Which term describes the upright post in the framework of a wall that supports sheets of lath and plaster or wallboard?

• A. Purlin
• B. Truss
• C. Stud
• D. Ridge

Answer: (C)

In wall framing, the vertical member that carries the wall coverings is called a stud. These upright studs run from the bottom plate to the top plate and provide the structural support for lath, plaster, or drywall, plus a place to nail the wall material. The other terms describe different structural members: a purlin is a horizontal roof beam, a ridge is the top edge where roof slopes meet, and a truss is a complete roof or floor framing assembly. So the upright wall member that supports wall coverings is the stud.