Pros and Cons of 3 Types of Wall Framing

Wall framing is the type of construction done when first building walls of a building or house. For your house's construction, this needs to be done in order to ensure the walls are weight-bearing and can support the roof and various other elements. For wall framing, there are different types used, with stick framing, balloon framing, and timber framing being among the most common. Here are some pros and cons of each so you can decide which one is best for your new home.

Stick Framing

The first type of framing is called stick framing, also known as platform framing. Stick framing is also done with some roofing structures, where it is made from sticks of wood in order to support the roof. With a wall frame, it is done in a similar way, where sticks are attached to each other for each wall, with openings left for windows and doorways. Here are the pros and cons of stick framing for walls.

Pros:

• It is a simple and easy technique that most framers know how to do
• Most framing contractors already have the tools and equipment needed
• Stick framing is something many house inspectors are familiar with
• Architects often use stick framing and are familiar with it

Cons:

• The wood used for stick framing is heavy
• Depending on the type of housing style and structure, it might end up costing more and taking more time
• Electrical and plumbing systems need to be installed through the stick structure, which can be

Balloon Framing

The next type of framing available for walls is called balloon framing. This method of framing walls uses long studs made of wood that go through the top of the house in order to hold the walls in place. The wooden stud goes through the entire house's length.

Pros:

• Less risk of shrinkage
• With less shrinkage, the frame doesn't cause the house to buckle in certain situations
• The balloon framing can provide better load-bearing capabilities

Cons:

• There are some dangers with having exposed wooden studs
• It is more expensive to construct
• The materials are not always available

Timber Framing

There is also the method of timber framing, sometimes known as post and beam framing. This uses wood lumber that is cut by hand and connected to joints and pegs. The cutting is usually done by an axe, offering a unique look. Consider some of these pros and cons for timber framing.

Pros:

• The frames are exposed, offering an interesting look inside the home
• The raw cuts by an axe leave behind a rustic appearance
• It is easy to create a vaulted ceiling with this framing method

Cons:

• Construction takes more time and cost
• There is a higher risk of the wood rotting since it is exposed

Talk to your contractor or wall frame manufacturer about these types of framing for your home to decide which one you want to go with.

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