On the Level

Spent the evening sorting out the framing dilemma. Trying to work around existing structure that's nowhere near plumb, or level, or square, or even straight is quite the challenge. I'm making extensive use of my shiny new four-foot level and carpenter's square to try and figure out just what I should be doing. I'm also using screws to fasten everything, which has already allowed me to undo several attempts at setting studs. This job would be impossible without that level - it's as important to framing as a pry bar and a good deal of anger is to demolition. The anger is somewhat less useful to framing... I've used it to find square, plumb studs, check for lowest points, raise sagging woodwork, and make sure the wall is straight. Brilliant.

I've finally settled upon a design, which is modified only slightly from the last one.

The main difference is that one of the 2x4 supports will extend all the way up to the top plate of the wall. The exception to this is the support on the far left, which will actually be behind the stud wall running perpendicular to the wall in the diagram, so these won't have drywall hanging from them. I've also decided against mechanical anchors to secure the sole plate to the floor, and will instead use 3.5" concrete nails every two feet. The studs on the far right of the wall will actually sit exactly 1.5" away from the stair stringers - just enough space to put another stud in behind, perpendicular to the wall studs, which will be used to support the wall along the stairs, and the stringers themselves.

Way too much thinking for a Monday night.