Wall Framing Diagram and Parts (Complete Guide)

Understanding wall framing parts helps you plan, build, and modify walls correctly. This guide explains all wall framing components, how they fit together, and what each part does.

What is wall framing?

Wall framing is the structural system that forms the skeleton of a wall. It includes vertical studs, horizontal plates, and supporting members that carry loads and support finishes like drywall. Most residential walls use wood stud framing, but metal studs are also common in some applications.

Wall Framing Diagram (Overview)

A standard wall framing diagram includes these key components. Each part has a specific role in wall strength and layout.

Bottom plate (Sole plate)
Top plate (Single or double)
Wall studs (Verticals)

Headers (Over openings)
King & Jack studs (Support)
Cripples & Blocking

Main Wall Framing Parts Explained

1. Bottom Plate (Sole Plate)

The horizontal member that sits on the floor.

Anchors the wall to the floor/subfloor.
Holds studs in position.

2. Top Plate

Runs along the very top of the wall.

Types: Single or Double (most common).
Ties studs together and transfers loads from above.

3. Wall Studs

Vertical framing members placed at regular spacing (16" or 24" OC).

👉 Calculate Stud Quantity

4. Headers

Horizontal members placed above doors and windows to carry loads over the opening.

5. King Studs & Jack Studs

King Studs: Run full height beside the opening.
Jack Studs: Sit inside the king stud and support the header from below.

6. Cripple Studs

Short studs located above headers or below window sills to maintain spacing.

Typical Wall Framing Layout

A basic layout ensures structure and safety. For layout specific help, check:

👉 Stud Spacing Guide 👉 How Many Studs Do I Need

Wood vs Metal Wall Framing

Wood Framing

Common in houses
Easy to cut and modify
Widely accepted by residential codes

Metal Framing

Straight and lightweight
Common in commercial/basements
Requires different fasteners

👉 Metal Stud Calculator

Interior vs Exterior Framing

Interior Walls: Often non-load-bearing, use 2×4 studs, simpler details.
Exterior Walls: Load-bearing, often use 2×6 studs, include insulation and sheathing.

Common Framing Questions

At a minimum, you need a Bottom Plate, a Top Plate, and Studs. If the wall has a door or window, you will also need headers, king studs, jack studs, and cripples.

Yes, but changes must maintain structural integrity (especially for load-bearing walls) and follow local building codes. Never cut a stud without planning how to support the load it carries.

Related Framing Resources

Avoid framing mistakes

Use this diagram for structure, and our calculators for exact material numbers.

Calculate Materials Now

Menu