What is a grouping of short studs above or below openings in walls called?

A grouping of short studs positioned above or below openings in walls is known as cripples. These studs play a crucial role in providing support to the frame around windows and doors, helping to transfer the load from the upper structural elements appropriately. Located above a window or door opening, the cripples help support the header, while those below the opening are installed beneath the sill. This arrangement enhances the overall stability and strength of the wall structure, ensuring that the weight loads are effectively distributed.

Understanding the function of cripples is essential for anyone involved in home inspection or construction, as they are a vital component in maintaining the integrity of wall assemblies around openings. The incorrect options refer to different structural elements: bracers provide additional support for framing, jacks (or jack studs) are vertical framing members directly supporting a header, and sills refer to the horizontal framing member at the bottom of a window or door opening. Each serves a distinct purpose within the overall framework of a building, but the specific term for the short studs above or below openings is indeed cripples.