What term describes the horizontal member that supports vertical wall members?

The term that describes the horizontal member that supports vertical wall members is known as the sole plate. The sole plate serves as the base that anchors the wall studs, providing stability and strength to the structure. It is typically attached to the floor and serves as a foundational support for the vertical framing elements, ensuring that the wall structure is securely attached and properly aligned.

In contrast, the top plate is located at the top of the wall and holds the tops of the vertical members together, while joists are horizontal structural elements used to support floors or ceilings. Beams, on the other hand, are larger horizontal members used to support loads generally spanning wider areas. Understanding the role of these components helps in assessing their importance in building construction and framing.