House framing is the structural skeleton that supports walls, floors, ceilings and roofs. Our framing crews build with precision to meet California codes, seismic requirements and the architectural vision for each Beverly Hills, Encino, Sherman Oaks and Studio City project.
Framing as the Structural Skeleton
In a luxury custom home, framing is where the design on paper turns into a three-dimensional structure. Every wall, opening and roofline depends on the framing layout. Done correctly, the frame carries loads cleanly down to the foundation, resists lateral forces from wind and earthquakes, and supports the high-end finishes that come later — from large windows to custom millwork.
On R Builders projects, we treat framing as both structural engineering and craft. The bones have to be strong and code-compliant, but they also have to align perfectly with cabinetry, tile layouts, door and window packages, and architectural details.
From Structural Plans to Field Layout
House framing starts long before the first stud is nailed. We work from structural and architectural plans to create a clear, buildable layout that our crews can follow. Typical steps include:
- Reviewing structural drawings for beams, posts, shear walls and holdowns.
- Coordinating framing with mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) routes.
- Verifying key dimensions, window and door locations, and ceiling heights on site.
- Marking walls and control lines on the slab or subfloor before walls are built.
This coordination helps avoid conflicts and change orders once the structure is going vertical.
Wall Framing & Shear Walls
Most of our luxury custom homes use engineered wood framing with a combination of 2x4 and 2x6 walls. An important part of the system is the shear wall layout — walls designed to resist lateral loads and keep the structure stable during seismic events.
- Anchor bolts, holdowns and straps are set per structural plans.
- Shear wall sheathing is nailed with specific patterns and edge distances.
- Openings for windows and doors are framed with properly sized headers and trimmers.
- Stud spacing and layout follow code and engineering requirements.
Our superintendents and framing foremen pay close attention to shear wall details because they are often inspected by both structural engineers and building officials in Los Angeles jurisdictions.
Floor Framing & Load Paths
In multi-story homes, floor framing ties the whole system together. We think carefully about load paths — how forces travel from the roof to the floors and down to the foundation.
Depending on the design, we may use:
- Engineered I-joists or LVLs for long spans and open floor plans.
- Conventional joists where spans are shorter and layouts are simple.
- Beams and girders that pick up point loads from upper-level walls and roof structures.
At the same time, we coordinate with the MEP trades so plumbing drains, ductwork and electrical runs can move through the framing without compromising structural members.
Roof Framing: Pitch, Overhangs & Architectural Lines
Roof framing is often one of the most visible expressions of a custom home’s architecture — especially in modern and Spanish-influenced designs across Beverly Hills, Encino and Sherman Oaks.
Our framing work focuses on:
- Aligning roof planes and pitches exactly as drawn.
- Building clean overhangs, fascias and soffits that receive stucco or siding cleanly.
- Accommodating skylights, roof decks and mechanical equipment where required.
- Maintaining proper ventilation and drainage slopes under roofing assemblies.
When framers, roofers and architects are aligned, the finished silhouette of the home feels intentional and balanced from every angle.
Seismic Requirements in California
Building in California means framing has to do more than carry vertical loads — it must also work as part of a complete seismic system. That includes:
- Correct placement and installation of holdowns, anchors and straps.
- Proper nailing patterns and edge distances on shear panels.
- Blocking and drag struts to tie walls and diaphragms together.
- Attention to irregularities in plan and elevation that can create stress concentrations.
Our crews are familiar with Los Angeles area requirements and inspection expectations, and we treat structural hardware and shear details as non-negotiables on every job.
Framing for Large Openings & Glass Walls
Many luxury homes feature large sliding doors, pocket doors and glass walls that open to outdoor living spaces. These dramatic openings require careful framing and engineering.
- Steel or engineered wood beams often carry loads over wide spans.
- Point loads must be supported by posts and continuous load paths down to footings.
- Rough openings must be framed to tight tolerances so door systems operate smoothly.
We coordinate with door and window suppliers to confirm rough opening sizes, head heights and thresholds, reducing surprises at installation time.
Details That Affect Finish Quality
Many finish issues can be traced back to framing details. To protect the quality of your finished home, we pay attention to:
- Stud straightness and alignment in high-visibility walls.
- Blocking at cabinets, handrails, shower doors and heavy fixtures.
- Levelness and flatness of floors where large-format tile or hardwood will be installed.
- Backer for tile, stone and specialty finishes at fireplaces, niches and feature walls.
Taking the time to frame for finishes makes subsequent trades more efficient and reduces callbacks later.
Framing Coordination With MEP Trades
As a design-build contractor, we know framing can’t happen in a vacuum. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems all need space — but that space must be carved out without weakening structural members.
Our process includes:
- Pre-walks with MEP trades before rough-in starts.
- Clarifying which beams, studs or joists can and cannot be drilled or notched.
- Creating chases, soffits and dropped ceilings where needed to conceal systems.
This collaboration keeps the house structurally sound while still giving trades the pathways they need.
House Framing on Your Next Project
Whether you are planning a new build in Studio City, a hillside custom in Beverly Hills or a full remodel in Sherman Oaks, the quality of the framing will shape how solid the home feels for decades.
Call R Builders, Inc. at 1 (800) 520-5008 or visit our Contact page to schedule a consultation about your custom home framing and structural needs.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace project-specific structural engineering, plans or professional advice. Always consult with licensed professionals and follow local building codes for your specific project.
