Like the bee, we should make our industry our amusement.
– Oliver Goldsmith, novelist and playwright, 1730 – 1774
With your floor frame and subfloor in place, you’ve now got a flat, clean surface that’s perfect for building walls. Stud frame wall construction is still the most popular approach for conventional residential projects in many parts of the world, and it makes sense for cabins, too. Although you can save money framing with 2x4s, I recommend 2x6s for walls, even if you won’t be insulating. The extra 1 1/2” of frame thickness is stronger, looks better and offers greater storage opportunities for small items sitting on wall blocking if you opt to go without interior wall boards or insulation. Frame with 2x4s if you like, but realize you’re giving up a fair amount of practicality for minimal costs savings. Either way, the next video gives you a tour of different wall frame parts and what they’re called. Be sure to watch if jargon like studs, plates, lintels and top plates is new to you.
In This Section...
Wall Framing Basics
HOW TO FRAME THE WALLS
The plans show the main parts of stud frame walls and how they fit together. These include studs, plates, and lintels.
Nailing Your Wall Together
NAILING WALLS TOGETHER
With your first wall framed and lying on the deck, you need to gather another pair of eager hands (two extra pairs if they’re not particularly strong) and get ready to tilt the wall up and into position.
Building the Timber Porch Frame
WORKING WITH PORCH POSTS & BEAMS
The plans show how 6×6 posts and beams create a structure to support the roof as it extends out over the porch.