What term describes the vertical stud running from the top to the bottom plate on either side of a window or door?

The vertical stud that runs from the top to the bottom plate on either side of a window or door is referred to as a king stud. King studs are essential in framing because they provide structural support and help to carry the load from the headers above the opening to the bottom plate of the wall. They extend the full height of the wall and are positioned on the outer edges of the window or door opening, working in tandem with the header to distribute weight.

In contrast, the jack stud, which is sometimes confused with the king stud, is a shorter stud that supports the header over the opening. Cripple studs are shorter sections that fill the space above or below windows and doors between the header and the top plate or the bottom plate. A rim board, on the other hand, is used at the edge of a floor or roof system but does not function in the same capacity as the vertical studs around a door or window. Understanding these terms is critical for proper framing techniques and ensuring the structural integrity of construction projects.