Framing

Overview

Framing is the stage of construction in which the structural skeleton of a building is erected. It is also the stage in which the entire rest of the project has its character decided. A well-framed building forgives everything that follows. A poorly-framed one does not.^[1]

In software terms, framing is architecture. You can compensate for bad architecture with effort, but you cannot replace it without rebuilding. This is not a metaphor. This is the same idea expressed in different materials.

Principles

• Layout lines are sacred. The moment you say "close enough" on a layout line, the wall is already wrong.
• Crown up. All lumber is slightly bowed. Orient the crown consistently. Do not pretend it isn't bowed.
• Plumb, level, square. The holy trinity. If any two are off, the third is compromised, even if it measures correct.
• Block for what comes next. The drywaller, the tile setter, the cabinet installer — they are relying on you. They do not know this. They will find out.
• Frame the openings as designed. If the window is 36", frame 36-1/2". Do not improvise.

Burbridge's Approach

Burbridge has stated, on record, that framing is "where the job is won or lost." The position is strongly held. It is also consistent with Aggressive Craftsmanship Tenet #4 ("Beauty Is Not Optional"), though Burbridge has noted that in framing, beauty and correctness are the same thing.

"A straight wall is a beautiful wall." — Burbridge, on a job site, in winter

References