Straightening Framed Walls
Blame it on sloppy framing or lousy lumber, but many stud walls need some remedial work before the drywall goes on.
Synopsis: You can’t hide a crooked stud wall with a layer of gypsum drywall. The author explains how to check the rough framing before the finish walls go up, and how to correct common problems such as a bowed stud.
As a craftsman, I’m offended when I notice bowed walls and wavy ceilings in newly finished houses. Everyone knows it’s tough to find straight, knot-free lumber these days. But bad lumber is not the only cause of bad walls. Extreme weather conditions that strike before the roof is dried in, as well as fluctuations in temperature and humidity afterward, can make even good studs go bad.
The frequency of warped and twisted studs in the average frame house can be reduced if lumber is kept banded and covered until the framers are ready for it. Conscientious framers will also crown moderately bowed studs and cull the worst…
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