To facilitate the installation of baseboard, crown, or other molding, what should be provided at the ends during framing?

When installing baseboard, crown, or other types of molding, it is important to provide blocking at the ends during framing. Blocking refers to the short pieces of wood installed between the studs, usually placed horizontally. This creates a solid and secure surface for attaching moldings, which is particularly beneficial at the ends of walls or corners where additional support is necessary.

Using blocking prevents the molding from bowing or cracking after installation, ensuring a clean, professional finish. It also allows for easier and more precise installation, as the moldings can be secured to the blocking rather than relying solely on the studs, which may not always fall in the desired locations for installation.

While headers, studs, and bracing are important components in framing, they do not provide the specific support needed for securing moldings at the ends. Headers are typically used to support structures over openings like doors and windows, studs provide vertical support for walls, and bracing adds structural integrity to prevent bending or twisting but does not serve the same functional purpose as blocking in this particular scenario.