Abstract: A framing template for use in the framing of a building structure. The template has a plurality of groups of printed measuring indicia, each measuring indicia comprising a centering mark. The centering marks for each group have a predetermined spacing therebetween. The centering marks of each group may include numbers, colors or shaped symbols indicative of a repetitive measured distance from a zero reference point of the template. The centering marks also include indicia indicating the total distance the centering mark is from the zero reference point. The numbers are readable regardless if the template is secured on a horizontal or a vertical surface. In another broad aspect, the present invention contemplates permanently affixing the template, such as with printing, on building materials requiring measurements for integrating into the building structure.

Abstract: A grooved construction lumber element for use in constructing lumber structures such as wall framing, roof trusses, load bearing beams, deck and stair railings, and the like, is described. The construction lumber element is comprised of a straight lumber piece having a plurality of spacing grooves disposed in at least one surface of the lumber piece. The spacing grooves have a predetermined depth and are configured to receive therein an associated further lumber element to construct a specific building structure. At least some of the spacing grooves are disposed at common spaced intervals. The lumber element is preferably an elongated straight wood lumber piece of rectangular cross-section and defines opposed flat parallel surfaces and opposed flat parallel side edge surfaces. The spacing grooves are formed in one of the flat surfaces.

Abstract: A framing template for use in the framing of building structures. The template has a plurality of groups of printed measuring indicias. These groups of indicias are disposed at predetermined intervals from one another and have a center marking and associated side markings. The markings of each group may be numbered or colored markings or have shaped symbols indicative of repetitive measures from a starting point as well as cumulative measures. The markings are readable regardless if the template is secured on a horizontal or a vertical surface of a building component to indicate the location of building components. In another broad aspect the present invention contemplates a measuring template which is permanently affixed, such as with printing, on building materials requiring measurements for integrating into a building structure.

Abstract: A composite wood joist for the construction of building structures is comprised of an elongated straight main member and a transverse elongated web piece connected thereto. Both the main member and the web piece are of rectangular cross-section with the web piece being secured along a narrow flat end face of the main member. The web piece is dimensioned and disposed to extend beyond the opposed flat side faces of the main member to define opposed wing sections. The web piece also has a width which is narrower than the width of the main member and it provides an arresting force against longitudinal distortion of the straight elongated main member and improves the load bearing capacity thereof.