INTRODUCTION

Laborers who understand a few basic principles of engineering, mensuration, and lay out will be able to do a better job framing the more important structural members of buildings. This includes:

* positioning and aligning members accurately

* recognizing critical load paths

* assuring adequate bearing

* avoiding weakening cuts

* making effective connections

* providing adequate but not excessive nailing

* spotting and correctly using defective material

* placing material so as to use its greatest strength

* erecting safe and economical temporary framing

This understanding can add to the quality and economy of LFC work performed for Our Savior and LCMS congregations.

Here is a legal disclaimer: By law, competent Engineers or Architects must review the design of permanent load-bearing structural members and their connection details. This Primer is only intended to acquaint Laborers with a few fundamental technical concepts, thereby exposing the need for Professional assistance in questionable or complex situations.

Never-the-less, framing and structural problems often arise during construction, and need to be dealt with quickly to avoid work delays. They may occur for several reasons, such as unforeseen difficulties in remodeling projects, the need for temporary scaffolding or supports, or even because of incomplete or poorly conceived architectural plans or revisions. When the latter happens, it may be possible to provide solutions that will keep the work going in anticipation of a design professional’s review. Knowledge of a few fundamental engineering principles will help reduce delays and improve the utilization of time and materials.

Laborers for Christ should also understand and correctly use building terminology to effectively communicate with architects, suppliers, contractors, and with each other. Speaking the same language helps the building process. Remember the project at Babel? They were doing quite well until the Lord confused their speech. Let’s try to use proper terminology and use it correctly. After all, He does not want our projects to fail like theirs.