JC's Corner

What's New in 2008
Smart Framing

Think about smarter framing. What about all those extra wall studs. Do you really need a stud beside or near a window jack when the wall partition is only 8 inches away? Do you need those extra cripple jacks under the window opening 2 inches from the jack? On any non-bearing partition, the studs can be omitted when the remaining space is less than 15 inches, 22 inches in some cases.  Smart framing also allows for more insulation to be placed in an exterior wall, making it more energy efficient.  Layout for the extra studs needed for plumbing walls and lath catchers when a standard fiberglass tub/shower unit is to be installed.  Place an extra stud at 34" from the inside corner to catch the edge of the fiberglass, and leave a 14" space for the valves on 16" center from the back wall of the tub.
Let's start using smart framing.
Save materials.
Save time.
Save fasteners.
Save energy.
Save money.