How to Lay Out a Frame on a Wall

Whether adding a false wall or a partition to a room, the proper framing technique is imperative for the success of the project. When laying out a frame on an existing wall, rafters and exterior studs are not an issue, which simplifies the project and puts it in the beginners to advanced beginner's do-it-yourself category. Be sure to collect all of the necessary items prior to starting. Having a helper along is also a good idea when framing walls.

Measuring tape
Circular saw
2-by-4-inch boards
Level
16-penny nails
Hammer
6-inch concrete screws
Handheld drill

Instructions

- 1
  Measure for the needed width of the wall and the height of the existing wall. Measure from floor to ceiling to determine the height.
- 2
  Cut two 2-by-4 inch boards the width of the wall. This will create one section of wall. If the wall will be longer than 12 feet, two sets of two 2-by-4 inch boards will be needed.
- 3
  Mark one of the cut 2-by-4 boards with a pencil at 16-inch intervals. Measure from the very end and mark clearly in a straight line across the width section of the board. The last mark, before the opposite end, may not leave 16 inches to the end of the board. This is expected and is fine.
- 4
  Count the number of marks on the board and add two for the outside boards. Subtract 4 inches from the measured height of the wall. Cut the number of marks of 2-by-4 boards to the determined height.
- 5
  Begin attaching the cut boards to the frame base. Lay the width board with the short side up. Align a height board with the very end on the left. Turn the height board short side up. Use a level to ensure the board is straight. Nail the width board with two 16-penny nails from the opposite side of the width board. Repeat this process at each 16-inch mark and finally at the right edge of the width board.
- 6
  Complete the frame by attaching the second width board to the top of the row of height boards. Align the piece to match the bottom piece and nail it in place with two 16-penny nails at each height board.
- 7
  Set the wall frame in place. Use the level to align it. Attach the wall frame to the floor by drilling concrete screws into the floor through the bottom width board. Place screws every 8 inches.

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