Framing Inspection Checklist

The effectiveness of an inspection checklist is directly proportional to the completeness of the contents of the field it is trying to inspect. A more complete Framing Inspection Checklist could provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the framing elements in a building; thus, every problem in the nook and cranny is always inspected. A Framing Inspection Checklist should include the items listed below.

Documentation and approvals

This constitutes the needed documents and approvals required for the compliance of Approved Document A. The checklist should contain the availability of IFC drawings, verification of the latest structural drawings, approved calculations, site memos, and approvals from relevant authorities. Providing these documents assures that there is enough evidence for compliance with Approved Document A Requirements.

A checklist of the structural stability of the vertical load path

The building's vertical load path consists of elements that are responsible for transferring vertical loads to the ground. The checklist items should include checking the continuity and alignment of columns, evaluating load-bearing walls and structural members, verifying the connection of walls and floors, and ensuring that beams and joints are supported with the correct bearings. Checking these items ensures that these members would avoid warping, which could lead to structural collapse.

A checklist of the structural stability of the horizontal load path

Structural elements that handle horizontal loads are responsible for distributing loads evenly to elements that handle vertical loads. They ensure that no vertical structures—like walls and columns—will receive excessive loading, which could increase the chances of warping.

The checklist items for checking lateral stability should include checking if the joist spacing is consistent and joists are properly fixed to supports or hangers, evaluating if beam-to-column connections are secured, ensuring that there is no unsupported framing, and verifying if lintels are installed and bearings are correct.

Floor framing checklist

Floor framing is part of the horizontal load path structure that also provides a platform for people and objects to stand on. They act as a horizontal diaphragm, which is important for wind resistance and earthquake stability. The Framing Inspection Checklist should integrate items that verify if the joist layout matches with the approved design, evaluate if joists and trimmers are installed where they are required, ensure that there is no excessive trimming and drilling, and determine if subfloors are securely fixed and leveled.

Roof framing checklist

The primary function of a roof frame is to provide support to the roof. It mostly handles loads from weather elements, especially those that accumulate on the roof (water and snow). The checklist should include verifying if trusses are complete, in accordance with design, and installed correctly. Additionally, the checklist should also assess if the ridges, purlins, and collars are installed properly, determine if continuity is achieved on roof diaphragms, and ensure that the load path from the roof to the walls and foundation is intact.

Ensuring compliance with fire, moisture, and durability provisions.

A building needs to be protected from elements, such as fire and moisture, to prevent the deterioration and damage of its structural elements. Without these protections, a building could be more prone to dangerous situations, such as a structural collapse. To prevent this, the Framing Inspection Checklist should determine if framing elements are protected from prolonged moisture, verify if corrosion-resistant fixtures are used, and ensure that fire protection elements are installed in wall and floor cavities.

Ensuring ground movements are considered

Finally, the Framing Inspection Checklist should always account for ground movement. Ground movements can cause significant disruption to load balancing, which can lead to structural collapse. The checklist should include verifying that there are no signs of settlement affecting framing, determining if wall and floor frames are always aligned, and ensuring that there are no gaps, separations, or misalignments in all framing elements.