The newly revised and updated edition of this classic reference volume reflects all the latest innovations in residential frame construction.

Ideal for builders, architects, students or anyone interested in building their own home, The Graphic Guide to Frame Construction is a new addition to our popular series of books For Pros By Pros.

Filled with hundreds of meticulous drawings, this comprehensive visual handbook shows you every precise detail you need to know about framing with wood.

Building on the success of two earlier editions -- which have sold over 230,000 copies -- accomplished architect and teacher Rob Thallon brings you up to date on new materials, construction methods, and building code revisions.

And because examples are taken from actual job sites -- by a trusted professional -- it's all reliable, field-tested information you can put to work immediately.

Here are as few examples of what you'll find:

• Step-by-step details for advanced framing
• How to use modern-engineered and composite materials
• Strategies for building in high wind and seismic areas
• Expert advice on foundations, floors, walls, roofs and stairs

Whether you're a builder, architect or homeowner, you'll find this up-to-the-minute resource is the perfect visual aid to help you tackle a wide range of framing projects with confidence.

Introduction

1. Foundations
Footings
Foundation Walls
Pier & Grade-Beam Systems
Basement Walls
Retaining Walls
Drainage & Waterproofing
Wall Caps
Slabs
Utilities

2. Floors
Beams
Joist Systems
Girder Systems
Subflooring
Porches & Decks
Insulation

3. Walls
Framing
Lateral Bracing
Sheathing
Shear Walls
Moisture & Air Barriers
Windows
Doors
Flashing
Exterior Finishes
Insulation

4. Roofs
Framing
Sheathing
Flashing
Roofing
Gutters & Downspouts
Insulation & Ventilation

5. Stairs
Framing
Treads & Risers
Balustrades
Handrails
Exterior Stairs
Exterior Steps

Legend
List of Abbreviations
Resources
Glossary
Index

Light wood-frame construction originated in this country over 150 years ago and quickly evolved into the predominant construction system for houses and other small-scale buildings. Today, over 90% of all new buildings in North America are made using some version of this method. Remodeling projects follow the same track.

There are many reasons why this system has been the choice of professional and amateur builders alike over the years. A principal reason is its flexibility. Because the modules are small, virtually any shape or style of building can be built easily with the studs, joists, and rafters that are the primary components of wood-frame construction. In addition, the pieces are easily handled, the material is readily available, and the skills and tools required for assembly are easily acquired.

Given the popularity of the system, it was surprising to find that, before the publication of the first edition of this book, there existed no detailed and comprehensive reference focusing on light wood framing. Now, seventeen years and two editions later, nearly 125,000 copies of Graphic Guide to Frame Construction have found their way into the libraries of architects, contractors, owner-builders, and students.

The acceptance of the Graphic Guide as a standard reference has corresponded with great strides in building technology. Wood frame buildings today are built faster, stronger, and with more efficient use of materials. Engineered lumber products, relatively rare just 20 years ago, are now more common than sawn lumber for many parts of a building. Wooden buildings are now greatly more resistant to the forces of hurricanes and earthquakes. Vinyl windows, which were just being introduced, are now the standard. Advanced framing that both conserves material and allows for upgraded insulation is rapidly gaining acceptance. These and many other advances were incorporated into the second edition, but the building culture is not static. Best practices are evolving rapidly because of improved communication and building science, and innovative materials are proliferating to meet increased demand.

This third edition expands on those issues covered in the first two editions with the addition of the most recently developed practices and materials. In particular, this edition updates the details for engineered lumber products and takes a closer look at the important issue of moisture in wood frame building assemblies. These two subjects have dominated the research in recent years and significantly impact each chapter of the book. The topic of environmental responsibility, which has gained serious traction in recent years, has been covered extensively in previous editions but receives further discussion here.

With all the attention given to advanced practices and materials, it is also important not to forget traditional principles and materials. These form the backbone of the system of wood frame construction and are the starting point for the important and considerable work of remodeling and renovation.