How to Frame a Wall in a Garage

A garage can be either attached to a house or detached. It is the storage room where the car is kept. Because the garage does not house people, you would think the garage would not have the same building specifications as the house, but it does. Check with your city before framing your garage walls to learn what permits need to be pulled and what codes you must follow.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-by-4 pressure treated lumber Clamps Tape measure Pencil 2-by-4 wall studs Table saw 16-penny nails Hammer Masonry nails or screws Drill motor Gloves Goggles

1. Lay out two 2-by-4s--one for the top plate and a pressure treated, moisture resistant board for the bottom plate. Secure the boards together with clamps, flush at each end.

2. Measure and mark the boards for the studs one every 16-inches on center. Start at one end.

3. Cut seven studs to length by measuring the height from the ceiling to the floor minus 3 1/2-inches. Three inches is the width of the top and bottom plates combined. The extra 1/2 inch is the amount of play you will need to tilt the wall into place.

4. Unclamp the two 2-by-4 plates and spread them apart to accommodate the garage wall studs. Place two 12-penny nails into the top and bottom of each stud through the top and bottom plates at your marks.

5. Use masonry nails and a large hammer to secure the framed wall to the concrete garage floor. You can also use a masonry bit and a drill motor and tack the wall to the floor with concrete screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Snap a chalk line the entire length of the wall at the floor and the ceiling to make sure your wall is plumb and even. It's best to frame the garage walls on the ground. You'll have more control over board placement.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands and goggles to protect your eyes when using power tools.