How to Frame in a Window in the Attic

Open the interior side of the wall to expose the wooden framework beneath. Use your crowbar to remove the drywall or plywood paneling that covers the wall framework. A series of vertical studs that run from the floor of the attic to the roof line will be revealed. The space between two of these vertical studs will be where the window is installed.

Mark the top and bottom edges of your window frame onto the studs between which you plan to install it. Measure the distance from the floor to the bottom pencil mark, and subtract 1 1/2 inches to account for additional framing elements that will be added later. Cut two studs out of 2-by-4s to this length using your circular saw. These will serve as your lower jack studs. Install the lower jack studs between the floor and the bottom pencil mark along the inside edge of the existing wall studs using your hammer and nails.

Take measurements from the top pencil mark to the ceiling. Subtract 1 1/2 inches from the measurement, then use your circular saw to cut two studs to that measurement. These will serve as your upper jack studs. Use your hammer and nails to fasten each of the upper jack studs between the top pencil mark and the ceiling along the inside edge of the existing wall stud.

Measure the space between your king studs, and use your circular saw to cut two pieces of 2-by-4 to that measurement to serve as the top and bottom of the window opening. Place one horizontal stud atop the two bottom jack studs, and install the other under the two top jack studs. Use your hammer and nails to fasten them in place.

Cut two more studs to fit the space between the underside of the bottom horizontal stud and the floor, and another to fit the space between the top horizontal stud and the roof line. Install each piece at the center point between the jack studs, one above the top of the opening framework, and one below the bottom of the opening. These studs will provide additional support to the window opening and prevent warping.

Measure the space between the top and bottom horizontal studs. Cut two 2-by-4s to fit this space. Install one stud on the inside of the opening at either edge. Place the window into the opening and nail the frame to the studs on either side of the opening.