8 Structural Carpentry Flashcards
(208 cards)
1
Q
What is the main building material discussed in this chapter?
A
Wood
2
Q
What were the first wood houses fashioned from?
A
Massive ax-hewn timbers
3
Q
How were the early wood houses joined without nails?
A
Fitted tightly and fastened with whittled wooden pegs
4
Q
What technology was used in early 19th-century wood construction?
A
Plentiful iron nails and circular-sawn lumber
5
Q
What is balloon framing?
A
The earliest method of milled lumber houses with long studs running the full height of the wall
6
Q
What framing method has been most widely used since the beginning of the 20th century?
A
Platform framing (western framing)
7
Q
What is the purpose of restraining blocks in wall assembly?
A
To prevent the sole plate from sliding off the deck
8
Q
What types of loads must a house withstand?
A
- Dead load
- Live load
- Shear loads
9
Q
What are point loads and spread loads?
A
- Point loads: Concentrated weights requiring structural reinforcement
- Spread loads: Roof weight pushing outward on walls
10
Q
What is the function of headers (or lintels)?
A
Bearing beams that carry loads across openings in walls
11
Q
What is a partition in construction?
A
Any interior dividing wall, bearing or not
12
Q
What should you determine before demolishing or framing walls?
A
What is a bearing wall and what is not
13
Q
What are the common carpentry tasks in renovation?
A
Framing walls
14
Q
What are wood-frame walls composed of?
A
Vertical studs nailed to horizontal top plates and sole plates
15
Q
What is the advantage of using 2x6 walls over 2x4 walls?
A
Allow thicker insulation and make routing pipes easier
16
Q
What does a girder do in a house structure?
A
Runs the length of the house and supports floor joists
17
Q
What are bearing walls?
A
Walls that support weight from above
18
Q
What is a cripple wall?
A
Short walls from the top of a foundation to the bottom of the first-floor joists
19
Q
What should be done if you cut into a bearing wall?
A
Add a header to prevent sagging of joists above
20
Q
What is the purpose of safety equipment on a job site?
A
To protect workers from injuries
21
Q
What is the recommended nail size for nailing plywood panels 1/2 in. thick or less?
A
6d common nails
22
Q
What is the consequence of overdriving nails?
A
Can affect panel strength if more than 20% of nail heads are buried too deep
23
Q
What is a recommended nailing schedule?
A
- Joist to sill or girder (toenail): 3-8d
- Ledger strip: 3-16d at each joist or rafter
- Sole plate to joist or blocking (face-nail): 16d at 16 in. o.c.
24
Q
What is the correct way to start a nail?
A
Start with a tap using a hammer
25
What is the function of a cat's paw?
To dig out buried nail heads
26
What should you do if you see twisted studs?
Return them to the lumberyard for credit
27
What should you do with bowed lumber?
Draw an arrow on the face to indicate the direction of the bow and use them accordingly
28
What is the recommended action if you plan to remove walls?
Hire a structural engineer to review your plans
29
True or False: Nonbearing walls are intended to bear loads.
False
30
What is the nail size used for top or sole plate to stud connections?
2-16d
31
What nail size is used to toenail a stud to a sole plate?
3-8d or 2-16d
32
What is the recommended nail size for sole plate to joists or blocking?
3-16d at 16 in. o.c.
33
What is the recommended nail size for doubled studs?
10d at 24 in. o.c.
34
What nail size is used for lap-spliced doubled top plates?
8-16d
35
How should continuous headers be nailed?
16d at 16 in. o.c. along each edge
36
What nail size is used for toenailing a rim joist to a top plate?
8d at 6 in. o.c.
37
What is the nail size for toenailing ceiling joists to a plate?
3-8d
38
What nail size is used to toenail a continuous header to a stud?
4-8d
39
What nail size is recommended for ceiling joists that lap over partitions?
3-10d
40
What is the nail size for ceiling joists not attached to parallel rafters?
3-10d
41
What nail size is used for toenailing rafters to plates?
2-16d
42
What nail size is used for built-up corner studs?
10d at 24 in. o.c.
43
What is the nailing requirement for built-up girders and beams?
10d at 32 in. o.c. at top and bottom and staggered; two nails at ends and each splice
44
What is the purpose of the Speed Square in wall framing?
To mark stud locations on a pressure-treated mudsill and a top plate
45
What does an 'X' mark indicate on a pressure-treated mudsill?
Regular studs 16 in. on center
46
What does a 'J' mark indicate on a pressure-treated mudsill?
Jack studs
47
What does a 'K' mark indicate on a pressure-treated mudsill?
King studs
48
What does a 'C' mark indicate on a pressure-treated mudsill?
Cripple studs
49
What is the recommended method for framing a wall?
Construct it on a flat surface and tilt it up into place
50
What is the height of a standard wall when using 92 1/2 in. studs?
97 in.
51
What is the rough opening height for a 6-ft. 8-in. door?
821/2 in.
52
What must be placed over every opening in a bearing wall?
A header
53
What is the common practice for headers in 2x4 walls?
Sandwiching a piece of 1/2-in. CDX plywood between two pieces of 2x lumber
54
What is the nominal depth of a 4x header in inches?
Equals the span in feet of the opening
55
What is a common rule of thumb for sizing headers in single-story buildings?
The nominal depth of a header equals the span in feet of the opening
56
What is the recommended spacing for studs on center?
16 in. on center
57
What is the ideal placement for studs when partitions run perpendicular to joists?
Center the studs over the joists
58
What is the benefit of oversizing headers?
Provides aesthetic uniformity and structural integrity
59
What type of insulation is commonly added to header assemblies?
Rigid foam insulation, typically expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS)
60
What should be done with nails set into redwood or pressure-treated plates?
They must be galvanized
61
What is the purpose of cripple studs in header assemblies?
To support the doubled top plate
62
What should be used to assemble a wall after marking the top and bottom plates?
Insert the studs on edge between the plates
63
What is the recommended nailing method for studs to the sole plate?
End-nail studs using two 16d common nails at each end
64
What is the significance of flush edges between studs and plates?
Ensures the resultant wall plane is flat
65
What should be done to jack studs when framing a rough opening?
Cut jack studs slightly long and face-nail them to the king studs
66
What is the advantage of using pneumatic nailers in framing?
They nail quickly, preventing studs from drifting off stud marks
67
What is the advantage of using pneumatic nailers over hand-nailing?
Pneumatic nailers nail quickly, preventing studs from drifting off stud marks.
68
What is the purpose of half-cutting the sole plate?
It allows for easier raising of the wall by cutting halfway through the plate before nailing it to studs.
69
What should workers do to safely raise a wall?
Clear the deck of tools, use diagonal braces, and nail 2x stops to prevent the bottom plate from sliding.
70
How should you nail the bottom of a diagonal brace when raising a wall?
Nail the top of a diagonal brace 1 ft. below the top plate with a single 16d nail.
71
What are the steps to framing a rough opening for a window?
* Level and toenail the sill to jack studs
* Nail cripple studs between the underside of the sill and the sole plate.
72
True or False: Doubled sill plates are common in the eastern United States.
False.
73
What should be done after raising a wall to ensure it is plumb?
Use a sledgehammer to adjust the sole plate and check with a level.
74
What is the recommended method for securing the top of a wall?
Nail the top plate to ceiling joists or tie together intersecting walls with overlapping top plates.
75
What is the purpose of using drywall clips?
They allow drywall panels to float slightly to reduce cracking.
76
Fill in the blank: Kneewalls are short partitions that are about ______ high.
knee
77
What framing method is suggested for renovation when space is limited?
Building a wall in place, piece by piece.
78
What does Lstiburek suggest to save wood and improve energy efficiency?
* Spacing rafters, 2x6 studs, and joists 24 in. o.c.
* Aligning framing members to transmit loads straight down.
79
What is the issue with three-stud corners in framing?
They reduce insulation effectiveness and allow cold air to circulate.
80
What is the correct way to establish kneewalls?
* Position the sole plate
* Plumb up to the rafters
* Copy the angle with an adjustable bevel.
81
What should be done before demolishing a wall?
Determine if it’s a bearing wall and shut off electrical power.
82
What is the main goal of demolition preparation?
Minimize stress caused by disruption, noise, and dirt.
83
What should you do if you must live in a house during renovation?
Seal off one room for storage and minimize exposure to the construction area.
84
What type of nails should be used to toenail studs?
Three 10d nails or four 8d nails angled roughly 60° from horizontal.
85
How should the top plate be nailed when framing beneath slopes?
Nail it to the underside of the sloping rafter or stair stringer.
86
What is a better framing method suggested for energy efficiency?
* Single top plate
* No header in nonbearing walls
* Rigid-foam sheathing.
87
What should you create in your home during renovation to minimize stress?
A clean zone
## Footnote
A clean zone is usually a bedroom where no work is done, isolated from the renovation area.
88
How can you isolate the clean zone from the renovation area?
By covering the doorway with sheet plastic or installing temporary plastic walls
## Footnote
Using systems like the ZipWall® System can also help.
89
What should you do if an inspection finds signs of insect infestation before moving in?
Have a pest-control professional treat the condition
## Footnote
This should be done before the renovation starts.
90
What is a critical safety measure to take before starting demolition work?
Notify gas, water, and electric companies
## Footnote
Utility representatives can inform you about safe temporary hookups.
91
What items should be included in a safety kit for demolition?
Voltage tester, hard hat, goggles, respirator mask, sturdy work gloves, droplight, and thick-soled shoes
## Footnote
Ensure your first-aid kit is complete and your tetanus shot is up to date.
92
What type of saw is considered a workhorse for demolition?
Reciprocating saws with demolition blades
## Footnote
Demo blades can cut through nails without shattering.
93
What is the purpose of using a HEPA vacuum during demolition?
To capture dust instead of recirculating it
## Footnote
Ordinary shop vacs do not have this capability.
94
Before cutting into surfaces, what should be done regarding electrical safety?
Shut off electrical, water, and gas service to that area
## Footnote
Always use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off.
95
What should you do if you discover hidden wires while demolishing?
Stop, turn off all power, and carefully snip the cable in two
## Footnote
Ensure both ends are tested before handling.
96
What is a method to visually isolate the work area during renovation?
Erect temporary walls using 2x2s covered with plastic
## Footnote
This provides a safety and visual barrier for both workers and homeowners.
97
How should you manage debris during demolition?
Organize debris by maximizing Dumpster loads and recycling materials
## Footnote
Place dense materials at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
98
What is an effective way to protect finish floors during demolition?
Cover them completely with 6-mil plastic and Ram Board
## Footnote
Overlapping plastic seams by 6 inches and securing them with duct tape is important.
99
What tool is recommended for removing wood trim without damage?
A putty knife to break the paint seal
## Footnote
This should be followed by gently tapping a small flat bar behind the trim.
100
What should you do with salvaged trim pieces before storing them?
Photograph woodwork assemblies and number the back of each piece
## Footnote
This helps ensure correct reinstallation.
101
True or False: It is safe to demo alone.
False
## Footnote
Demolition work is inherently dangerous and unpredictable.
102
Fill in the blank: Always test a voltage tester first on an outlet you know is _______.
hot
## Footnote
This ensures the tester is working correctly.
103
What should be done at the end of each day during demolition?
Go to the clean zone and relax
## Footnote
This helps to manage stress during the renovation process.
104
What tool is recommended for breaking the paint seal on trim?
A utility knife
## Footnote
A utility knife is preferred over a sharp blade as it can slice trim.
105
What should you do to the back of each trim piece as you remove it?
Use a permanent marker to number them
## Footnote
This helps in reinstalling the trim correctly.
106
What is a pro tip for storing salvaged trim?
Remove finish nails by pulling them through the back
## Footnote
This avoids splintering the face of the trim.
107
What is a recommended method for cutting drywall or plaster to minimize mess?
Use a reciprocating saw with a demo blade to cut out 2-ft. by 2-ft. sections
## Footnote
This reduces dust and creates a compact load.
108
What tool can be used to dislodge plaster from the attic space?
A hand sledge or a framing hammer
## Footnote
Place planks across attic joists for safety.
109
When working on ceilings, what safety equipment is recommended?
Hard hats
## Footnote
This is essential when working under exposed ceiling joists.
110
What should be done if the plaster is sound but sagging?
Reattach it with washered screws or cover with 1⁄4-in. drywall
## Footnote
This helps maintain the integrity of the ceiling.
111
What is the recommended approach to gutting walls?
Start at the top and work down, periodically carting out debris
## Footnote
This prevents restricting your movements.
112
What should be done before removing bearing walls?
Shore up the joists or other loads they support
## Footnote
This ensures structural safety.
113
What is the preferred method for cutting through studs?
Use a reciprocating saw to cut through the middle of each stud
## Footnote
Its thin blade is less likely to bind.
114
If you need to pull up wood floorboards, where is a good spot to start?
An inconspicuous spot along the base of an existing wall
## Footnote
This minimizes visible damage.
115
What should be done if floorboards are face-nailed?
You may need to destroy the first row of boards
## Footnote
Alternatively, break off the tongue on tongue-and-groove flooring.
116
What is a good place to fit a wrecking bar when gutting wall surfaces?
The space between studs
## Footnote
This allows for easier prying of the first row of floorboards.
117
What is the purpose of adding blocking in renovations?
To bolster existing joists or studs, provide a nailing surface for new framing, or back drywall/plaster lath
## Footnote
Blocking is essential when gutting finish surfaces, especially in bathrooms for grab bars and other fixtures.
118
How do you attach the top plate of a new partition when joists run perpendicular to it?
Cut back finish surfaces, expose ceiling joists, snap chalklines, and cut a 4-in. wide slot for the top plate
## Footnote
Use two 16d nails at each point the plate crosses a joist.
119
What is bridging in joist reinforcement?
Metal or 1x4 wood pieces installed diagonally between joists to brace them
## Footnote
Bridging is easier to retrofit than solid blocking and interferes less with pipes and wires.
120
What is the recommended spacing for blocking when adding it between joists?
24 inches on center
## Footnote
Blocking should be the same depth as the joists.
121
How should you nail off a new wall abutting an existing one?
Cut into the existing wall to expose the framing and add blocking for metal drywall clips
## Footnote
Start with an exploratory hole to locate the studs.
122
What should you do if studs bow into the room?
Use a power planer to plane down the high spots
## Footnote
Make successive longer passes to feather out the surface.
123
What is the purpose of sistering joists?
To reinforce a weakened joist by nailing a new one to it
## Footnote
The new joist should be supported on both ends.
124
What type of nails are recommended for face-nailing sistered joists?
16d nails staggered every 12 inches
## Footnote
Use a pneumatic palm nailer if there is no room to swing a hammer.
125
What is a flitch plate?
A steel plate used to reinforce undersize beams or joists
## Footnote
It must be predrilled and is not suited for casual installation.
126
True or False: Lightweight steel studs are commonly used in home construction.
False
## Footnote
They are more common in commercial or retail spaces.
127
What is the advantage of using metal studs for leveling ceilings?
They are lightweight, go up quickly, and are sturdy enough to support a new drywall ceiling
## Footnote
This method is easier than using tapered wooden strips.
128
Fill in the blank: Blocking for sole plates should be nailed to the _______ below.
framing
## Footnote
This ensures stability rather than nailing only to flooring or subflooring.
129
What is the maximum acceptable stud variation from flat in bathrooms or kitchens?
1/16 inch
## Footnote
This is crucial for plumbed cabinets to avoid high and low spots.
130
What should be done to assess individual studs for bowing?
Use a 6-ft. or 8-ft. level or straightedge
## Footnote
Mark high and low spots for correction.
131
What is the best practice for nailing off sole plates when a partition runs parallel to joists?
Position it over a joist or add blocking between the joists
## Footnote
Blocking should be the same depth as the joists.
132
What is the procedure called when using metal studs to create a leveled ceiling?
Furring down a ceiling
133
What is the first step in furring down a ceiling with metal studs?
Tear out the existing drywall or plaster ceiling to expose the ceiling joists
134
How much lower should the level line be established from the lowest point of the ceiling joists?
1⁄4 in.
135
How should steel studs be positioned in relation to the leveled strings?
1⁄16 in. above the strings
136
What type of screws should be used to attach steel studs to a joist face?
1-in. screws
137
What protective gear is recommended when working with metal studs?
Eye and hearing protection, rubberized cloth gloves
138
In what residential situations are metal studs specified?
Where fire is a concern, such as in common walls between living spaces and a garage
139
What should you do if you see signs of an insect infestation?
Hire a pest-control professional
140
What is the potential issue with applying pesticides without professional help?
May not destroy all nesting sites or may be applied inappropriately
141
What are the three main types of termites?
* Drywood * Subterranean * Formosan
142
What is a sign of subterranean termite activity?
Distinctive dirt tubes along the surface of foundations
143
How do drywood termites differ in their behavior from subterranean termites?
Drywood termites hollow out chambers and eject fecal pellets; subterranean termites need moisture from the soil
144
What is a common treatment for drywood termites?
Fumigation
145
What do carpenter ants tunnel in, and how do they differ from termites?
They tunnel in wet or rotting wood but do not eat it as food
146
What do powder-post beetle holes resemble?
Tiny BB-gun holes
147
What should you suspect if wood is spongy and contains wispy fibers?
Infestation by a rot fungus
148
What is the recommended action if rot is limited to a few spots?
Suspect leakage and look for other clues above
149
What moisture content is necessary for fungi that rot wood to establish colonies?
Greater than 28%
150
What is a common method to reduce moisture in basements or crawlspaces?
Covering dirt floors with sheet plastic and installing screened vents
151
What is the purpose of sistering joists?
To reinforce existing joists
152
What is the primary purpose of the two-part epoxy repair discussed?
Cosmetic fix
153
What is a common fix for squeaky stairs?
Drilling pilot holes and countersinking screws
154
What should you do if tread movement is causing squeaks?
Nail through the backs of risers into treads
155
What is a common treatment for broken balusters?
Doweled, glued, and filled
156
What should be done to replace a baluster?
Remove return molding, tap out the bottom, and reglue it
157
What supports the steps in a staircase?
Stringers and carriages
158
What is the common method for tightening hollow newel posts?
Using a star nut and threaded rod
159
What tool is recommended to prevent marring when hammering?
Rubber mallet or cushion hammer blows with scrap wood.
160
What is a common method for attaching older hollow newel posts to railings?
Using a star nut centered in the end of a railing.
161
What should be checked if many balusters are loose?
The railing and the newel post may not be firmly attached.
162
How can a shaky newel post be stabilized?
Shim underneath its base or screw the post down with predrilled 3-in. Torx screws.
163
What is the purpose of a threaded rod inside a newel post?
To allow tightening of the upper end concealed by the post cap.
164
What should be done to replace cracked stair treads?
Pry or cut them out, preferably prying if possible.
165
Fill in the blank: Treads crack because they aren’t supported adequately or they weren’t made from good _______.
stock.
166
What is a common sign of structural troubles in a staircase?
Sagging stairs or tilting to one side.
167
What should be done before cutting into a bearing wall?
Install shoring to temporarily support loads.
168
What are two common types of shoring used for first- and second-floor walls?
* Screw jacks with top and bottom plates
* Temporary stud walls built from 2x4s.
169
What is the purpose of using plywood supports beneath each step in a staircase?
To provide adequate support for the middle of a staircase.
170
True or False: The upper ends of carriages in a well-built staircase are typically nailed to the outside of the header.
False.
171
What should be done if a carriage has pulled free from a stud wall?
Reattach it with washered lag screws.
172
What is the recommended action if a center carriage is not notched to receive treads?
Add plywood supports beneath each step.
173
What is shoring?
Temporary support for loads formerly carried by bearing walls.
174
What should be done if you are unsure whether a wall is bearing?
Have a structural engineer inspect the house.
175
What is the purpose of a triangular piece screw to the underside of a carriage during jacking?
To create a flat jacking surface.
176
What material is used for the bottom plate in a temporary stud wall?
2x4.
177
Fill in the blank: After removing finish surfaces, _______ should be installed before cutting into a bearing wall.
shoring.
178
What should be monitored periodically when using temporary shoring?
The plumb of each stud.
179
What is the typical height for rough openings accommodating a standard preframed door?
821⁄2 in.
180
What should be checked before enlarging openings in bearing walls?
Consult with a structural engineer.
181
What is the first step in framing a new door or window opening?
Outline the rough opening by snapping chalklines across the edges of studs.
182
How should old studs within a new opening be removed?
Use a sledge to rap the top plate upward to create a gap.
183
What is the purpose of toenailing the king stud?
To secure it in place on both sides.
184
What tool is used to create a gap above the studs?
A sledge to rap the top plate upward
## Footnote
This method allows for the insertion of a metal-cutting reciprocating-saw blade.
185
What type of nails should be used to toenail the king stud?
Three 10d nails or four 8d nails
## Footnote
This is for both the top and bottom of the king stud.
186
What should be done after cutting the studs and sheathing?
Nail the sheathing to the edges of the new frame
## Footnote
This is part of the process of framing the new opening.
187
How should cripple studs be installed under the sill for a window opening?
Level and install the sill using four 8d nails on both sides for toe-nailing
## Footnote
Additionally, end-nail through the sill into the top of the cripple studs.
188
True or False: Bearing walls run perpendicular to the joists and rafters they support.
True
## Footnote
This is a general characteristic of bearing walls as noted in the text.
189
What method can be used to determine the direction of joists if uncertain?
Use an electronic stud finder or cut a small hole in the ceiling
## Footnote
This is to visually confirm the direction of the joists.
190
What happens to nonbearing walls when heavy furniture is placed above them?
They may become bearing walls
## Footnote
This can cause noticeable floor deflection toward the base of such walls.
191
What is the purpose of shoring when replacing a bearing wall?
To support the area while the bearing wall is removed
## Footnote
Shoring ensures safety and stability during the replacement process.
192
What is a key step before removing a bearing wall?
Cut electrical power to the affected area
## Footnote
Ensuring safety is crucial before starting demolition.
193
What is the weight of a laminated 2x12 beam?
250 lb.
## Footnote
This weight necessitates having enough helpers to raise it safely.
194
How should the height of the posts be determined when installing an exposed beam?
Cut 4x4 posts slightly longer than the height of the opening
## Footnote
This allows for adjustment during installation.
195
What is the significance of notching the beam?
To ensure the top of the beam, top plates, and bottom of the ceiling joists are the same height
## Footnote
Notching is crucial for proper alignment and support.
196
What is the first step in installing a hidden beam?
Erect stud-wall shoring on both sides of the bearing wall to be replaced
## Footnote
This provides stability while the wall is removed.
197
Fill in the blank: A __________ beam allows you to remove a bearing wall and still have a smooth expanse of ceiling.
hidden
## Footnote
This type of beam is installed within the ceiling structure.
198
What should be done to each joist end where it abuts the new beam?
Make a single pass of a power plane across the underside
## Footnote
This ensures joist hangers will be flush to the bottom of the joists and the beam.
199
What is crucial for a successful installation of a hidden beam?
A continuous load path from the beam, through the posts, to the foundation
## Footnote
This ensures all loads are properly supported.
200
What tool should be used to ensure square cuts across joists?
A circular saw
## Footnote
This is because reciprocating-saw blades can wander.
201
What must be checked continuously when raising the beam?
Ensure posts are supported continuously down to girders or foundation
## Footnote
This is essential for proper load transfer.
202
What is a recommended method for raising a beam one end at a time?
Use a chain fall
## Footnote
This allows for easier adjustment and positioning of the beam.
203
What is the purpose of attaching joists to the beam?
To provide structural support and stability to the attic structure
## Footnote
Joists are essential for creating a sturdy framework in construction.
204
What tools are recommended for attaching joists to the beam?
Joist hangers and case-hardened nails
## Footnote
These tools ensure a secure connection between the joists and the beam.
205
What should be done to the underside of each joist before attaching joist hangers?
Use a power planer to cut a shallow slot
## Footnote
This allows the hangers to be flush with the underside of the joists.
206
What technique should be used if there's limited space to swing a hammer?
Use a pneumatic palm nailer
## Footnote
This tool is effective for driving nails in tight spaces.
207
What additional support is needed along the edges of the beam slot?
Center and end-nail 2x4 backing between the joists
## Footnote
This backing is necessary for the finish-surface patches.
208
Where can more details on this complex operation be found?
In John Michael Davis’s article 'Removing a Bearing Wall' in Fine Homebuilding issue #152
## Footnote
This article provides in-depth guidance on the process.
