We’ll show you how to frame a wall on the floor, then position it into place.
If you want to learn how to frame a wall, there are multiple methods.
You could load the top and bottom plates, then toenail the studs to the plates.
Or, if you have enough space, you’re free to assemble the pieces on the floor.
Then it’s possible for you to tip the wall up and move it into position.
We’ll show youhow to frame a wallusing the latter method.
Set aside roughly an hour to frame an 8x8-foot wall.
Additional footage will require more time.
Prep for the project by installing the wall’s ceiling plate.
Check in several places and use the smallest dimension as the height.
Cut Plates and Studs
Cut the plates and the studsto length.
The length of the studs should be 3 inches less than the wall height you just determined.
This allows for the thickness of two 2x4 plates (1 12 inches each).
Mark Stud Spacing
Hold the plates side-by-side tomark the spacing for the studs.
The most common spacing is 16 inches on center (OC).
This means the distance from one stud’s center to the next’s center is 16 inches.
The space between studs that are 16 inches OC is 14 12 inches.
The first and last studs in a wall are exceptions to the rule.
This makes the space between the first and second studs 13 34 inches.
The last stud in the wall may or may not be spaced evenly.
Its position depends on the length of the wall.
If you do, the edges of your drywall sheets won’t line up with the studs.
Position Studs
Place the studs on edge in between the plates.
If any studs are not perfectly flat, turn them so that any slight gap is at the bottom.
Hold them in position one by one and nail them in placethrough the plates.
verify the edges of the studs are flush with the edges of the plates.
If needed, nail blocking between the studs.
Position the blocking with the wide face out.
Toenail one side of each block.
Here, the pieces are positioned to support a chair-rail molding.
Then, tilt the wall frame up and into place.
If you’re working in tight quarters, you’ll have to build the wall in place.
Start by laying out the plates as described above.
Attach the wall top plate to the plate already attached to the ceiling.
Use a plumb bob to locate the bottom plate.
Anchor it to the floor.
Cut the studs to fit between the plates.
Toenail them in place top and bottom.
Pre-drilling makes nailing easier.
Usually, three nails are adequate, one driven from one side and two from the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this is not recommended if you want to meet building code requirements.
Walls should be built on a firm foundation, no matter their height.
Vinyl wall panels are easy to install because they come with tongues and grooves.
However, the cheapest way to build a wall is by using light structural timber and standard drywall.
