a. Top Plates. A horizontal member of a partition or frame wall is called a top plate. It serves as a cap for the studs and a support for the joist, rafters, and studs. Top plates tie the studs together at the top and ensure that the studs are aligned. They provide support for structural members above the plates and also provide a base for the roof rafters which tie the roof and walls together. To be effective, top plates should be doubled at the top of the walls and partitions and should have their joints staggered. (Double top plats are discussed in paragraph 2-9.)

b. Sole Plates. Use a sole plate (with dimensions not less than the studs) where the walls do not rest on a sill, girder, or beam. Install the studs or corner posts at intervals that are evenly spaced except where partitions or walls are intersected.