What is the term for the horizontal member located at the top of a wall frame?

The term for the horizontal member located at the top of a wall frame is the top plate. The top plate serves several important functions in the construction of a wall. It is designed to distribute the load from the roof or upper levels down through the wall structure. Additionally, the top plate provides a mating surface for the roof rafters or trusses, helping to tie in the upper part of the wall and ensuring lateral stability.

In residential construction, the top plate is generally laid horizontally across the tops of the vertical studs that make up the wall frame. This configuration is crucial for creating a sturdy and properly functioning wall assembly.

Understanding the role of the top plate is essential for carpenters and builders, as it contributes to the overall structural integrity and design of a home. Other terms like soleplate, header, and ceiling joist relate to different components of a building frame, with distinct purposes that do not align with the definition of the top plate.