Building your own home with your bare hands used to be a thing. Now we rely on contractors and builders to do it for us. Although it takes them less time, the fun of building something on your own can not be replaced.
The one thing that people are afraid of building a home is how to frame a long wall. All those measurements, instruments, accurate cuts and fails to make our PTSDs higher. But it is actually easy if you know the steps.
That is why we have come up with a few of the easiest steps to guide you through framing your long wall.
How to Frame a Long Wall on Your Own
Although it might sound a bit overwhelming at first, framing a long wall is actually easier than baking a cake. All you need is a few handy tools that are already in your shed. Or you can buy or rent some out from your neighborhood hardware store. Here are the things you will need.
- Circular saw.
- Hammer.
- Measuring tape.
- Water leveler.
- Wood planks and studs. (Depends on your area)
- Nails and screws. (According to your preference)
- Safety gloves and goggles.
Step 1: Measure Your Area
The first and foremost important thing is to measure out your area. Without the correct measurement, you won’t be able to estimate the number of wood planks and studs you will need. So do it precisely. Use a measuring tape or a laser tape measure to get an accurate reading.
Step 2: Cut Your Wood Studs, Planks
After you have measured the wall you are going to frame, you get an estimate of the amount of wood you will need. Buy them from the hardware store or home depot. For framing, 2”/4” is mainly used by any construction farm. So better stick to it. Measure out your ceiling length and cut the studs out.
You will need to cut additional studs that will go around the frame horizontally.
Step 3: Install Both Top and Bottom Plates
Use screws to install both plates on the bottom and the top. Remember to mark the center of the plate which will help you later on with installing the frame.
Step 4: Install the Studs
The studs are one of the foundation parts of any wall. They not only hold the wall and frame in place but other appliances that are installed later on in the house are attached to them. So secure them with extra screws for security.
Step 5: Install Framing
The best way to put up the wall framing is to assemble it first. Measure from the bottom to the top plate and then start nailing down the Frame on the floor. Make sure you use a water level meter to keep the whole structure straight.
When it is done, put it up against the wall studs and secure it with screws and nails.
All you are left with is the planks and wallboard that will now cover the frame to finish the wall.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I frame a 40-foot wall?
To frame a 40-foot wall, you will apply the balloon framing technique. This means more joists nailed to the studs, cutting down stud lengths, and installing a more heavy framing. As the wall is bigger, you can break the framing down into halves, which will ensure more grounding, strengthening the wall all over. Also, you will need to install a few columns to hold the whole structure together. Otherwise, the high wind will bring it down or pick it up easily.
How do I frame a tall 16-wall?
Depending on the state you live in, there are special recommendations for tall walls of 16ft. You will need to incorporate brick or concrete along with 16″ lumber to build the wall. Break the frame into segments of studs, and polls, and never use an 8′ wall underneath the structure.
How do I frame and extend a wall?
To frame and extend a wall, you will need to cut the studs, install cut plates and secure them with screws and move on to the next framing. Always use screws to secure the extended walls instead of nails while extending. Make sure you are following the building code of the state you are living.
Conclusion
While wall framing seems a lot of hard work, the calculation is the main element. If you do it right and work according to it, your frame will be up in no time. Make sure you read the building guideline of your state as they differ from one another. And for better security, always install more studs.
