Lessons learned

1. I used Larry's secret for accurately drilling holes in the bottom plate so the frame will slide easily over the anchor bolts -- before building, rest the board on top of the bolts then tap it, making a mark showing exactly where to drill. A few lessons -- (a) Make sure the side that originally faced the anchor bolts is also the side that faces away from the frame. Otherwise, it won't fit and you have to drill an even bigger hole or series of holes. This picture doesn't really show it, but there isn't a whole lot of wood left where the anchor bolt is. Enough, but not much. (b) Remember to locate where the holes will go before nailing the frame. It is much easier that way.




2. When measuring a header, measure from the regular studs, not from the inside of the jack studs. Otherwise, you will be 3.5 inches shy.


3. Draw out the wall frame before building (Peter's suggestion).


4. When your mother offers you a notepad for jotting down measurements, lists, etc, just take it. Resistance is futile.


5. Don't be too attached to the plans you have for the day. Not that I haven't learned that lesson many times before, but I keep learning it.


6. Lock up your tools. I discovered that about $100 worth of tools was missing from the worksite. A real bummer. I bought a metal jobsite storage box that is now chained to a tree. It feels so gross to have to worry about that on my land.

7. Put the baseplate gasket and termite shield down BEFORE setting the framed wall in place!