Platform Framing

Platform framing is the traditional framing method where each floor of a pole barn or conventional building is framed independently by nailing the horizontal framing member to the top of the wall studs.

Pole framing actually uses the pole foundation to support the structure.

Most contractors will be more familiar with platform framing and the additional benefits are that it is a simpler process that uses less wood than pole framing.

Platform Framing Terms

Sole Plate: Bottom horizontal framing member of the wall.

Header: Beam placed perpendicular to wall studs above windows and door to carry structural loads.

Jack Stud: Fits under each end of the header & transfers load to bottom plate.

King Stud: Nailed to the jack stud and supports assembly between plates.

Rough Sill: Bottom of window opening.

Rim joist: Vertical board that caps the ends of the floor joists boxing in sub flooring.

Floor joist: Horizontal framing member that supports the floor load.

Ridge board: Upper most horizontal framing member on roof that attaches tops of rafters.

Rafter: Series of beams that form the slope of a pitched roof (from ridge to eave).

Eave: The overhanging edge of a roof.

Ridge: Beam laid along the edge where two sloping sides meet at the top (upper end of rafters).

Squaring Things Up

Squaring up Roof Rafters

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