balloon frame

American  

noun

1. a wooden building frame composed of machine-sawed scantlings fastened with nails, having studs rising the full height of the frame with the joists nailed to the studs and supported by sills or by ribbons let into the studs.

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Etymology

Origin of balloon frame

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

If you erect a balloon frame yourself, which you can easily do without the aid of a mechanic, it costs the price of the materials and whatever value you put upon your own time.

From Woodward's Country Homes by Woodward, George E. (George Evertson)

Of further interest in Shaw's plate is the dress of the workmen and the balloon frame of the house under construction.

From Woodworking Tools 1600-1900 by Welsh, Peter C.

In the balloon frame the timbers are held together entirely by nails and spikes, thus permitting them to be put up rapidly.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 5, Slice 4 "Carnegie Andrew" to "Casus Belli" by Various

They are built of wood, balloon frame, with a plain pitch roof, without ornament.

From Woodward's Country Homes by Woodward, George E. (George Evertson)

The moment the foundation is prepared, and the bill of lumber on the ground, the balloon frame is ready to raise, and a man and boy can do all of it.

From Woodward's Country Homes by Woodward, George E. (George Evertson)