PLUMB BOB TRICKS PORTABLE

Assemble the Pieces Photo by David Carmack Also, cut all the cripples, including the two that lie against the king studs, to length: the length of the king stud minus the length of the jack, minus the thickness of the header.Ħ.

PLUMB BOB TRICKS PORTABLE

Count the number of king and common studs marked on the plate and cut them all to the shortest measurement using a portable circular saw and Speed Square.

Take measurements at either end of the partition's location and at three spots in between.

These blocks represent the combined thickness of the sole and top plates.

To find the stud length, stack two 2x4 blocks face-to-face on the floor layout line and measure up to the ceiling layout line.

Transfer lines from the top plate to the header, showing where the cripple studs go.

Set header against top plate between king stud locations.

Repeat at each mark to indicate stud locations.

Work away from the end, drawing a line 1½ inches from the first.

At the first stud, draw a line across both plates.

Draw an 'O' between each pair for jack studs. Draw parallel lines 1 1/2 inches in from the header. Draw an 'X' between each pair of lines, showing king stud locations. Draw another line 1½ inches from the first.

Place header against sole plate in doorway mark each end onto plate.

Mark stud locations 15 1/4 inches from plate end, then every 16 inches. If the walls aren't plumb, stagger the plates by the differences in the Step 1 plumb-bob measurements. Cut two header pieces 3 inches longer than the opening's width.ģ.

Cut two jack studs 1 1/2 inches shorter than the rough opening height.

If a doorway is planned, add 2 inches to the door's width and height to determine the dimensions of its rough opening.

Measure the chalk lines to determine the lengths of the sole and top plates.

Using the marks as a guide, snap a chalk line on the floor and the ceiling.

Record the difference between the top and bottom measurements at each end for Step 3. If it's not 3 inches, then that abutting wall is not plumb.

Measure the distance from each floor mark to its abutting wall.

From that mark, drop a plumb bob and mark the floor.

Mark the ceiling 3 inches from one wall where the partition will abut it.

Lay Out the Wooden Partition Photo by David Carmack Framing with good materials and smart techniques lay the groundwork for everything that follows: smooth walls, countertops that fit perfectly, and doors that swing without sticking. Even though all this work ends up buried behind drywall, shortcuts lead to trouble. This project employs the same principles and components that are used in the construction of any frame house: 2x lumber spaced and nailed correctly, then set plumb. 'If you're refinishing an attic or adding a closet or home office, you're going to need an extra wall or two,' says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva.īuilding a simple partition wall-a stud wall that divides an interior space without bearing any load-is a perfect introduction to the basics of home construction. Remember that a homemade plumb bob may not be as accurate as most commercially available plumb bobs in the market, but it is usually enough to get the job done.4 to 6 hours (to frame an 8-foot-long wall with one doorway)įor every remodeling job that involves knocking down a wall, there's another that calls for putting one up. Making a plumb bob is easy and requires only basic tools and materials. Your plumb bob can now be used for vertical measurements.

This will make it easier to hang freely, as well. Tie the end of the cord to an S-hook to minimize wear on the cord as you use it from one job to the next. It will also enable the plumb bob to produce a more accurate straight line. This will help add weight to the improvised plumb bob. Grab a couple of metal washers and thread through the string. You may drill a small hole on the top to accommodate the string. Use a string of adequate length, depending on the desired application. Save yourself the hassles of squinting back and forth by using a colored string. This will make it easy to judge the vertical integrity of the line created. It is also best to use a nylon-string that is colored or visible from any angle, preferably in contrast to the color of the surrounding area. You may not need a thick cord to do the job right, but it helps to have a string or fishing line that is strong enough to hold at least 8 to 10 pounds of weight. Step 2 – Secure the Top with Nylon StringĬhoose a nylon string that is both durable and visible at the same time.

Minor damage to the top or fishing weight will produce discrepancies in terms of measurement.

Inspect the toy spinning top or fishing weight for any visible damage or cracks on the surface to ensure an accurate measurement. Step 1 – Inspect the Spinning Top or Fishing Weight

Plumb bob tricks