Wall Framing Terminology Quiz

Study Notes

Wall Framing Components

Jack Stud: Shortened stud that supports a header above a wall opening, also termed a trimmer stud.
Header: A thick framing member designed to bear the load around a rough opening, essential for stability.
King Stud: Full-length stud positioned on either side of a rough opening, located adjacent to the jack stud.
Bottom Plate: The bottom horizontal framing member of a wall, providing structural support.
Top Plate: A horizontal structural member situated atop the studs, reinforcing wall integrity.
Double Top Plate: An additional horizontal member atop the top plate, used to join multiple walls together.
Cripple Stud: Short studs installed between a header and a top plate or between a window sill and a bottom plate, providing support without extending the full height.
O.C (On Center): A critical measurement indicating spacing between studs, commonly refers to 16 inches for common studs.
2X4 Stud: Standard size used primarily for interior wall framing.
2X6 Stud: Gaining popularity for exterior wall framing due to its increased insulation capacity.
Wall Sheathing: Panels, typically 4'X8' in size, applied to the exterior of framed walls, commonly made from plywood or OSB.
Rough Opening (R.O): The framed space within a wall designated for the installation of doors or windows.
Corner Post: Stud assembly located at the ends of walls, providing support at corners.
Intersecting Post: Stud assembly in the center of a wall where two walls meet, ensuring structural support in intersections.
Window Sill: The horizontal member positioned beneath a window opening, often supported by a cripple stud.
Common Stud: A full-length 2x4 stud placed at 16-inch intervals O.C for structural framing.