x
Features of
the Textbook
The instructional design of this textbook includes
student-focused learning tools to help you suc-
ceed. This visual guide highlights these features.
Chapter Opening Materials
Each chapter opener contains a list of learn-
ing objectives and a list of technical terms. The
Objectives clearly identify the knowledge and
skills to be gained when the chapter is com-
pleted. Technical Terms list the key words to be
learned in the chapter.
Additional Features
Additional features are used throughout the
body of each chapter to further learning and
knowledge. Safety Notes alert you to potentially
dangerous materials and practices. Code Notes
point out specific items from typical building
codes. Procedures are highlighted throughout
the textbook to provide clear instructions for
hands-on service activities. Pro Tips provide
advice and guidance that is especially applica-
ble for on-the-job situations. Green Notes high-
light key items related to sustainability, energy
efficiency, and environmental issues.
C H A P T E R
7
Plans, Specifications,
and Codes
OBJECTIVES
After studying this chapter, you will be able to:
■ Identify the elements commonly included in a set of house plans.
■ Demonstrate the use of scale in architectural drawings.
■ Identify architectural symbols.
■ Explain the use of building specifications.
■ Describe the application of building codes, standards, and permits.
■ List the items required by building officials to obtain a building permit.
TECHNICAL TERMS
architectural drawing
authority having jurisdiction
(AHJ)
building code
building permit
computer-aided drafting
and design (CADD)
CADD-CAM
computer-aided
manufacturing (CAM)
detail drawing
dimensions
drawn to scale
electrical plan
elevation
floor plan
footprint
foundation plan
framing plan
list of materials
model code
pictorial sketch
plot plan
print
schedule
section drawing
set of plans
setback
specifications
stock plan
symbol
truss plan
A
good plan and well-defined contract are impor-
tant in building construction. Expectations should
be specified in the contract in no uncertain terms.
For the project to go as seamlessly as possible and to avoid
possible future litigation, both sides should know exactly
what is expected of the other.
Every carpenter must know how to read and under-
stand architectural drawings (plans) and correctly in-
terpret the information found in written specifications.
Simply put, the plans tell you how to build and the
specifications tell you what materials must be used. See
Figure 7-1. It has been said that “blueprints are the lan-
guage of the construction industry.” Carpenters must
be fluent in this language.R
Brocreative/Shutterstock.com
Figure 7-1. Carpenters must frequently study plans as they
construct a building.
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
286 Section 2 Foundations and Framing
Safety Note
When framing a roof, use extra care to prevent a fall. Fall
protection devices must be used. Erect solid scaffolding
wherever it is helpful. Avoid working directly above
another person.
Code Note
The connection between the top plate and the rafter
provides resistance to uplift. Uplift can occur when
strong winds push against the side of a building and
roof. In some cases, additional tie-connections may be
needed based on the rafter spacing, roof span, and
design wind speed. In the United States, these additional
tie-down connections are most commonly needed along
the gulf coast and Atlantic coast regions. Be sure to
check the requirements in your local building code.
P R O C E D U R E
Laying Out a Gable End Frame
1. Using a level and straightedge, mark the top plate to
show the location of a stud directly below the ridge,
if possible. Often, a ventilator is located in the center
of the end frame. If this is the case, mark a distance
1/2 of the ventilator width to either side of the plumb
line. This mark is the location of the first stud.
2. Position the stud on the top plate and use a level to
recheck for plumb. Mark the location of the rafter
on the side of the stud.
3. Lay out the next stud, plumb it, and mark the rafter
location on the stud’s side. The difference between the
two stud lengths is the common difference, .
4. Using the common difference, continue marking,
cutting, and placing studs until the edge of the
frame is reached. If the rafters on both sides have
the same rise and run, the end frame should be
symmetrical (both sides identical).
P O C E D U R E
Finding the Common Difference
with the Framing Square
The common difference can also be obtained using the
framing square. See .
1. Set the square on a stud. Align the unit run on the
blade with the edge of the stud. Then align the unit
rise on the tongue to the same edge. (This is the
same as the step method used in determining the
length of a rafter.)
2. Mark a line on the stud along the outside edge of
the blade.
3. Slide the square away from you. Keep the outer edge
of the blade on this line. Watch the inch marks on
the blade. Stop when the inch number for the stud
spacing (16uni2033 or 24uni2033) aligns with the edge of the stud.
4. Read the inch mark on the tongue of the square that
aligns with the edge of the stud. This is the common
difference.
12.10 Gable End Frame
The end frames of a gable should be assembled after the
rafters and ridge have been installed. The end frame
consists of vertical studs running from the top plate of
the bearing walls to the end rafters. The framing of the
gable end is most easily done while it lies flat over the
ceiling joists. Overhang, brick racks, frieze trim, lou-
vers, housewrap, and siding can all be installed at this
time. After it is erected, the end gable should be well
braced before installing the ridge board and rafters.
The following procedure can be used to determine the
length and location of studs.
Roof designs often include an extended rake
(gable overhang). Typical framing is illustrated in
.It requires the gable end frame be con-
structed before the roof frame is completed.
Notched top
Common
difference
in length
Vent opening
Unit
rise
Cutting
angle
12
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
Lay out studs forr a gable as shown.. changee in lenggth from one stud to another is the common difference.
Cop right rt-Willcox C .,
Willcox
eend TThee n
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 11 Wall and Ceiling Framing 249
In conventional framing, extra studs are included
around rough openings, as shown in the assembly in
Figure 11-10. The studs and trimmers support the
header and provide a nailing surface for window and
door casing.
11.1.4 Alternate Header Construction
In large window openings, the size of the header may
reduce the length of the upper cripple studs to a point
where they cannot be easily assembled. In this case,
the cripple studs can be replaced with flat blocking.
Another solution is to increase the header size to com-
pletely fill the space to the plate. Some builders fol-
low this practice and extend it to include all openings,
regardless of the span. The cost of labor required to cut
and fit the cripple studs is usually greater than the cost
of the larger headers. A disadvantage of such construc-
tion is extra shrinkage. Shrinkage may cause cracks
above doors and windows unless special precautions
are taken when applying the interior wall finish.
Green Note
As described in the previous paragraph, headers are
often sized to fill the space above the rough opening to
the wall plate. Without any added insulation, this creates
a tremendous thermal bridge. To cut heat loss and build
greener headers, size headers properly and add a layer
of rigid foam insulation between a built-up header’s
layers or to the exterior face.
11.2 Plate Layout
Sole plates and top plates are the same size as the studs,
typically 2×4 or 2×6. Use only straight stock for plates.
Select two pieces of equal length and lay them side by
side along the location of the outside wall. The length is
determined by what can be easily lifted off of the floor
and into a vertical position after it is assembled. Remem-
ber that the weight may include all of the framing for
rough openings, bracing, and sheathing. If wall jacks or
a forklift are available for lifting, sections can be made
larger. Where they must be lifted by hand, attach sheath-
ing after the wall is up. Always locate joints over a stud.
The centerlines of rough openings are marked first.
Pro Tip
Carefully check over your rough opening layouts for
errors. Do the math before cutting and framing.
11.2.1 Laying Out the Second
Exterior Stud Wall
Laying out the second exterior wall follows the
same procedure as the first outside wall, with one
exception. If sheet material is used for rough sid-
ing, then the location of the first stud from the
corner post must allow for the edge of the panel to
be flush with the outside edge of the siding. If the
siding is 3/4″ thick and the studs are 16″ OC, lay
out the first stud 15 1/4″ from the end of the plate.
Double top plate
Regular
studs Trimmer stud
Header
Rough sill
Cripple
studs
Header
Trimmer
stud
Sole plate
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
Figure 11-10. Framing door and window openings. Notice how the wide header above the window eliminates cripple studs
between the header and the top plate.
Features of
the Textbook
The instructional design of this textbook includes
student-focused learning tools to help you suc-
ceed. This visual guide highlights these features.
Chapter Opening Materials
Each chapter opener contains a list of learn-
ing objectives and a list of technical terms. The
Objectives clearly identify the knowledge and
skills to be gained when the chapter is com-
pleted. Technical Terms list the key words to be
learned in the chapter.
Additional Features
Additional features are used throughout the
body of each chapter to further learning and
knowledge. Safety Notes alert you to potentially
dangerous materials and practices. Code Notes
point out specific items from typical building
codes. Procedures are highlighted throughout
the textbook to provide clear instructions for
hands-on service activities. Pro Tips provide
advice and guidance that is especially applica-
ble for on-the-job situations. Green Notes high-
light key items related to sustainability, energy
efficiency, and environmental issues.
C H A P T E R
7
Plans, Specifications,
and Codes
OBJECTIVES
After studying this chapter, you will be able to:
■ Identify the elements commonly included in a set of house plans.
■ Demonstrate the use of scale in architectural drawings.
■ Identify architectural symbols.
■ Explain the use of building specifications.
■ Describe the application of building codes, standards, and permits.
■ List the items required by building officials to obtain a building permit.
TECHNICAL TERMS
architectural drawing
authority having jurisdiction
(AHJ)
building code
building permit
computer-aided drafting
and design (CADD)
CADD-CAM
computer-aided
manufacturing (CAM)
detail drawing
dimensions
drawn to scale
electrical plan
elevation
floor plan
footprint
foundation plan
framing plan
list of materials
model code
pictorial sketch
plot plan
schedule
section drawing
set of plans
setback
specifications
stock plan
symbol
truss plan
A
good plan and well-defined contract are impor-
tant in building construction. Expectations should
be specified in the contract in no uncertain terms.
For the project to go as seamlessly as possible and to avoid
possible future litigation, both sides should know exactly
what is expected of the other.
Every carpenter must know how to read and under-
stand architectural drawings (plans) and correctly in-
terpret the information found in written specifications.
Simply put, the plans tell you how to build and the
specifications tell you what materials must be used. See
Figure 7-1. It has been said that “blueprints are the lan-
guage of the construction industry.” Carpenters must
be fluent in this language.R
Brocreative/Shutterstock.com
Figure 7-1. Carpenters must frequently study plans as they
construct a building.
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
286 Section 2 Foundations and Framing
Safety Note
When framing a roof, use extra care to prevent a fall. Fall
protection devices must be used. Erect solid scaffolding
wherever it is helpful. Avoid working directly above
another person.
Code Note
The connection between the top plate and the rafter
provides resistance to uplift. Uplift can occur when
strong winds push against the side of a building and
roof. In some cases, additional tie-connections may be
needed based on the rafter spacing, roof span, and
design wind speed. In the United States, these additional
tie-down connections are most commonly needed along
the gulf coast and Atlantic coast regions. Be sure to
check the requirements in your local building code.
P R O C E D U R E
Laying Out a Gable End Frame
1. Using a level and straightedge, mark the top plate to
show the location of a stud directly below the ridge,
if possible. Often, a ventilator is located in the center
of the end frame. If this is the case, mark a distance
1/2 of the ventilator width to either side of the plumb
line. This mark is the location of the first stud.
2. Position the stud on the top plate and use a level to
recheck for plumb. Mark the location of the rafter
on the side of the stud.
3. Lay out the next stud, plumb it, and mark the rafter
location on the stud’s side. The difference between the
two stud lengths is the common difference, .
4. Using the common difference, continue marking,
cutting, and placing studs until the edge of the
frame is reached. If the rafters on both sides have
the same rise and run, the end frame should be
symmetrical (both sides identical).
P O C E D U R E
Finding the Common Difference
with the Framing Square
The common difference can also be obtained using the
framing square. See .
1. Set the square on a stud. Align the unit run on the
blade with the edge of the stud. Then align the unit
rise on the tongue to the same edge. (This is the
same as the step method used in determining the
length of a rafter.)
2. Mark a line on the stud along the outside edge of
the blade.
3. Slide the square away from you. Keep the outer edge
of the blade on this line. Watch the inch marks on
the blade. Stop when the inch number for the stud
spacing (16uni2033 or 24uni2033) aligns with the edge of the stud.
4. Read the inch mark on the tongue of the square that
aligns with the edge of the stud. This is the common
difference.
12.10 Gable End Frame
The end frames of a gable should be assembled after the
rafters and ridge have been installed. The end frame
consists of vertical studs running from the top plate of
the bearing walls to the end rafters. The framing of the
gable end is most easily done while it lies flat over the
ceiling joists. Overhang, brick racks, frieze trim, lou-
vers, housewrap, and siding can all be installed at this
time. After it is erected, the end gable should be well
braced before installing the ridge board and rafters.
The following procedure can be used to determine the
length and location of studs.
Roof designs often include an extended rake
(gable overhang). Typical framing is illustrated in
.It requires the gable end frame be con-
structed before the roof frame is completed.
Notched top
Common
difference
in length
Vent opening
Unit
rise
Cutting
angle
12
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
Lay out studs forr a gable as shown.. changee in lenggth from one stud to another is the common difference.
Cop right rt-Willcox C .,
Willcox
eend TThee n
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 11 Wall and Ceiling Framing 249
In conventional framing, extra studs are included
around rough openings, as shown in the assembly in
Figure 11-10. The studs and trimmers support the
header and provide a nailing surface for window and
door casing.
11.1.4 Alternate Header Construction
In large window openings, the size of the header may
reduce the length of the upper cripple studs to a point
where they cannot be easily assembled. In this case,
the cripple studs can be replaced with flat blocking.
Another solution is to increase the header size to com-
pletely fill the space to the plate. Some builders fol-
low this practice and extend it to include all openings,
regardless of the span. The cost of labor required to cut
and fit the cripple studs is usually greater than the cost
of the larger headers. A disadvantage of such construc-
tion is extra shrinkage. Shrinkage may cause cracks
above doors and windows unless special precautions
are taken when applying the interior wall finish.
Green Note
As described in the previous paragraph, headers are
often sized to fill the space above the rough opening to
the wall plate. Without any added insulation, this creates
a tremendous thermal bridge. To cut heat loss and build
greener headers, size headers properly and add a layer
of rigid foam insulation between a built-up header’s
layers or to the exterior face.
11.2 Plate Layout
Sole plates and top plates are the same size as the studs,
typically 2×4 or 2×6. Use only straight stock for plates.
Select two pieces of equal length and lay them side by
side along the location of the outside wall. The length is
determined by what can be easily lifted off of the floor
and into a vertical position after it is assembled. Remem-
ber that the weight may include all of the framing for
rough openings, bracing, and sheathing. If wall jacks or
a forklift are available for lifting, sections can be made
larger. Where they must be lifted by hand, attach sheath-
ing after the wall is up. Always locate joints over a stud.
The centerlines of rough openings are marked first.
Pro Tip
Carefully check over your rough opening layouts for
errors. Do the math before cutting and framing.
11.2.1 Laying Out the Second
Exterior Stud Wall
Laying out the second exterior wall follows the
same procedure as the first outside wall, with one
exception. If sheet material is used for rough sid-
ing, then the location of the first stud from the
corner post must allow for the edge of the panel to
be flush with the outside edge of the siding. If the
siding is 3/4″ thick and the studs are 16″ OC, lay
out the first stud 15 1/4″ from the end of the plate.
Double top plate
Regular
studs Trimmer stud
Header
Rough sill
Cripple
studs
Header
Trimmer
stud
Sole plate
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
Figure 11-10. Framing door and window openings. Notice how the wide header above the window eliminates cripple studs
between the header and the top plate.