Installation: Framing Vocabulary

Double top plate

also known as a cap plate; it is installed after the walls are complete and laps over the top plate at each intersection

Span

distance between two supports for a structure within a building or home

Bridging

method of laterally bracing joists to provide stability and stiffness

Rafters

parallel beams which support a roof

Foundation

part of an architectural structure which connects it to the ground

plumb

perfectly vertical

Joists

piece of lumber which is used horizontally to support a ceiling or floor

Headers

structure members which run perpendicular to the floor and ceiling joists

Cut sheet

term used for pages with specific instructions or dimensions

Crown

term used when the narrow portion of the board is higher or lower than the two ends

Anchors

bolts used to attach objects or structures to concrete

Strong back

beam or girder which provides support for an existing structure

Trimmers

framed structure which provides support for an opening like a door or window

Collar ties

horizontal member between two rafters

Splice plate

plate which is laid over a joint in order to provide support and stiffness for the two pieces being joined

Gable roof

roof which slopes downwards into tow parts from a central ridge

Hip roof

roof with sloping ends and sides

Subfloor

rough floor which is laid as a base for a finished floor

Soffit Framing

underside of a part of a building

Studs

upright posts in the framework of the wall

Partition

wall which is used to separate rooms or to divide a room