Expert: Dan Griffin - 4/14/2009

Question
hello!
We are sectioning off our living room and need to build a wall. It needs to
have an opening for a door, and an opening for a window that i will get from
the architectural salvage yard (so that light can come into the other part of
the living room from the sectioned off part.)

We cannot attach to the floor (its nice wood)- only to the ceiling and side
walls.
The measurements are approx. 8.5 ft tall x 12.5 ft wide

I have only a vague understanding of the process at this point.
I understand the FRAME is built first, on the ground. 2x4 frame with 16 on
center studs.
Except-- how does that work with the doorframe and window?

This is where i get confused without a diagram.

thanks so much,
Marina.

Answer
Marina, good framing and carpentry is a job that requires years of apprenticeship and experience.  I don't know that I can explain how to do it by text.  There are books at the public library that can give you some good basic information with illustrations.

The base plate of your wall has to be anchored some how, especially at the door.  I'm guessing you may be renting or this wall condition is temporary.  It is possible to drill a few very small discrete holes to allow pinning the base plate.  These holes can be filled or plugged and stained when the wall comes down.

I would frame the wall a bit too short- about a 1/2 to 3/4" so that you can raise it once assembled.  It is also possible to set the top plate and bottom plate and toe nail all the studs into location.  In all reality I would use metal studs to perform.

The door and window will require a proper sized rough opening.  A window in an interior wall is quite unusual.  Perhaps you should tell me what you are planning to do with the room for some alternate ideas.

When you have enough of the jargon to ask specific questions about your project, please ask again.