 10mm maximum.
Figure 13 indicates acceptable packing and checking out of the bearer underside.
DEMONSTRATION
Your instructor will determine the nature and type of demonstration before you begin
the practical activities.
Example 1:
Positioning and fixing the outside double floor joists which should be the straightest of
the floor joist material.
The outer face of the outside double floor joists need to be kept flush with the end or
end positional mark of the bearer.
Skew nailing of the outside double floor joists should be done toward the inside face of
the bearer to avoid splitting the end of the floor joist material.
Join the outside double joists over the internal bearers will be achieved by using mitred,
splayed or square butt joints.
Example 2:
Positioning and fixing the internal double floor joists. Your instructor may advise you
to allow the ends of these double joists to run past the outside face of the external
bearer and cut them off later to a straight chalk line mark.
Skew nail the ends of the double joists so as to avoid end splitting and in their correct
position.
Join over internal bearers, if required, using mitred, splayed or square butt joints.
Example 3:
Positioning, fixing and lap joining the intermediate floor joists. Sighting the joists for
straightness in their mid length prior to fixing the centre of the joists over internal
bearers.
The three demonstration examples above have to be achieved to meet the assembly
requirements of the relevant Timber Framing Manual for floor joist installation.
PRACTICAL
ACTIVITY
Introduction
When fixing the floor joists it is important that they are laid over the bearers in straight
and parallel lines with their top surface set accurately to a common top surface level to
receive the flooring.
Each floor joist is fixed at each bearer crossing by two 75mm nails skew nailed from
the sides, or as specified.
There are a number of different ways that floor joists can be laid to a level top surface,
your instructor will discuss some of the methods with you.
Your instructor will also require you to read some of the relevant requirements of floor
joists which can be obtained from the Basic Training Manual 14.5.
Instruction
1. Your instructor will select a method of fixing floor joists. He will also select the
joist material specification.
Task
Standard
NOTE: If packing is used the packing must not be able to be moved by the hand
and must meet the Timber Framing Manual Specifications.
READ
INTRODUCTION
In Section 1 you completed the steps required to properly construct floor framing.
This section follows on in the normal sequence of building operation. However, the on-
going practical activities you will complete need not necessarily be carried out on the
same project..
In general terms, Section 2 deals with strip flooring and sheet flooring.
These three components include the essential information you will need to complete
Assessment Task 2 which addresses the learning outcomes:
1. Identify timber species and list the commercially available sizes and
demonstrate a method of calculating and costing material quantities.
2. Select materials and install timber strip flooring and sheet flooring.
The information relating to strip and sheet flooring will be presented under eight topics:
• Safety
• Strip Flooring Requirements of AS1684 Clause 3.9.4
• Sheet Flooring Requirements of AS1684 Clause 3.9.5
• Strip Flooring Quantities and Cost
• Types and Sizes of Strip Flooring
• Laying Procedure for Strip Flooring
• Types and Sizes of Sheet Flooring
• Laying Requirements for Sheet Flooring
1. SAFETY
When installing structural flooring a safe and healthy system of work should be used to
avoid any minor or major accidents.
The use of electric saws, electric planers and air operated nailing guns create areas of
danger that should not be overlooked.
The term structural strip flooring indicates there is a structural load to be carried by the
floor. The Australian Standard AS 1170.1-1989 specifies a minimum uniformly
distributed load of 1.5 kPa for general house floors is required. The thickness of the
strip flooring combined with the floor joist spacing achieve the required load rating.
The requirements for structural strip flooring in AS1684 - 1992 Clauses 3.9.3 and
3.9.4.2. sub clauses (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) cover the following areas:
The floor joist spacing for the type and thickness of strip flooring is covered in Table
3.1 of AS1684 - 1992.
For structural sheet flooring the same loading requirements apply as for structural strip
flooring. AS1684 - 1992 Clause 3.9.5.2 sub clauses (a) (b) (c) and (d) cover the
following areas:
To calculate the amount of strip flooring for a house or building you will need to follow
the steps listed below:
EXAMPLE:
FORMULAE
Area in m2 of building. Because of the “L” shape split the building into two rectangles.
= 10 m2
90mm
= 10
0.09
= 111.111m
= 116.67m
= 117m
The above could also be worked out in a one step formula for the quantity then
applying the costing.
= (L x W) + (L x W) + 5%
90mm
= (3 x 2) + (2 x 2) x 1.05
0.09
= 116.67m
= 117m
Australian 1782 20
Softwoods
The above table gives a brief outline of structural strip flooring. The three gradings list,
merchantable, standard and select are from lowest quality to best quality respectively.
The width of strip floorings range from 160mm, 140mm, 120mm, 100mm, 90mm and
70mm. Other special sizes are available.
Cutting Down
The boards selected with sound tongues and grooves are cut to lengths to make end
joints over the centres of joists. Boards run through doorways from room to room with
the board ends cut accurately to form neat joints. These joints should not be close
together but staggered as much as possible. At fireplaces and hearths, full surround or
return margins are often laid. Allowances for these margins must be made when cutting
down the boards.
A straight board is selected and nailed down with the tongue 10mm from the wall. One
nail is driven home about 32mm from the wall at each floor joist, and a second nail is
driven almost home 15mm from the grooved edge. The slackness of the second nail
allows a little freedom for the tongue of the second board to slip into the groove. Three
or four boards are then laid, making sure that the tongue of one fits into the groove of
the adjacent board in preparation for cramping.
A straight piece of timber that has square edges is laid on the joists beside the outside
board, and floor cramps are used to squeeze boards tightly together as in Figure 18.
Closing Joints
When cramping the boards, hammer on their face with a loose block to help jar them
into position. Make sure the tongue fits the groove for the full length of the board. A
pinch-bar or heavy chisel is sometimes used as a lever to assist in making the end to
end joints tight. Double nail the board to all the joists at approximately 15mm from the
edges, leaving the nail at the outer edge only partly driven, as in the case o the first
board. The cramps are then removed and the process repeated.
A greater number of boards, not exceeding 900mm measured across the flooring boards
with pressure suited to the moisture content of the flooring, may be cramped together in
the remaining rows. The smaller number of boards used at the beginning is to ensure a
straight line across the joists.
The floor cramps cannot be used on the last three or four rows, so these are forced
tightly together using a chisel, pinch-bar, or length of timber as a lever.
For tongue and grooved plywood sheet flooring the thickness of the sheets combined
with the stress grading will determine the spacing of the floor joists. Refer to table 3.2
in Australian Standard AS1684-1992.
The sheet sizes range from 2700 x 1200, 2400 x 1200, 1800 x 1200, 2400 x 900 to
1800 x 900 with other sizes available.
Installation
When installing structural tongue and grooved sheet plywood flooring it is mandatory
that the requirements of AS1684, clause 3.9.5.2 and sub clauses (a), (b), (c), and (d) be
followed.
• Lay the sheet with the top ply grain at right angles to the floor joists.
• Unless tongued and grooved, ends and edges of sheets are to be jointed
over joists or noggings not less than 75 x 38, flush with the top of the joists.
• The minimum nail length should be 50mm, preferably with a deformed
shank and a shank diameter of 2.8mm.
• Nail spacing of 150mm centres along sheet edges and ends and 300mm
centres over the rest of the sheet.
• Joins at ends of sheets should be staggered.
SUMMARY
So far you have covered the theory of laying strip and sheet flooring as well as the
quantity and cost of strip flooring.
You may find it useful to make your own brief summary/notes on the eight topics in
Strip and Sheet Flooring.
Safety:
SELF-CHECK
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
3. For a fitted floor what is the minimum clearance distance between the bottom
wall plate and the flooring running parallel to the wall?
_______________________________________________________________
4. For sheet flooring what are the standard sheet nail spacing requirements for the
following?
6. What type of adhesive should be used between the flooring sheets and the floor
joists?
_______________________________________________________________
DEMONSTRATION
Your instructor will determine the nature and type of demonstration before you begin
the practical activities.
Example 1:
A preliminary check of the top surface of the floor joists will be required before
commencing to install the sheet flooring. Your instructor will demonstrate the
straightening technique and indicate where packing or planing of the floor joists is
required.
Example 2:
Example 3:
As you proceed with the installation of the sheet flooring you may have difficulty in
getting the joints of the sheet flooring to fit together without any gaps. Your instructor
will demonstrate how to apply controlled moderate pressure to the sheet being laid
without dislodging previously laid flooring sheets.
Although it is not difficult to install sheet flooring, care must be taken to ensure tight
fitting joins without gaps, correct application of adhesive and correct nailing of the
sheet flooring. Failure to take sufficient care during installation may result in the sheets
lifting at the joins and squeaking occurring where the flooring sheets are not fixed to
the floor joists.
PRACTICAL
ACTIVITY
You will find it useful to refer back to Figure 19 while carrying out this activity.
• Measure and mark the floor sheet width at each end of the floor frame
where the first row of sheets are to be laid.
• String a line through where the first and second row will join.
• Lay the first sheet into position and ensure the sheet lines up with the joist
at the end and with the string line, then tack into position.
• Lay the second sheet in the first row, tap the end joint together carefully by
using a short length of timber at the sheet end and tapping with a small
sledge hammer. After closing join and aligning with string line tack the
second sheet into position.
• Repeat the process described above for the remainder of the first row sheets
while ensuring a straight line along the string line edge. Any waste may be
cut off at this point or when all floor sheets have been laid.
• Commence laying the second row of floor sheets by cutting the first,
second row sheet in half or lay the sheet and cut the sheet after laying
(check with your instructor). Tap the edge join together carefully so as not
to move or dislodged any of the first row sheets, then tack nail the sheet
into position.
• Proceed laying the remainder of the floor sheets and tack nail as
instructions require.
• Cut off any waste at end to a line. Remove all waste and clean up floor
area.
NOTE: If permanent fixing of the floor sheets is required use the floor adhesive as
per fixing instructions, drive nails home and punch below sheet surface if
required.
READ
INTRODUCTION
In Section 1 and 2 you completed all of the steps required to construct a floor frame
and install structural flooring materials.
This section follows on in the sequence of building operations however the practical
activities you will complete need not necessarily be carried out on the same site or
project.
In general terms, Section 3 deals with timber wall frame construction and erection.
These three components include the essential information you require to complete
Assessment Task 3 which addresses learning outcomes:
1. Identify timber species and list the commercially available sizes and
demonstrate a method of calculating and costing material quantities.
5. Select materials and components, mark out, cut, fabricate and erect a
wall frame. Straighten and prepare necessary frames for truss
loading.
The information relating to timber wall framing will be presented under seven topics:
It is necessary to consider Health and Safety and safe system of work requirements
encompassing timber wall framing. The areas for consideration are listed below:
From the list above the two most dangerous considerations should be the framing type
nailing guns and the electric saws.
The maintenance necessary to keep this equipment in good working order should never
be overlooked, otherwise there is potential for a very serious accident.
If fabricating and erecting wall frames in weather conditions with strong winds
prevailing you must be aware there is a possibility of the erected walls being blown as
well as being erected becoming dislodged and slipping off the floor frame or flooring
surface.
Always be aware of fellow workers because your safety may depend on them,
alternatively their safety could depend on you.
If you are using any temporary scaffolding, erect and use the correct scaffolding safely.
For wall framing purposes the type of timber used will either be a hardwood or a pine
species. Throughout Australia the location of the building site will determine the type
and species used due to local availability unless a particular species specified.
In termite prone areas a durable, termite resistant species should be used. Durable
hardwood species such as Tallow Wood, Gympie Messmate or Turpentine would be
quite suitable. A durable Australian softwood, White Cypress Pine, is quite suitable as
well as being readily available and reasonably priced.
As building practices vary slightly from state to state throughout Australia the
commercial timber sizes available vary ever so slightly to meet the local builders needs.
However, due to the use by builders of AS1684-1992 the elimination of state
differences is almost complete. A preference for a timber wall thickness of 70mm or
90mm still occurs as some builders prefer the 20mm gained by a thinner wall size.
The common wall stud sizes range from 70 x 35, 70 x 45, 90 x 35, 90 x 45, 75 x 38, 75
x 50, 100 x 38 to 100 x 50. Both seasoned and unseasoned timbers are used.
During the cutting and fabrication process for wall framing it is important to avoid any
delays in production. It is therefore necessary that you are fully familiar with the
component terminology to avoid asking repetitive questions about which member is
this, where does it fit in the frame or what size should it be.
In the exploded diagram, Figure 20, the most common wall and ceiling framing
members are shown and labelled. You are required to know all of these components,
their common required size and where they fit into the wall and ceiling framing.
Before attempting to calculate and cost the wall framing components it is extremely
useful to list the wall frame components in a format that saves time and avoids any
components being inadvertently omitted.
The collecting list below is an example of how to list the wall frame components along
with other information necessary for ordering purposes.
When considering the quantities required for wall framing you need to encompass the
material quantities for the whole frame. As you progress with the quantities required it
should become apparent that some common timber sizes and lengths are recurring, for
example 90 x 35 with a length of 4.8m.
The 4.8m length readily suits ceiling joist lengths, wall plate lengths for wall frames on
concrete slabs, also two wall studs can be cut out of the 4.8m (2/2.4 = 4.8).
The waste factor is not a real consideration as there are many framing components that
can be cut from any short pieces remaining.
Another major benefit gained be having common timber sizes and lengths is that you
can order and purchase the timber in pack size allots meaning you are able to purchase
bulk quantities at a much lower cost. This means your job quotes will have lower
prices when tendering for work.
To calculate the quantities for top and bottom wall plated a copy of the building plan is
used onto which the length of the wall plates are written, exactly where they are to be
located on the job. This method also assists greatly during the construction stages.
From the wall plate lengths marked on the plan in Figure 21 it can be seen that the only
wall plate length that needs to be ordered is 4.8m. Seven 4.8m lengths of plate material
would be more than sufficient, with any off cuts used for noggins and/or trimmers.
NOTE: By having all of the wall plates in long lengths selecting straight material
for top plates is made much easier. Also the time taken when sorting out
timber into the various lengths is reduced.
The wall stud quantities can be calculated either by using a copy of the building plan to
scale off and mark the studs in their appropriate positions, which is of great assistance
during construction, or by the computation method and calculating the studs in each
wall separately. Top and bottom jack studs may be counted as full studs if fitted above
and below a window opening, otherwise no studs are allowed for where window and/or
door openings occur.
Scaling off and marking off stud positions is shown in Figure 22.
NOTE: From the experience you gained in costing in Sections 1 and 2 you should
be able to cost the timber for wall frames.
When selecting material from the timber stack to be used for wall plates and studs the
material selected should be as straight as possible. Pieces of timber with excessive
spring, bow, twist, etc are best put aside for use in less critical parts of the framing.
Wall plates, especially top wall plates must be as straight as possible to provide a
straight line for the rafters and a straight line inside the rooms, especially when
plastering will show up any deviation from straight.
Wall studs for corners both internal and external, should be straight. Jamb studs for
window and door openings are to be straight to avoid alignment problems when
installing window and door frames. Head and sill trimmers should also be as straight
as possible. Lintels should have minimum spring to avoid incorporating depressions
and rounding in the finished roof line above the walls.
The setting out of the wall positions onto the floor joists or the floor sheeting surface
will require accurate measuring. Where possible, permanent wall position marks
should be drawn onto the sides of bearers as they will become a means of locating the
correct wall position when nailing down the bottom plates after erecting the walls.
After the initial set out of the wall positions in accordance with the floor plan and all
double checking of positions has occurred a chalk line is used to permanently mark the
wall positions.
The bottom wall plates are then laid out, marked to the required wall length and then
tacked into position. The top wall plates are laid out into position and tacked on top of
the bottom plates, forming a pair of wall plates for each wall.
The stud positions are then marked on the edge of the wall plates, outside edge on
external walls and the edge seen during assembly for internal walls. Window and door
openings are determined and marked out first followed by partition and corner stud
positions. Next, mark out the position of load bearing studs (i.e. studs that are to
support concentrated loads such as strutting beams and girder trusses) and then
intermediate studs. It is advisable to mark the room number in the middle edge of the
plates and a North, South, East or West directional mark on the top corner of the top
plates.
The rafter positions are then set out and marked onto the top face of the top plated and
the ceiling joist positions marked out, usually on the left or right hand side of the rafter
positions. This means that you will need to refer to the wall frame plan and the
roof/ceiling plan when seeing out the wall plates.
It may be necessary to consider rafter positions when setting out the floor joists as the
rafters are required to be located above the wall studs and the wall studs located above
the floor joists.
It is advisable if not necessary to set out a pattern stud. The pattern stud length is
determined by calculating the overall wall height which incorporates the required
ceiling height inside the rooms, the ceiling lining thickness, ceiling battens if specified,
any fitted flooring thickness and wall sheet fitting clearance.
The pattern stud length, for walls located on top of a platform floor, is achieved by
deducting the top and bottom wall plate thickness from the overall wall height. The
pattern stud has various trimmer positions and heights marked on it which give the
required jack stud lengths for door and window openings. Listed below are some of the
trimmer positions and heights marked on the pattern stud.
A list of wall framing components is made from measurements obtained from the stud
positions set out and the pattern stud airing the lengths of window head and sill
trimmers, jack studs, noggings, door head trimmers, wall studs, etc, also including the
number of components required. The wall frame components are cut to the required
length and placed in separate stacks for easy identification and availability during
assembly. This process is known as pre-cutting requiring at least two people to work
together constantly measuring, cutting, counting and checking component numbers.
The wall framing components are laid out on the floor and assembled together as near
as possible to where the wall will be erected and located in its final position. Read and
follow the steps listed in Building A House Framing Practices, Chapter 1, pages 92 to
104, for details on fabricating and erecting wall frames.
To plumb the walls and straighten the top plates in readiness for the ceiling frame
installation read pages 104 to 106 also. Seek assistance from your instructor to help
clarify any points or methods you may not fully understand.
The type of bracing will type A bracing units for each of the walls to be braced. Your
instructor will determine which of the walls will have metal bracing and those to have
sheet bracing. See BUILDING A HOUSE, Pages 116 to 122.
SUMMARY
In this section you have covered the theory and procedures for the construction and
erection of wall framing.
Self-Check Exercises in this package are on yellow pages. These exercises have been
designed to test your understanding of the information you have covered so far.
Remember that the self-check exercises are not part of the formal assessment of
competency for this module.
Answers to the self-check questions are on the blue pages at the end of the package.
You may find it useful to make your own brief summary/notes on the seven topics in
Wall Framing.
SELF-CHECK
1. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for wall plates to studs
for the following wall plate thickness?
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
2. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for noggings to wall
studs?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
3. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for bottom plates in load
bearing walls fixed to floor joists for the following plate thickness?
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
6. What type of joint is permitted in bottom wall plates and what is the provision
that must be achieved?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
7. What are the fixing requirements for walls at intersections and junctions when
fixing external and internal corners together?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
8. What is the maximum vertical spacing for closely fitted solid timber noggings?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
10. What is the maximum bracing notch depth for F5 wall studs in single storey load
bearing walls?
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
DEMONSTRATION
Your instructor will determine the nature and type of demonstration before you begin
the practical activities.
Example 1:
Constructing wall frames is a fairly easy task providing consideration is given to the
easy nailing in of the wall frame components. For example, if three or four wall studs
are to be fixed closely together it would be advisable to install the small noggings or
corner blocks before nailing in all of the close fitting wall studs.
When fixing in window lintels, head trimmers and sill trimmers it is advisable to fix
these components in first with the secondary jamb stud before fixing in the jamb.
So as to avoid difficult mailing and or removing components from the wall frame your
instructor should explain and demonstrate how the wall frames should be constructed
to make component installation and nailing as easy as possible.
Example 2:
Your instructor will demonstrate how to install the wall bracing correctly to avoid over
cutting of the wall studs and proud fitting bracing which may interfere with the
installation of the dry wall plaster sheets.
PRACTICAL
ACTIVITY
To carry out this activity you will need to use correct manual handling techniques when
lifting and manoeuvring the assembled walls into position. You may also require
assistance from another person when lifting and manoeuvring the assembled walls.
All work must be carried out according to the criteria and tolerances specified in
Assessment Task 3.
You may find it useful to refer back to relevant segments of the instructional material
while carrying out this activity.
You will need to follow the steps and diagrams in Building A House: Framing
Practices, Chapter 1, pages 92 to 103 inclusive and refer beck to relevant segments of
the text while carrying out this activity.
• Lay out the top and bottom wall plates of the wall to be constructed.
• Nail plates to end wall studs first. Nail in intermediate and jamb studs, nail
in trimmers and mark nogging height on stud edges.
• Once all remaining walls have been constructed and erected straighten
corner studs and nail wall corners together. Plumb external wall corners,
then straighten walls using temporary bracing or struts where required,
make ready for ceiling frame.
READ
INTRODUCTION
In Section 1 and 2 you completed all of the steps required to construct a floor frame
and install flooring materials. In Section 3 you completed all of the steps required to
construct and erect the wall frames.
This section follows on in the sequence of building operation. The practical activities
you will complete in this section will be more understood if carried out on the same site
or project.
In general terms, Section 4 deals with constructing a ceiling frame for a “T” or “L”
shaped Building.
These three components include the essential information you require to complete
Assessment Task 4 which address learning outcome:
The information relating to ceiling framing will be presented under four topics:
It is necessary to consider the Health and Safety and safe work practice requirements
encompassing timber ceiling framing. The areas for consideration are listed below:
When using the framing type nailing guns during construction of the ceiling frame you
should only use well maintained nailing guns that have double action safety
mechanisms. The use of single action nailing guns, which permit “bounce firing”, can
cause nail injuries to hands, any other part of the body or accidental firing of the nailing
gun and injuring other workers on site. The attachment of a metal hook onto the
nailing gun casing allows the nailing gun to be hooked over the top plate when not in
use.
Portable electric saws must have guards working properly and all safety features
attached when being used at heights where limited working platform area is available.
Working at dangerous heights, such as ceiling frame height, requires the ability to
balance oneself on narrow pieces of timber during the early construction stage.
The use of scaffolding is somewhat impractical and cost prohibitive, however once the
ceiling joists are in place timber planks should be laid out for easy access over the
ceiling frame.
Safety for yourself and fellow workers begins with knowing where your fellow workers
are, so that if you drop something from the ceiling frame or are carrying a long length
of timber they will not be injured if you become careless. Also you must ensure all
ceiling frame components are nailed securely in place as to avoid leaving traps that
someone could fall through. You would expect fellow workers to do the same for you
and others thereby eliminating the risk of an accident.
The basic ceiling frame for a timber framed dwelling with a gable roof consists of the
following members:
• Ceiling joists
• Jack joists
• Ceiling trimmers
• Hanging beams
• Hanger blocks
• Hanger bracing
• Joist straps
The basic gable roof consists of a pair of rafters located along the top plates running the
length of the building, nailed at the birdsmouth ends at the top plates and the ends of
the ceiling joists. Collar ties are attached to the middle of each pair of rafters to provide
mid span rafter support for each pair.
The top or plumb cut end of each pair of rafters are fixed to a ridge board running the
full length of the building with any overhang allowance left extend beyond the end
pairs of rafters.
For a skillion roof the walls supporting the rafters are at different heights to give the
roof slope or pitch. The rafters are usually single span and have a minimum size
birdmouth at each end where they are fixed to the top wall plates. If a level ceiling is
required the ceiling joists will be positioned along side the rafters and supported by the
top plate of the lower wall and fixed to the sides of the wall studs in the high wall to a
level and straight line. Additional noggins may be incorporated into the high wall to
support the ceiling joists and provide fixing for plaster wall sheeting.
Material quantities for the ceiling frame should be calculated room by room so that no
components are overlooked. A floor plan diagram copy may be used and renamed
ceiling frame plan with the number and length of ceiling joists indicated for each room,
also hanging beam length and size indicated for each room.
The ceiling frame plan is then used to write up a list of ceiling joist sizes and lengths,
also hanging beams for the whole job. A list with similar format to that shown in Topic
4 Section 3 should be drawn up with each of the rooms listed and the number of ceiling
joists and hanging beams listed also. The required number of joist straps and bracing
for hanging beams listed as well.
Your instructor will assist you in drawing up the ceiling component list and in
calculating the required number of components for the ceiling frame. The costing
methods will be the same as that used in costing the floor frame components.
Marking out the positions for the ceiling joists normally takes place when the wall
plates are laid out on the floor frame to avoid the difficulty of marking out after the
walls are erected. The ceiling joist positions for a gable roof are located along side the
rafter positions so that the lower end of the rafters can be securely fixed to the ceiling
joists as well as the top wall plates and therefore tying the roof frame together across
the building.
See BUILDING A HOUSE: Framing Practices, Chapter 1, page 129 to 136 for a
comprehensive description a ceiling frame component positioning and construction.
Where the ceiling joists are used for the fixing of plaster ceiling sheets and cornices the
end ceiling joists are normally positioned 50mm away from the wall position to suit
50mm cornice or 90mm for a 90mm cornice. This method reduces the required
number of cross trimmers and saves time.
SUMMARY
In this section you have covered the theory and procedures for the preparation and
erection of ceiling framing.
Self-Check Exercises in this package are on yellow pages. This exercise has been
designed to test your understanding of the information you have covered so far.
Remember that the self-check exercises are not part of the formal assessment of
competency for this module.
Answers to the self-check questions are on the blue pages at the end of the package.
You may find it useful to make your own brief summary/notes on the topics in Ceiling
Framing:
SELF-CHECK
EXERCISE 4: CEILINGS
1. What are the standard fixing requirements for ceiling joists to top wall plates?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
DEMONSTRATION
Your instructor will determine the nature and type of demonstration before you begin
the practical activities.
Example 1:
Having all of the ceiling joists up on the top of the wall frames and laid in their
appropriate position your instructor will demonstrate how to securely fix them in
position alongside the rafter marks and how to lap join the ceiling joists where splicing
is required.
Example 2:
Your instructor will explain and demonstrate how to measure and pre-cut the hanging
beams before they pulled up on the ceiling joists.
Example 3:
When all of the hanging beam support blocks are in position your instructor will
demonstrate how to skew nail the hanging beams into position, stand them up and
brace them in the vertical position.
Example 4:
The ceiling joists will have to be pulled up tight to the underside of the hanging beams
before attaching the joist straps. Your instructor will demonstrate how this process is
done in a safe manner to prevent you slipping through or falling off the ceiling frame.
PRACTICAL
ACTIVITY
To carry out this practical activity, Construct the Ceiling Frame, you may need to erect
some temporary scaffolding to provide a suitable working platform. The scaffold will
make it much safer when loading the ceiling joists onto the top wall plates, nailing
them into position and cutting off any waste.
1. Mark out the ceiling joist positions and fix the ceiling joists to the top plates.
2. Mark out the hanging beams and fix the ceiling joists to the hanging beam.
3. Brace the hanging beams and fix the joist straps to alternative sides of the
hanging beam.
All work must be carried out according to the criteria and tolerances specified in
Assessment Task 4. Follow the steps set out below:
• Mark ceiling joists positions onto top face of the top wall plates in
conjunction with rafter position at 450mm centres to suit a gable roof.
Also mark positions of additional ceiling joists required for plaster cornice
fixing. (At this point measure the cross trimmer lengths in between ceiling
joist positions at wall intersections if they are to be used in the ceiling
frame.)
• Select appropriate length ceiling joists for each room, load ceiling joists
onto wall plates and lay them in position with any spring or rounds in to
edges of the ceiling joists facing upwards. Correctly nail ceiling joists to
top wall plates.
• Fix hanger packing blocks onto top wall plates, cut and nail all ceiling
trimmers into position. Lay out timber planks for temporary support when
installing hanging beams.
• Select appropriate size, (see span tables), and length hanging beams, mark
on ceiling joists positions, lay in place and then stand up hanging beams
and fix and brace securely into position.
• Skew nail hanging beams to ceiling joists through opposite sides, ensure all
ceiling joists are pulled up tight to hanging beams, then alternatively attach
and fix joists straps to the ceiling joists and hanging beams.
CONCLUSION
This learning package has combined the theoretical and practical components required
for Module NFF3101 Timber Floor, Wall and Ceiling Framing.
You have now completed Practical Activities 1, 2, 3 and 4 where you were able to
apply the theory of timber floor, wall and ceiling frame construction. The methods
shown and used are only some of those you will encounter in the building industry.
You will need to keep an open mind and be ready to adapt to the alternative method
that you will encounter in order to be more productive and more highly skilled in an
ever changing building industry.
These activities, in conjunction with the oral and/or written tests scheduled by your
instructor, will have covered all of the Assessment Criteria for the Assessment Tasks 1,
2, 3 and 4.
Having successfully completed the requirements of this module, you now understand
the provisions and procedures required for timber floor, wall and ceiling framing. In
addition, you have applied the knowledge and skills in a number of on-site situations.
These included fixing down timber bearers and floor joists, constructing and erecting
timber wall frames and constructing a basic ceiling frame.
You can expect to apply your knowledge and skills continuously on a range of building
sites. The information contained in this module will enable you to go on to more
advanced modules therefore gaining more knowledge and additional productive skills.
Those who developed this package hope that you have found its style and presentation
easy to follow.
SELF-CHECK
ANSWERS
1. When considering the strength of the member we take into consideration what
distance the member can span. How is span defined?
A member supported at or near both ends and at one or more evenly spaced
points between the ends.
3. If packing is required between the underside of a bearer and the top of the
supporting stump what type of packing material is allowable?
4. What is the maximum depth of checking out that can be made in the underneath
side of a bearer over a stump at the point of support?
10 millimetres.
5. What is the standard/nominal fixing requirements for floor joists to bearers for
wind speeds up to 41m/s?
Two 75 x 3.1mm skew nails for continuous span joists. Single span joists
require in addition to 2/75 x 3.1mm nails, a framing anchor with 3/2.8mm
diameter nails to each leg at each end of every second joist.
SELF-CHECK ANSWERS
The flooring material is installed after the wall framing stage is completed.
The flooring material is installed before the construction and erection of the
wall frames.
3. For a fitted floor what is the minimum clearance distance between the bottom
wall plate and the flooring running parallel to the wall?
10 millimetres.
4. For sheet flooring what are the standard sheet nail spacing requirements for the
following?
150mm centres.
300mm centres.
Yes
6. What type of adhesive should be used between the flooring sheets and the floor
joists?
SELF-CHECK ANSWERS
1. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for wall plates to studs
for the following wall plate thickness?
(a) 38mm thick Two 75mm nails at each stud plus steel strap tie down
if required.
(b) 50mm thick Two 90mm nails at each stud plus steel strap tie down
if required.
2. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for noggings to wall
studs?
3. What are the standard/nominal nail fixing requirements for bottom plates of load
bearing walls to floor joists for the following wall plates thickness?
A wall that carries ceiling loads only or no load other than itself.
6. What type of joint is permitted in bottom wall plates and what is the provision
that must be achieved?
7. What are the fixing requirements for walls at intersections and junctions when
fixing external and internal corners together?
The studs are to be securely fixed with evenly spaced blocking 200mm long
and nails.
8. What is the maximum vertical spacing for closely fitted solid timber noggings?
1350mm between the face of the wall plate and nogging plate.
30° to 60°
10. What is the maximum bracing notch depth for F5 wall studs in single storey load
bearing wall?
20 millimetres, depending on section, size of stud, roof load, roof span and
wind code area.
SELF-CHECK ANSWERS
EXERCISE 4: CEILINGS
1. What are the standard fixing requirements for ceiling joists to top wall plates?
The full width of any wall plate on which they are supported.
Skew nailing and timber or metal hanger straps on alternating sides of the
hanging beam at each joist crossing.
The full width of any wall plate on which they are supported.