Frame New Walls or Niches
After opening up your space, you may need new partition walls, archways, or recessed niches to define zones and add architectural character. Proper framing creates the skeleton for everything that follows: drywall, trim, and built-ins.
Time Required
1-3 days
Cost
$500-$2,500
Difficulty
Moderate to Hard
Framing Process
Lay out the new wall on the floor
Snap chalk lines on the floor where the new wall will stand. Use a plumb bob or laser level to transfer the line to the ceiling. The bottom plate and top plate must align perfectly for a plumb wall.
Install the top and bottom plates
Attach the top plate to ceiling joists with 3-inch screws. Fasten the bottom plate to the subfloor. Use pressure-treated lumber for the bottom plate if it sits on concrete. Leave gaps for doorways.
Set studs at 16-inch centers
Cut 2x4 studs to fit between the plates and toenail or use framing screws to secure them. Place studs 16 inches on center for standard drywall. Add extra studs at corners and intersections for nailing surfaces.
Frame niches and archways
For recessed niches, frame an opening between studs and add a header and sill. Niches are typically 3.5 inches deep (the stud cavity depth). For archways, create a plywood arch template and attach it to the header framing.
Common Framing Applications
- Partition walls: Define a foyer, separate a reading nook, or create a media wall without blocking sight lines
- Half walls (pony walls): 36-42 inch tall walls that define space while maintaining openness
- Arched openings: Elegant transitions between rooms that soften the look of structural columns
- Display niches: Recessed wall niches for art, sculptures, or decorative objects. Can be lit with LED strips
- Fireplace wall framing: Built-out walls that house a new fireplace, mantel, or TV niche
Pro Tips
- •Check for plumb and square constantly: Use a 4-foot level on every stud and a framing square at every corner. Crooked framing means crooked drywall, which means visible flaws forever.
- •Plan for wiring before closing up: If the new wall needs outlets, switches, or low-voltage runs, have the electrician rough-in wiring before drywall goes up.
- •Add blocking for heavy items: If you plan to mount a TV, heavy shelves, or sconces on the new wall, add horizontal blocking between studs at the mounting height now.