How to Frame a Wall Cutout

A wall cutout can open up your living space without the need for removing the entire wall. For example, if you have a wall between your kitchen and living room, you can install a cutout to lend a more open feel between these two rooms. You will need to frame the cutout to provide structural support and give the wall a clean, finished look. You can frame a cutout with basic carpentry tools and hardware.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Chalk line
• Carpenter's square
• Reciprocating saw
• Sledgehammer
• 2-by-4 inch pressure-treated lumber
• Circular saw
• Electric screwdriver
• Drywall
• Utility knife
• Drywall screws
• Drywall tape
• Drywall compound
• Putty knife
• Palm sander

Instructions

1. Add 4 inches to the finished height and width of the cutout. Transfer these measurements to the wall with a measuring tape and mark the corners of the cutout on both sides of the wall. Snap a chalk line across the corners to create an outline of the cutout.

2. Check the outline with a carpenter's square to ensure that the corners form 90-degree angles. Cut through the drywall along the outline on both sides of the wall with a reciprocating saw. Use a sledgehammer to remove the drywall to form the opening.

3. Cut the wall studs at the top and bottom of the opening with a reciprocating saw. Remove the wall stud sections from the opening.

4. Cut two sections of 2-by-4 inch pressure-treated lumber to the width of the opening with a circular saw. These sections form the top and bottom plates of the opening. Attach the top and bottom plates to the cut ends of the wall studs with 4-inch wood screws and an electric screwdriver.

5. Cut two sections of 2-by-4 inch pressure-treated lumber to the interior distance between the top and bottom plates with a circular saw. These sections form the side studs of the opening. Stand one of these sections on each end of the bottom plate.

6. Insert 4-inch wood screws through the side studs into the top and bottom plates with an electric screwdriver. Drive the screws at 45-degree angles to secure the studs to the plates.

7. Cut sections of drywall with a utility knife to cover the plates and studs. Install the drywall sections with drywall screws at 4-inch intervals.

8. Tape over the drywall corners and seams with drywall tape. Spread drywall compound over the tape and screw heads with a putty knife. After the compound dries, sand the drywall surfaces with a palm sander.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with a professional builder if the wall is load-bearing. A wall cutout may compromise the structural integrity of the home.

• Wear work gloves and goggles when completing a wall cutout to minimize your risk of injuries.

References

• The Complete Guide to Carpentry for Homeowners; Chris Marshall