In framing, what is typically the first item framed?

• A. The walls
• B. The floor
• C. The roof
• D. The stairs

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that the floor sets up a flat, level base for everything else in framing. Building the floor first creates a stable platform (the floor system with joists and subfloor) that determines level, height, and alignment for the rest of the structure. With a true floor in place, walls can be framed accurately and plumb to that reference plane, ensuring door and window openings line up and the structure sits squarely. Once the walls are standing, the roof can be framed atop them, and stairs can be added to connect the levels. Without a proper floor first, subsequent framing would lack a reliable baseline.