The term "wall plate" refers to a horizontal framing member that is located atop a building's masonry walls, and typically supports the roof structure. This term is pronounced with a short "a" sound for the first syllable, and the "a" in "plate" is pronounced in a long "a" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /wɔl pleɪt/, with the first syllable being pronounced as "wawl" and the second syllable being pronounced similar to the word "slate."
A wall plate is a horizontal structural component or support used in construction and building design. It is typically made of wood or metal and is installed horizontally on top of a wall, running along its length. Wall plates are commonly found in timber-framed or load-bearing structures such as houses, where they provide support to the vertical studs or posts that make up the framework of the building.
Wall plates serve several important functions in construction. One of their main purposes is to distribute the weight and load-bearing forces of the roof or upper floors evenly across the walls, ensuring structural integrity and stability. They also act as a base for connecting the vertical studs or posts, providing a secure anchoring point for joints and connections. In addition, wall plates often serve as an attachment point for other construction elements such as ceiling joists, rafters, or floor beams.
During the construction process, wall plates are typically installed before any other building components. They are positioned directly on top of the foundation or lower wall, serving as the starting point for the vertical framing. Wall plates are carefully leveled and secured to ensure they remain stable and provide a uniform surface for attaching the remaining framework and structural elements. Overall, wall plates play a crucial role in supporting the load and weight of a structure, contributing to its stability and strength.
The word "wall plate" primarily refers to two different things: a horizontal structural member used in construction or a decorative plate hung on the wall.
1. In the context of construction, the term "wall plate" originates from Middle English and Old English. The Old English word "plat" meant "a flat or broad piece", derived from the Proto-Germanic root "plat-" meaning "flat". Over time, "plat" eventually evolved into the word "plate". In construction terminology, a "wall plate" is a horizontal timber or metal beam that runs along the top of a wall, supporting the roof or floor joists.
2. Regarding the decorative "wall plate" used for display and aesthetics, the term "plate" is derived from the Old English word "plætt", which was derived from the Latin word "plattus" meaning "flat".