Framing Guides

Practical answers on construction types, inspections and seismic framing for commercial and multifamily projects in Oregon and Washington.

Steel vs. Wood Framing for Commercial Buildings

Structural Systems

6 min read

Steel vs. Wood Framing for Commercial Buildings

How light gauge steel and wood framing compare on code classification, weight, schedule, moisture and labor, and where each one fits on a commercial or multifamily project.

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Type V Construction and 5-Over-1 Podium Buildings Explained

Building Codes

6 min read

Type V Construction and 5-Over-1 Podium Buildings Explained

What Type V-A and V-B construction mean, how 4-over-1 and 5-over-1 podium buildings work, and why they became the standard for mid-rise apartments in the Northwest.

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Framing Inspection Checklist for Commercial and Multifamily Projects

Inspections

7 min read

Framing Inspection Checklist for Commercial and Multifamily Projects

What building inspectors check at framing inspection on commercial and multifamily jobs, and a pre-inspection checklist that helps you pass the first time.

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Seismic

6 min read

Shear Walls and Seismic Framing in Oregon

How wood shear walls resist earthquake and wind loads, what goes into a shear wall assembly, and why framing details matter so much in Oregon and Washington.

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