How to Frame a Gable

Layout the placement of the 2-by-4 studs along the top edge of the bottom chord of the truss. Carry these measurements to the upper chord with your level, and lay out the studs' locations along the upper cord. The studs for the gable end should line up vertically with the studs in the exterior walls, with each stud in the gable end centered over the wall studs below them.

Measure the longest distance from the lower to upper chord on the truss for each stud. The upper chord is at an angle to the lower chord, and you will cut each gable stud at an angle that matches the truss exactly.

Transfer the upper chord's angle to your pocket bevel, or measure the angle with your framing square. Using this measured angle, cut the tops of the gable wall studs at an angle that matches the top chord.

Position the stud in gable truss, and nail it into the truss so that the face of the 2-by-4 stud is flush with the outer face of the truss. You will toe nail the stud into place, since it butts into, and lies fully in between the top and bottom chords rather than overlapping them.

Install 2-by-4 studs across the entire gable truss, 16 inches apart from one other to complete the gable end framing.