Stick Framing
This simply refers to a construction method using wood materials for framing the structure. This method typically uses 2×4 or 2×6 dimensional lumber spaced 16″ or 24″ apart. Stick-built construction is generally allowed for structures up to five stories.
Putting “Stick Framing” in Context
Southern Grove Development, a small but ambitious real estate development company, has acquired a 20-acre parcel in suburban Jackson, Mississippi, to build Willow Pines Estates, a 40-home single-family residential community. The project targets middle-income buyers seeking affordable new construction homes in a growing market.
Project Overview
The homes in Willow Pines Estates will range from 1,800 to 2,400 square feet and feature 3-4 bedrooms with attached two-car garages. Southern Grove has chosen stick framing as the primary construction method for this project due to its cost-effectiveness, ease of on-site customization, and accessibility of skilled labor in the region. Stick framing will allow the use of standard 2×4 dimensional lumber spaced 16″ apart for exterior and interior walls, a common approach in single-family home construction.
Why Stick Framing Was Chosen
- Affordability: Lumber is a relatively inexpensive material, helping the developer meet cost goals while keeping home prices affordable for buyers.
- Flexibility: Stick framing allows for easy adjustments on-site, a critical factor when building homes with diverse floor plans.
- Availability: Most contractors in suburban Jackson are experienced in this construction method, ensuring smooth project execution.
Example in Action
Each home will feature:
- Exterior walls built with 2×4 lumber spaced 16″ apart.
- Roof trusses constructed with 2×6 lumber for additional structural strength, accommodating the region’s occasional severe weather.
- Traditional sheathing and insulation materials paired with the framing for energy efficiency.
The estimated cost of framing a 2,000-square-foot home in the development is approximately $20,000 per home. This includes labor, lumber, and ancillary materials such as nails and fasteners. By leveraging stick framing, Southern Grove anticipates achieving total construction costs of approximately $180 per square foot, enabling competitive pricing in the $350,000–$400,000 range per home.
Lessons from the Project
The use of stick framing in Willow Pines Estates illustrates how this method remains a practical choice for residential developers. Its simplicity and adaptability make it suitable for suburban projects where rapid construction and cost containment are priorities.
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