Construct wall frame and wall
Prepared by
Instructor Tamirat Teshome
Unit Three: Wall frames erection
Contents coverede
Distributing and stacking prefabricated
Wall frames and wall erection
Fixing wall to slab and strip foundation
Bracing, straitening, plumbing and aligning erected Walls
3.1. Distributing and stacking prefabricated
Prefabrication refers to the practice of manufacturing building
components off-site in a controlled environment, and then transporting
them to the construction site for assembly
This method offers several advantages, including increased efficiency,
reduced construction time, improved quality control, and minimized
waste generation
The process typically involves the following steps
• Logistics Planning
• Packaging and Protection: Prefabricated components need to be
properly packaged and protected during transportation to prevent
damage
• Transportation: The transportation of prefabricated components can be
done using various methods depending on their size, weight, and
distance to be covered
3.1 distributing….
• Unloading and Storage: Upon arrival at the construction site, prefabricated
components need to be unloaded carefully to avoid any damage or
accidents
• Stacking and Organization: Stacking prefabricated components in an
organized manner is crucial for efficient assembly
• Assembly Sequence: The distribution and stacking of prefabricated
components should be planned in accordance with the assembly sequence
3.2. Wall frames erection and fixation
Erecting and fixing wall frames is an essential step in the construction
process of a building
Steps involved in erecting and fixing wall frames
Step 1: Planning and Preparation: before starting the construction of wall
frames, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out plan
Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools: To erect and fix wall frames, you will
need various materials and tools. The primary material is typically timber or
metal studs, which form the vertical members of the frame
Step 3: Marking Layout: Using the plan as a guide, mark the layout of the
wall frames on the floor or slab where they will be erected
Step 4: Cutting Studs:
Step 5: Assembling Frames: Begin by laying out the bottom plate, which is
the horizontal member that forms the base of the wall frame
Step 6: Adding Noggin and BracingT:o provide additional stability and
strength to the wall frame, add noggins between the studs at regular
intervals
3.2 wall frames….
Step 7: Fixing Frames in Place :Once the wall frames are assembled, they
need to be fixed in place
Step 8: Checking Alignment and Leveling
Step 9: Insulation and Cladding: Once the wall frames are erected and fixed,
insulation can be added between the studs to improve energy efficiency and
provide soundproofing e.g plasterboard,plywood
Step 10: Finishing Touches: finally, complete the wall construction by adding
any desired finishes such as paint, wallpaper, or tiles. Install doors, windows,
electrical outlets, and switches as per the building plan
3.2……
Here is a detailed guide on how to construct a wall frame
• Gather the necessary tools and materials
• Measure and mark the wall layout
• Cut the top and bottom plates
• Cut the studs
• Attach the studs to the plates
• Install additional studs and blocking
• Add headers and cripple studs: Headers are horizontal pieces of lumber placed
above openings such as doors or windows
• Check for level and square
N.B It is important to note that the specific steps and materials used may vary
depending on the building codes and regulations in your area. It is recommended
to consult local authorities or a professional contractor for guidance and to
ensure compliance with safety standards
3.3. Fixing wall to slab and strip foundation
Wall construction fixed on the slab or strip foundation is a common practice
in building construction to provide stability and resistance against wind forces
Steps of constructing walls on a slab or strip foundation
• Foundation is prepared according to the specifications provided in the
construction drawing
• Once the foundation is ready, the wall construction begins
• To fix the walls onto the foundation, anchor bolts or dowels are commonly
used
3.3 fixing wall……
Benefits fixing walls directly onto a slab or strip foundation
• Provides structural stability by creating a continuous load path from the walls
down to the foundation
• Improves resistance against lateral forces caused by wind pressure
• Helps to minimize potential damage to the walls during high wind events. By
firmly anchoring the walls to the foundation, the risk of wall collapse or
displacement is significantly reduced, providing a safer environment for
occupants
steps
• Identifying the problem:
• Assessing the foundation:
• Repairing cracks
• Addressing water damage:
• Stabilizing the foundation:
• Repairing the walls:
• Ensuring proper drainage:
• Monitoring and maintenance:
3.4. Bracing, straitening, plumbing and
aligning erected Walls
3.4.1. Bracing erected walls
Bracing is an essential component in ensuring the stability and integrity of
erected walls. Bracing refers to the temporary support structures that are
put in place to prevent walls from collapsing or shifting during the
construction process
Reasons why bracing is necessary for erected walls
• Walls are vulnerable to various external forces, such as wind, vibrations from
nearby machinery, or accidental impacts
• To reduce lateral movement for long walls
• To resist lateral forces, such as wind pressure or seismic activity, can cause
walls to sway or tilt.
• Provides additional support and stability against these lateral forces,
ensuring that the walls remain upright
3.4 bracing….
some common bracing techniques
• Diagonal Bracing: This method involves installing diagonal members
between wall studs or posts to create a triangular shape
• Diagonal bracing effectively distributes loads and forces along the entire
wall surface.
• Shear Walls: Shear walls are vertical elements made of reinforced concrete
or plywood that provide lateral resistance to the walls
• Rakers or Flying Shores: Raker’s or flying shores are temporary inclined
supports that provide additional stability to walls during construction
• They are typically used when constructing tall or long walls and help
counteract the lateral forces acting on the structure
3.4.2. Straightening Walls
Straightening walls is an essential part of the drywall installation process.
Walls that are not straight can cause a variety of problems, including
uneven finishes, water leaks, and structural issues
According to the International Building Code (IBC), "Walls shall be plumb
and straight
3.4.3. Plumbing Walls
Plumbing walls is another critical aspect of drywall installation
According to the IBC, "Walls shall be plumb and straight." (IBC
2018, Section 1404.1) This means that the wall must be perfectly
vertical and horizontal, with no deviations or irregularities
3.4.4. Aligning Walls
Aligning walls is the final step in the drywall installation process.
Walls that are not properly aligned can cause a variety of problems,
including uneven finishes, water leaks, and structural issues.
To ensure that walls are properly aligned, it's important to use a level and a
straightedge to check the wall's alignment as it is being installed
THANK YOU!
