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After the foundation has been laid for either commercial or residential buildings, the next logical step is framing the building’s structure. A framed structure basically refers to any material stabilized by a skeleton that can support itself as a rigid structure without relying on walls and floors to prevent deformation. Most commercial buildings use metal for framing, but residential houses rely on wood. There are two main types of framing methods: platform and balloon framing.
A common question in the construction industry is what are the main differences between the two framing methods? In this article, we will discuss the fundamentals of balloon and platform framing, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each construction method.
What Is Platform Framing?
When the risks associated with balloon framing became apparent in the 1930s, the housing industry was quick to come up with an alternative framing method. Also known as stick framing, platform framing is the most common framing method for residential construction. It involves creating a frame by utilizing uniformly sized pieces of lumber such as 2x4s. This framing method is common in parts of Europe and rural Canada where wood is inexpensive and plentiful.
The method derives its name from framing each floor level as a separate unit or platform. It is similar to balloon framing but with a few key differences. It uses shorter pieces of timber, which cost less per foot than longer ones. Also, platform frames can be constructed without relying on scaffolding.
It is a more efficient construction method because it allows builders to construct some wall systems in a modular manner. This allows the builder to use the first floor as a stepping stone from where to build the next floor, and so on. It makes platform framing a much easier and faster method. After the horizontal frame is built, you can proceed to install roof joists and rafters to complete the structure. Usually, floor and ceiling joists, and wall studs are added after every 16 or 24 inches, starting from center to center.
What Is Balloon Framing?
This framing method in building constructions was mostly used to build homes from the late 19th to mid-20th century. It is often associated with Queen Anne in the USA and Canada. Each floor was built with long floor-to-ceiling panels, which later were replaced with a timber-framed foundation to serve as a base for the next floor.
Unfortunately, balloon framing has since declined as builders began to utilize new framing techniques that were more efficient and faster. However, it was in the late 1950s that balloon framing began to disappear entirely in favor of platform framing which is still the standard even today.
Balloon Framing Construction
Building with a balloon frame involves creating a wooden structure with ligaments holding it together. The vertical studs connect the whole height of the structure from the foundation to the rafters. This framing system replaces heavy columns and beams with several long and continuous posts which run from the floor to the roof.
It also utilizes intermediate inserts for horizontal elements to pass through. The elements are then connected to create doors, windows and openings that are different from the floors of the building.
The balloon framing technique uses less timber material than platform framing, which allows you to save more money especially if you are working with a strict budget. It also doesn’t require dexterity in carpentry skills. All you need are basic knowledge and woodwork skills to build the frames from scratch. You also don’t need specialized labor, masons, or crate operators to build structures with a balloon frame. You only need some hand tools, and a large forklift to create a practical and functional framing structure.
