When selecting king studs for building construction, choose kiln-dried lumber labeled as #1 grade and free from defects, knots, and twists. Avoid pressure-treated wood and check for signs of fungus or mold. Select the correct size to ensure consistency.
A real stud is one of the most important framing members in building construction. These studs support tremendous amounts of weight and pressure from the other frame members in the wood frame home. Usually placed on either side of an opening, such as a window or door, the king pin should be solid, free from defects, straight, and dry. When choosing the best king studs for your project, inspect the lumber well for these qualities.
Most wood frame buildings are constructed with yellow or white pine posts. Pine grows profusely and is cheap and easy to work with. Unfortunately, wood can hold moisture for long periods of time, and so most lumber producers kiln dry their lumber before distribution.
Framing lumber is labeled as air dried (AD) or kiln dried (KD). It is best to select KD, as AD lumber retains about 15 to 25 percent of its moisture, making it unsuitable as framing lumber. As the moisture in the wood evaporates, the wood fibers shrink, causing the stud to twist and warp. Kiln-dried lumber retains only 8 to 10 percent of its moisture, shrinks very little, and is a much better choice for king stud lumber.
Avoid pressure-treated wood. This type of wood is injected with a toxic blend of preservatives. While this wood is weather resistant and durable, it is usually very wet and tends to warp severely over time.
Sawmills also grade their wood by numbers. Number 1 is the highest grade for lightweight structural lumber. The kingpin is one of the most important and supportive members of the frame, so he selects number 1, also labeled as #1. 1, for best results.
Check the stud lumber for any defects, knots, bows, twists and crooks. Large knots and black or discolored areas imply damage to the tree or damage during production. Avoid lumber with fungus or mold, as these spores can reproduce inside wall cavities if introduced to moisture.
To check for twists, bows, and cheaters, place one end of the kingpin on a flat surface. Bring the other end of the pin up towards the eye. Look down at the pin and note any twists, bumps or bulges. A small crowning, or bow in the center of the stud, is normal, but avoids serious crowning and other faults. Avoid real stud lumber with cracks or signs of stress from manufacturing or drying.
Finally, select a king pin of the correct size. Most studs are mass-produced at about 7,719 feet (about 2.35m), but are available in varying widths. Pay close attention to the size of the pins you purchase to ensure consistency and avoid frustrating returns to the home improvement center.
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