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16 OC starting point

1.8K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  GBrackins  
#1 ·
Usually for 16 OC studs you measure 15 1/4" from the outside edge for your first stud so that precut materials line up properly.

Are there any instances where it actually works better to measure from the centre of the first stud to start your 16 OC pattern instead of the outside edge?
 
#5 ·
if laying out platform framing I've always pick one corner to start (left front, right front) and went 48" from the outside face of the corner stud for the center of a stud, then 16" o.c. from that point (both ways). This way I know my wood structural sheathing is going to land on a stud. I make sure to do the same with my joists (whether solid sawn or truss). if floor trusses at 24" o.c. (which I don't like the spacing) then I pull 24" from that mark made at 48" from the corner and everything works out. Same for the roof layout. It looks more professional to me when you rafters/joists/studs all line up. If you frame this way most codes (you'd have to verify yours) will allow a single top plate as you have created a direct load path from roof to foundation. Double top plates are required as a "beam" to support the load above when members do not align.

With that said I don't normally frame in the field (though I have), I frame on my computer.