Balloon framing is a traditional wood-framing technique in which the wall studs run continuously from the foundation or first-floor sill plate to the roof or second-floor ceiling. Intermediate floors are then “hung” from the tall wall studs using ledger boards or ribbons. This method was widely used in residential construction in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What is Balloon Framing?
Unlike modern framing methods, balloon framing involves long, continuous framing members (studs) that extend from the base of a structure to the roof. This creates a vertical continuity that differs from the platform framing method (today’s standard), where each floor is built as a separate framed platform with shorter wall studs stacked floor by floor.
Balloon framing was revolutionary because it required less heavy timber and joinery than post-and-beam construction. It could be built faster, with more uniform lumber and nails, during the expansion of American housing in the 1800s.
Key Characteristics of Balloon Framing
- Wall studs run uninterrupted from the foundation to the roofline.
- The upper-level Floor joists are supported by ledger boards nailed to the studs.
- Typically uses 2×4 or 2×6 lumber, but requires longer lengths than platform framing.
- Results in tall wall cavities, which can span two or more stories.
- Often includes fire blocking or horizontal members installed between studs to reduce fire risk and increase rigidity.
Advantages of Balloon Framing
- Vertical Uniformity: Offers uninterrupted wall cavities, ideal for tall stairwells, vaulted ceilings, or continuous windows.
- Structural Efficiency: Provides continuous vertical load paths, reducing potential shear stress at floor transitions.
- Aesthetic Flexibility: Allows smoother transitions between floors in open, tall spaces like churches, lofts, or older farmhouses.
Disadvantages and Limitations
- Lumber Sourcing: Requires long, straight studs (often 20 feet or more), which are more expensive and more complicated to source today.
- Fire Risk: Tall wall cavities can act as chimneys during a fire, rapidly spreading flames between floors unless fire stops are added.
- Labor Intensity: More care and skilled labor are required to install floor ledgers and align long studs accurately.
- Less Common Today: Largely replaced by platform framing due to cost, safety, and efficiency.
Balloon Framing vs. Platform Framing
| Feature | Balloon Framing | Platform Framing |
| Wall Stud Length | Continuous (1st floor to roof) | One story tall (per floor) |
| Floor Construction | Floors hung from wall studs | Built on top of each framed floor level |
| Fire Risk | Higher without fire blocking | Lower due to floor separation |
| Cost | Higher due to longer lumber | More economical and efficient |
| Labor | Requires more expertise | Easier to build with modern techniques |
Where is Balloon Framing Used
While largely outdated for new residential builds, balloon framing may still be:
- Encountered during renovations of historic homes or heritage buildings
- Used in tall, narrow infill projects where vertical continuity is structurally beneficial
- Preferred in specific architectural scenarios requiring open, continuous vertical space
In restoration projects, knowledge of balloon framing is essential for preserving structural integrity while integrating modern updates.