How to Build a Closet Frame

Building a closet frame is simply a variation on the basic principles of building a wall for a house and usually follows the same design. That means knowing about the top plates, bottom plates and studs that make up a wall.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-by-4-by-27-inch lumber (2)
• 2-by-4-by-92¾-inch lumber (8)
• 16d nails
• 2-by-4-by-96-inch lumber
• 2-by-4-by-15¾-inch lumber (2)
• 2-by-4-by-82½-inch lumber (2)
• 2-by-4-by-8¾-inch lumber (5)

1. Place the two 27-inch pieces of lumber (top and bottom plates) on a worktable along with two of the 92¾-inch lumber (wall studs). Place a stud on each end of the top and bottom plate and secure them with 16d nails. This will be the side wall of the closet.

2. Place the 96-inch piece of lumber (top plate) on the worktable and secure a 92¾-inch stud on either end with the 16d nails. Measure from the ends and make a mark at 15¾ inches.

3. Secure a wall stud on the inside of the 15¾-inch mark with the 16d nails. Then install the 15¾-inch pieces (bottom plates) to the bottom of the wall studs. This is the front wall of the closet frame.

4. Secure each 82½-inch piece of lumber, flush to the bottom, to the insides of the studs that make up the closet door opening. These will support the header.

5. Place the 64½-inch lumber (bottom of header) on top of the support posts and secure it through the studs. Next, secure the 8¾ lumber between the 64½-inch and the bottom of the top plate spacing them out evenly.

Tips & Warnings

• Be certain to have plenty of room when swinging a hammer inside the house.
• You can substitute 3-inch drywall screws for 16d nails.
• Do not leave building equipment and tools unattended in the presence of children.
• Wear safety glasses at all times to protect your eyes from splinters and other debris that get stirred up while framing a closet.

References

• Building a Simple Closet

Resources

• How to Build a Closet