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Construction uses all kinds of inspections to make sure projects are going to plan. Framing inspections are no different: They judge a building’s frame and components to ensure everything is installed correctly and according to local codes.

Inspections are a good tool: They help with the quality control of a new structure. Still, contractors may get a little worried ahead of their inspections, because failing one can be expensive and cause project delays.

To best prepare for framing inspections, contractors can use a framing inspection checklist to go through all the elements of their project as it progresses, ensuring everything goes smoothly and the project is set up to pass.

This article will discuss items that might be included on construction framing inspection checklists and how contracting teams can use them for optimal project performance.

What is a framing inspection checklist?

A framing inspection checklist is a list of requirements that guides professional inspectors, construction managers, supervisors and contractors to evaluate the integrity and accuracy of a building's frame during construction. It ensures that all components meet specific standards and codes.

The integrity of newly constructed buildings depends partly on the quality of their framing. Conducting framing inspections early in the construction process can help identify issues before they become more costly or hazardous.

While inspectors use a checklist to complete required inspections, builders and contractors can use them to better prepare for coming inspections by frequently checking a project to make sure the framing is up to code and correcting any problems along the way.

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Framing Inspection Checklist

Use this framing inspection checklist to create a personalized list of inspection items. It includes suggested elements inspectors have an eye out for and room for notes.

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Key Components of a Framing Inspection Checklist

A checklist that covers framing quality seeks to ensure the framing is of good quality and follows local building codes laws. Here are some of the key areas it might cover:

1. Building Plans and Layouts

   Checks the dimensions as built to ensure they align with the approved building plans

2. Trusses and Joists

   Ensures beams and hangers for trusses and joists are installed correctly

3. Connections and Fasteners

   Confirms connections and fasteners are secure and appropriate for the load they carry

4. Compliance with Building Codes

   Elements like fire blocking and shear walls that adequately transfer forces to the foundation have to be worked into the built structure to maintain its safety and integrity.

Common Issues Identified During Framing Inspections

During inspections, there are some common issues that may cause framing inspection failures. Addressing these issues promptly can help build a strong building and pass framing inspections.

Misalignment of Structural Elements

The strength of a structure depends in part on the way the load of the building is distributed through the frame. If the pieces aren’t lined up correctly it may weaken the structure. For instance, a beam or girder bearing must have a it at least the same width as the beam in order to transfer the load through the wall to the footing.

Compromised Studs

Boring too big a hole in a stud can compromise the strength of a wall. If, for instance, a bathroom requires a ventilation pipe 3” in diameter, the hole that must be bored to make way through a stud can be overly large. The stud may have to be reinforced with metal plates or other studs alongside it.

Incorrect or Insufficient Fasteners

Although it’s a key aspect of framing, lack of sufficient fasteners is an easy miss and may be a key reason for failing inspections. For instance, must have concrete-embedded anchor bolts attaching exterior walls to the foundation, while interior walls need to be attached with powder-actuated fasteners. Attempting to use the wrong size hangers or fasteners may be a good way to fail an inspection.

Holes in Beams

Beams are load-bearing and shouldn’t have holes in them. Holes bored in beams for electrical or plumbing work may require an engineer to recalculate the beam’s efficiency or else they could fail inspection.

Non-Compliance with Building Codes and Plans

A key focus of framing inspections is ensuring adherence to local, state and national building regulations. Awareness of local rules can help avoid failing an inspection because of a specific localized rule. If the builder deviates from the approved building plan, the plan will have to be revised and approved again before the building is likely to pass inspection.

What is the best way for contractors to use framing inspection checklists?

Inspectors use checklists to ensure they have done a thorough and complete check of all the necessary framing elements on a construction project. Contractors can use them to go through their projects regularly and catch any problems or oversights early on, saving themselves from bigger issues and rework later on down the line.

Mobile apps and inspections tools can help contractors complete checklists, collect data from past checklists, and recognize patterns that help perform better in the future.

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Using Checklists for Better Inspection Performance

Framing inspections are a key part of the overall building inspection process, and are crucial for maintaining construction quality and safety. Checklists can help inspectors through thorough checks of a building’s structural integrity, and so play a role in ensuring that structures are built to last.

By using checklists to complete regular self-examination of framing practices, construction professionals can mitigate risks, reduce costs and deliver projects that stand the test of time.

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