How to Frame a Wall When the Floor Is Uneven

Frame walls are commonly constructed when finishing a room. The frame walls are built on the floor, then raised and slid into position against the existing cement block or concrete wall. One vital part of the installation process is ensuring that the wall is plumb -- exactly straight vertically. If the floor is uneven or slopes, the wall will not be plumb. By following the correct installation steps and using the right tools, you can ensure that the wall is plumb.

Level
Wooden shims
Drill
Lag bolts
Socket wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Set your frame wall upright and maneuver it into position against the wall where it's being installed.
- 2
  Place a level against the vertical studs of the wall and note the position of the bubble to determine which way the wall is leaning because of the slope or unevenness of the floor.
- 3
  Place shims underneath the bottom sills of the wall and recheck the plumb of the wall until the vertical studs are straight up and down. Fill in any open areas under the bottom sill with shims. Snap off the ends of the shims even with the outer edge of the bottom sill.
- 4
  Drill through the bottom sill and shims, into the subfloor, every 16 inches. Insert lag bolts and tighten them with a socket wrench to brace the wall to the floor. Check the plumb of the wall as you proceed to ensure you keep it straight and level.

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