Used in the construction of buildings, a plate is the horizontal board located at the top and bottom of stud walls. The board on top is called the top plate and the board on the bottom is known as the floor plate. Located at a ninety degree angle from the wall studs, these plates allow walls to be constructed while lying down and then set upright into position within the structure.
How to Build a Wall Using a Top Plate and Floor Plate:
• Place the top plate and floor plate side by side on the floor. Using a square, measure and mark where each stud will be placed.
• Find the ceiling joists and attach the top plate to the joists.
• Run a plumb line from the ceiling to just above the floor to locate where to place the floor plate.
• Use framing clips to install each wall stud where indicated in step one.
• Be sure to use two studs at any location where two walls will meet or in any corner.
The use of a top plate and a floor plate in buildings will help insure your building is solid and will stand up to wind and other forces of nature for many years to come.
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