5 proven ways to optimize framing

5. Single Top Plate/In-Line Framing

Single top plate construction, which in a single step eliminates hundreds of lineal feet of lumber per home to further reduce thermal bridging and increase cavity insulation, requires vertical framing alignment, in which framing members are “stacked” to create a direct load path (Figure 8). This approach requires a single — or master — framing layout for all members at all framing levels.

FIGURE 8

When designing a master framing layout, start with the layout of the roof framing members, which is generally dictated by roof design and geometry, followed by the layout of the framing members below. Although this will be a change in approach for framing carpenters who are accustomed to working up from the foundation, addressing the roof first will simplify load calculation for the designer and maximize material efficiency.

The type of roof design will impact the master framing layout. For example, hip roof design will usually require a different starting point for framing member layout than gable roof design. In hip roof construction, common rafters and hip jack rafters typically layout from the nominal center line intersection of the hip(s) with the ridge. In gable roof construction, common rafter layout typically commences from one of the end walls of the structure.

Framing member layout will also be dictated by the type of roof construction. Truss roofs will often require a different framing member layout than framed roofs. When trusses are specified, the trusses should be stacked directly above the wall studs. There is no member offset, hence the truss and wall stud layout will be the same.

For more information on these and other advanced framing techniques, download APA’s Advanced Framing Construction Guide at www.apawood.org and see other resources at APA’s www.performancewalls.org.

Bob Clark is a senior engineered wood specialist for APA.