Planning a do-it-yourself remodeling project requires that you understand a few basics of home construction and building terminology. For general reference, use the models shown while planning your project.

If you plan to modify exterior walls, you must determine if your house was built using platform- or balloon-style framing. The framing style of your home determines what kind of temporary supports you will need to install while the work is in progress. If you have trouble determining what type of framing was used in your home, refer to original blueprints, if you have them, or consult a building contractor or licensed home inspector.

Balloon framing is identified by wall studs that run uninterrupted from the roof to a sill plate on the foundation, without the sole plates and top plates found in platform-framed walls. Balloon framing was used in houses built before 1930, and is still used in some new home styles, especially those with high vaulted ceilings.