Don't Frame Like an Idiot

Framing your skoolie is your chance to set the rest of your build up for success and maximize your returns on the insulation you'll be installing. This conversion step is key for off-grid, vanlife, and camping happiness.
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#skoolie #offgridliving #busconversion

[@jankarel6454]

When I watch your videos, I am reminded over and over of the difference between people who "create content" and people who actually provide valuable information and share their wisdom with viewers. You are definitely in the second category. I really appreciate you making things understandable for all the people--like me--who lack experience but still want to do good work.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Jan, thank you! that is totally my goal and it means a lot to have you see that. hope to see you around here!

[@miniskooliewanda]

You took the words out of my mouth. Very informative and valuable advice (I only wish this had been shared BEFORE I did my framing haha). Thanks Chuck!

[@drgranger2]

I have 40 years in the trades, but didn't build busses for a living .... always learning something at Chucks Academy.

[@theway5563]

Chuck has an abundance of critical thinking skills. He takes reasoning to a entirely new level. This method of framing a bus is nothing short of brilliant.

[@clintonjgardiner]

These videos really really put reality into focus. These are big projects. But this videos are priceless honestly.

[@Gemmycobson]

As far as I’m concerned this series is the holy bible for people looking to build a skoolie conversion. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experience with us Chuck and the gang.

[@JohnSmith-wb6kq]

Totally agree bud 🙂

[@kathrynwilliamson8631]

Helpful to any automotive build. My van is better for it! 😊

[@TJNC1976]

Watching this is like watching This Old House ...only this is for building skoolies lol

[@lutherpalmer6605]

"Never mind the confetti from the party we threw in here," is probably the best line I've ever heard in a camper van tutorial video.

[@felicitous48]

Does anyone else watch his videos with rapt attention, paper and pencil to take notes? His videos save so much suffering through trial and error! I take notes like I'm back in school and want an "A."

[@marchills4131]

Damn. I'd call you the Bob Villa of bus conversions, except that unlike the original host of This Old House, you clearly know exactly what you're talking about and have personally put these techniques and philosophies to use. Practical knowledge, the ability to teach it to others, and entertain along the way, is a rare combination indeed. You have those characteristics in spades and I feel very fortunate to have found your channel!

[@craigtherriault]

You will probably never read this but i think you are a credit to your profession. I have learned so much from your videos it's hard to watch others. The video on the 70k conversion that you showed all the incorrect methods used shows your honesty and integerity. Sharing your 8 years of experience is an example of what a true American professional is/ was. Thanks for everything Chuck, especially exposing the company that stole that poor lady's 70k

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

I really appreciate this comment thank you!

[@EmmaBuildsBirbie]

love the "what not to do" series, hate how it always seems to perfectly describe what I did 😂

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Emma! I've followed your journey and I love it. Believe me, I've done it wrong too ;) thanks for watching

[@NoRegrets.]

This Old House of Buses. Your knowledge , your excellence in making it understandable to all levels of skill excels above all other content creators. Thank you for outstanding videos that will still be relevant 10 years from now. You should definitely have your own tv show.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you very much!

[@elgringoec]

He's got the voice, too!

[@StuffedTacos]

My thoughts exactly!

[@law_wren]

Yes that's exactly what I'm reminded of, thanks for unlocking that core memory!

[@LiruScarrrbauu]

Buna cu respet mult si onoare la video ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@sparenothing1487]

That's the most informative 24 minutes I have watched in a long time! Thank you for making it easy to understand!

[@mira-sturdivant]

what a relief to find someone who actually knows what they're doing before trying to teach others. and knows how to teach, too! that's a skill in itself. thank you!!!!!!!!!

[@vanmanjeff]

Thermal bridging is far too often, overlooked in the van/skoolie community. I’m glad you put together a video that explains it a bit. Nice job

[@ClassicCaillouUTTPTHDTC-o5z]

I will be framing like an idiot. Lol I’m a 42 yr old single mom with 4 kids. So I’m praying when I’m driving my entire build doesn’t crumble

[@mkowltra]

Super helpful! No one’s videos go into the detail on tools and fasteners, and techniques. You saved me a lot of figuring out time,

[@BillButtrill]

I only wish I watched this a year ago. Slicing the 3/4 plywood makes so much more sense then the crappy 2x4s I bought. Good stuff!

[@episodicandfilmsy]

I’ve been lost and confused on how to build out my conversion and now I feel I won’t waste time or money making it happen! Thanks for being one of those people who can do ANYTHING and help educate us all!

[@lexilouwho8200]

Digging the "This Old House" vibes. Great video, thanks!

[@shawnr771]

Nice work and descriptions. This is one of the best explanations of thermal bridging.

[@shawnmolden5541]

I’ve been watching hours of Skoolie content to prepare for my build. You hit everything I want to know in your videos, whereas others don’t answer. It’s clear you’re incredibly knowledgeable. From what brand of material to use to how to do it for best results, THANK YOU

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Glad to help, good luck!

[@karatheriault6715]

Your Amazing!Thank you for sharing all this knowledge. You are so thorough. Love your videos. I am 62 years old and going to attempt to do my own build because of you. Only because of the quality of your videos that I feel I can attempt it. Thank you for all you do !

[@kentonbouman1790]

Did you do it

[@milesoroads]

I knew I put off building the bus for a few years for a reason,just was waiting for you to post these videos.

[@terryryan4106]

Great video chuck, your the most knowledgeable builder of these types of builds on KZbin. Just a little personal insight limit dragging your knees all over the floor, they’re going to hurt like hell when you get old. Keep the up the good work

[@kristenvincent3622]

Up until ten years ago “I don’t need no knee pads… 🙄” and now I’m waking up at two AM when it rains to take anti inflammatories! Lol good advice

[@reesefuckingwhitney]

You’re literally the most valuable thing I’ve ever found on KZbin. I have a stock 40’ 2001 gmc bluebird I will be converting using ALOT of your tips and tricks I do truly appreciate your existence

[@viperstinger77]

Chuck, you should really look into teaching workshops as you travel around this will generate revenue to help support you...a no-brainer. Thank you for all you do for us humbly appreciate it. 10 people per workshop $100 pp 2hour session you can't really go wrong.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Great idea!

[@michaelosmon]

I named my dog chuck. He was my best dog I ever had and the only dog in my life I ever named myself. I never heard of you until a moment ago but I subbed when you tossed the 2x4. Looking forward to seeing more. I appreciate you

[@timklassen421]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with your fellow you tubers .

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

My pleasure!

[@TheDogsBox]

This guy knows what he is talking about. I progressed from framing carpenter, to cabinet maker, to engineering degree. This guy is providing good information. I am about to start my Ambo conversion and I will be subscribing and seeing what other gems he has to offer.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

thank you and thank you for watching!

[@1ThoughtMonster]

another wonderful episode of "This Old Bus" thanks Chuck 👏

[@thedanman1182]

Watching your videos sure reassures me that I have, for the most part, done everything correctly. I am a first time builder but I do have building experience and I am aiming for the build best that I can create. Thank you for your videos and I learn new tricks every time I watch.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Great to hear!

[@MobileDwellings]

We're so lucky to have you here on the KZbins!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭❤️❤️❤️

[@maryzell4750]

Okay you are by far my best resource for our dome getting upgraded. This portion is so brilliantly explained and with the understanding of insulation too...yeah! You are a domesaver! Not just buses does this apply to but also those of us who own metal geodesic domes. Game changer! Thanks again Chuck!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Now that is a title I'll carry proudly! Love a good dome. Enjoy it for me!

[@mmsmits2868]

Great tips. I can definitely vouch for the clamps. I built a pool deck around an above-ground pool by myself using 2x8s, and those 12-footers get very heavy. A clamp and a scrap piece of wood was all that was needed to keep the board right where I needed it. Clamps are indispensable! Have an awesome week!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Clamps rule!

[@Dovietail]

I love the BIRCHWOOD BEAUTY canned ham look ceilings and walls. Such gorgeous, golden wood.

[@darangemaster1]

Anytime you can learn how to do things from someone else’s mistakes/experience it’s a win! The wood to metal screws you speak of are excellent I’ve used them several times to replace lumber on car/utility/horse trailer floors and they are excellent. I use to get buttloads of wool from ranchers and other folk repairing trailer floors when we had our ranch .

[@livi62502]

This came out at the PERFECT time for my husband and I!

[@what_the_mike]

I so appreciate these videos. I’m still in the demo stage (and will be for some time), but it’s great to have a preview of the most thermally efficient and practical construction methods to deal with issues I will encounter.

[@MatthewRobertHenry]

Such a great video dude! That clamp tip at then end was solid gold! Haha, would have saved me some struggles for sure. And blocking the toe nailer under the chair rail is genius! Wish I'd thought of that. Ah well, at least in my bus's final layout there is very little of that, that isn't built over with cabinets and built in furniture. Thanks for skooling us dude!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

YEAH BUDDY!

[@darangemaster1]

hey chuck been using those screws for years to attach ply and dimensional lumber to flatbed trailers they work excellent i like this framing method very much

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

They're the best! thanks for watching

[@Myriah360]

I tried to find where to buy those wood to metal screws and haven't had much luck. Where do you get yours?

[@alyssanash3248]

I absolutely joyed this video. I have been researching skoolies for when I do my own build and since I have no idea what to do for construction I was happy to find your video so helpful. I love that you put things into perspective for the average Joe. I truly understand what you're talking about and I can help relay it back to my boyfriend for when we do our build. I'm looking forward to seeing more videos!

[@tristanlasley8030]

My man, I appreciate you, your videos, and your smile. I'm not goin anywhere man. -your fellow viewer

[@sesolar5854]

Funny I just discovered the wood to metal screws yesterday at Lowe's while shopping for decking screws and thought "how awesome these will be when I get to framing the inside of the bus...not quit there yet. Keep um coming Chuck and thank you!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

They rule, thanks for watching!

[@mitchballantyne4318]

Mate. Ur content is so great. I have a 38 ft hino school bus in Australia and I will b using your videos to create my masterpiece. Thank u so much

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

AWESOME!

[@FieldToTableOutdoors]

Literally saves so much effort on learning all of these tips and tricks the hard way. Thank you!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thanks for watching!

[@soapywooder]

THANK YOU! I'm about to do this on my bus and I'm SO glad I saw this before starting. A lot of skoolie content creators I watch are first-time builders. They make entertaining content that got me into building the bus in the first place, but you just got a new subscriber bc I need to be watching how you build your buses as I'm actually building mine lol

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

It's definitely a journey worth sharing so I get why those folks do it, but gosh we've learned a lot and have a lot to share and that's why I started this!

[@guitarplayer4life17]

Ain't no way that PERFECT 2x4 came form the 'Depot. We got damn crazy straws at mine.

[@justabanana5497]

I never wanted to build out a bus becuase I always thought peoples framing & insulation system were not very good. Your system has changed my mind a lot and I don't have as much fear to build out a van now! the plywood framing system is very clever given the busses strong base metal framework.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you!

[@Iam-BruceLee]

Valuable info here Chuck. Appreciate your willingness to share. Very helpful! 🍻

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thanks for watching!

[@doncobb9504]

Excellent information. You have been our inspiration and our guide.

[@TheSerenityhuck]

Some honesty here. I feel like you are the only channel/person on KZbin that us DIY skoolie builders should be listening to when it comes to figuring things out on the fly. Of course, reading journals and codes would be valuable as well, but you go through the trouble of breaking it down for us plebians. Not only do you go through the how-to, but explain why on top of that which is extremely important. No lifestyle branding bulls**t, no nonsense, just the vital info. Honestly the skoolie community, online anyway, is oversaturated with branding bulls**t and "how-to's" that only serve as repetitive lifestyle content. It's exhausting to encounter when I have an issue I need help with. I am going to be redoing my ceiling with your framing method as a key part of this re-do. It's too late for my walls, but at least I put them together mostly correct according to your method. You are doing this community a huge service, please keep it up. Thanks man.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

joshua thanks so much for appreciating what i do. i really want these videos to help folks out as much as I can. glad you're here !

[@thudang5298]

The tip on the screws alone was worth a sub, and then some! Thank you! About to enter into my long awaited, longer planned, and even longer still (I'm sure) journey of building out the "perfect" (for me) vehicle for what we need. Was debating rivnuts but seeing other people's trials on using the product and using it well - this just seems like a very good, potentially cheaper alternative. Appreciate you sharing the content! Like some others have said, way better to see content from doers, not just people making a video for clicks.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

thank you and thanks for subscribing

[@garywilliams7484]

I am working on a cargo trailer conversion. I used the same style of framing. Costs less and works better then solid wood.

[@rickharris5485]

That was probably the best how-to video I've ever seen. Please continue to bless KZbin with such great videos. Subscribed.

[@John_Mcgrane]

thank you so much about the thermal bridge very helpful in warmth and time and materials

[@nboudreaux07]

So glad I found you! I just bought my first bus a month ago and I’m remodeling well not sure if remodel is the word lol but I tore everything out that was done in it. I am also new to alll woodworking so I watch many videos. You are a wealth of knowledge!! Waiting to watch this one!!

[@MatthewRobertHenry]

Congrats and welcome to the Bus world!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Welcome!! stay around!

[@nboudreaux07]

@@MatthewRobertHenry Thanks!!

[@nboudreaux07]

@@ChuckCassadyYT Thanks! I will!

[@aptexotics4216]

I didn’t realize how recent these videos were posted. No wonder I’ve been missing out on such great information! My bus is halfway gutted and I was worried I wouldn’t have the resources to built it back up properly. Thanks Chuck for always bringing value in a concise and thorough manner.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thanks for watching!!

[@appleseedontheroad2296]

Another awesome video! Thank for the straightforward information with all materials needed and without a pile of fluff…get the info, hit the hardware store, and back to building for me. Changed my floor prep plans based on your suggestions and boy is going to cut down on my time and effort. Thank you!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

GLAD ITS HELPIN!

[@DavidSanchez-rs5bw]

Incredible video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@1life2pono]

Thank you for this video! Super helpful and instructional.

[@jasonbecker4974]

You know your stuff, and you certainly know how to teach. So grateful. Thank you. 🙏🏼

[@bobyoung1698]

I learned a lot from this video, not only about framing the interior of a school bus but about smart carpentry. I once worked for a major manufacturer of recreational vehicles. I was in marketing but spent some time in the plant because I found it interesting. That spray foam insulation is wonderful but just make certain that it's not flammable and doesn't emit fumes that would annoy people with allergies. Thanks!👍

[@bemccune7671]

This is brilliant. I've seen so many people with great ideas and and lovely builds, but this really shows experience and knowledge beyond the norm! Thanks for sharing so much with the community 💜💜

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you for tuning in! It's all for you

[@nmartin5551]

I’ve never thought about doing a school bus. The Sprinter van is taking me too long, but I subscribed to you channel just because the information is just plain good! Thanks!

[@mmcclain1252]

So happy i found you! Tysm ❤

[@Willow-of-the-Wind]

😂😂😂 Right outta the gate, dad jokes 😂 it’s really funny since I’ve been fuming about the poor quality of lumber for thirty five plus years. No, I won’t tell you how old I was then 😂😂😂

[@ToConnect2000s]

I absolutely love the "Teks self drilling wood to metal screws" I've used these since day 1

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

they're the best

[@ShadowMoonFarms]

That "lesson" was absolutely wonderful. Clearly explained with the reasoning behind everything. I understood it all and am so much better prepared as I move forward on my van build. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@nancycook3733]

I've been framing for yrs, and I have to say the way ur going about definately is alot better adds more structure, and your right when putting in the metal screws "speed and heat" are #1 killer of the screws with the augur blade tips, and also pre drilling also helps, great work love the videos helps from seasoned guys like myself to guys I know whom are clueless really helps them build thier confidence and knowledge levels, thank you for videos and best explained techniques tricks and tips !

[@onwardbound]

You make everything look so easy! But best of all, you make it so incredibly easy to understand and follow. I'm just starting my framing stage and you saved me so much time and trouble - can't wait to apply these ideas now! Thanks for sharing your considerable expertise and skills with all of us!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Lynette, that means the world to me. Thanks for being here

[@kenknaell1290]

Chuck - I have never done construction or buss work but do some machine shop work. It is very informative to see such good logic applied to your projects. Also great video production. You deserve another Margarita :>).

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you Ken!

[@sarahdaniels1429]

I have noticed that about the quality of wood I have been seeing! Thank you for bringing that up, it makes such a difference.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

You're very welcome!

[@annalisajames6558]

This was amazingly helpful!

[@bgtyhnmju7]

Good vid man. Always like watching ya.

[@briandavis9975]

Thanks Charlie great info I like the uses of the plywood over individual stick lumber great way to break the thermal bridge your a smart man brother can't wait to see what's next keep them coming.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thanks brian!

[@chrisallen2005]

Outstanding presentation.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you!

[@philforder7810]

Chuck!!!!!! I don't have to tell you that your work is phanominal!!!! I am a 64 year old Canadian mobility challenged man, who can still drive but instead of a truck, it will be my home on wheels.😂is a Thinking skoolie! I know it would be shocking if you had one for sale???? If not how long would it take to ftpurchase one, and how much would that cost?

[@benjaminrhodes9611]

Hey Chuck, this video was randomly in my recommendations, and the first time I've seen your stuff. After seeing your standards and methods in just a few minutes of watching, you've earned my subscription. It's refreshing to see an independent guy with practical knowledge, building buses (or vans) to a high standard. Thanks for sharing. Keep up the good work.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thanks Benjamin! That means a lot to me

[@ammocandoit]

Superb tutorial my man! Thank you very much 🤭

[@jesseunderwood5353]

100% up my alley. Technical and useful. You earned a sub there and I’ll use your channel throughout my conversion journey

[@ZeroEntropy.]

You do a REALLY amazing job! Thank you so much for everything you do to help the community!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

That means a lot to us out here. Thank you

[@GirdHerd]

Very helpful, Chuck.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

thank you!

[@foodstamp6952]

Hi! my name is Cory! I did alot of carpentry and currently own a small business.. As I have gotten older, I've gotten bored with life and decided to take a gypsy path. Ill be subscribing and watching once or twice a week to get information as I don't have knowledge of busses.. You make alot of sense. I hope to save for a gently used bus and be done in two years. Breaking free and becoming financially free of debt etc... Please keep it up.

[@unimog404]

Finally someone doing the way I'm building it! Great to see more people get how it is doen right!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Looks like you've got a cool rig!

[@rray3630]

nice work. Tip about the " helper "clamp will help a lot of people .

[@tamarahart2936]

I just love your channel it’s definitely informative and giving me all the inspiration that I need to start my bus build. Thanks so much for sharing 💕

[@74132dave]

Thank you Chuck! Another excellent lesson.

[@57z]

another great video. I love your approachability to the topics you've been covering lately and honest sage advice.

[@theway5563]

He certainly is a sage - master mind, actually.

[@TheRougeChef]

Very informative.. I'm in the planning phase of my bus build, though this will be my second build. I will definitely be framing out this way!! Thanks.... Mad Respect

[@zjames1324]

You have a great talent for clearly conveying this information, thanks for making such an awesome resource

[@yenyenmcsherry9795]

Thanks Chuck!

[@tobywhitney4798]

We are talking about doing this. Thanks for all the videos and pro tips. If not it would take us forever to do this.

[@jameslockman3584]

So I used your advice on the screws in this video and the framing technique... My screws are not going through the steel... Little frustrated right now it's not your fault... This video is great as others I've seen of yours... So I'm going to have to try a different technique ... Not pushing as hard but firm is my next option thank you for your videos...😊

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

not sure what to tell you, ive alwasy had greak luck with the Teks brand screws

[@joeblow1942]

2:00 Instead of using regular crappy twisted 2 x 4’s for frames / studs…. he uses 3/4” thick ACX plywood ripped 2” wide and doubled up so it’s 1 1/2” thick x 2” wide. 4:47 He uses Teks self drilling wood to metal screws w/ Torx heads to attach 1 1/2” x 2” plywood frames (“strapping”) discussed above to the vehicle. 7:15 He uses 1 1/4” wood screws w/ Torx heads to attach the second course / layer of 1 1/2” x 2” ACX plywood to each other. He countersinks / pre-drills each hole first. 9:08. He discusses what Thermal Bridging is and how to avoid it. (Wood has an R Value of only 1 per inch.) 21:09 Find the centerline of the ceiling and snap a line from front to back. There could be deviations so check with a tape measure as you install your ceiling material. 21:51. Use Pony Clamps as a helping hand to lay / rest the bottom of your frames / strapping on to as you screw it in.

[@Tony-123]

Your best video yet !!!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Glad you think so!

[@sheri6750]

Wow ! I’m building a bus 35 ft all American by myself. Takeing me for ever due to broken rib and sprained back . But not giving up! I’m so damm stubborn I want things done right. Everyone says to just slap it together……. Not a carpenter I’m a bartender. So Your building style and explanation on how to is comprehensive even for my ADD brain! Thanks

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

i appreciate that!

[@Wanderboom]

This is MUST watch instruction for everyone building their own skoolie!! Great job!!

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Thank you for watching!

[@karylm23]

Chuck, not gonna lie, i could watch a couple hours of this straight. You really have a noob like myself convinced i could embark on a journey like this and be successful.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

That's the goal my friend!

[@wayneowens4761]

just want to ditto the last two comments, a Journeyman's level of knowledge shared in a very good way. Yes the little things are what makes a good and efficient job.

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

i truly appreciate that :)

[@TheThompson2x]

I’d be interested in seeing a video on the ceiling systems you’re referring to that uses the front to back strapping instead of typical tongue & groove etc.

[@iirenemcquay8129]

Thank you it makes so much sense now I love your explanation of it

[@ChuckCassadyYT]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rutabega2039]

One downside that any variety of plywood has is that you can't reliably run screws into the side of it (you can do it but they won't hold as well as screws run in through the front and even with 3/4" plywood it can be tough to land a screw dead center). For framing the overhead storage compartments in my bus, I ended up using an unusual material: 1" thick pine stair treads ripped on a table saw into 2" wide strips. Stair treads are a laminated/composite material kiln-dried and then re-milled to the 1" thickness, so they're perfectly flat and straight with no knots of any kind, and you can run framing screws into them from any direction and they don't split even without pre-drilling pilot holes. And it's much easier to center a screw in a 1" thickness than in 3/4". For my cabinets, I was also able to rout a 3/16" inset along the edges and face the cabinets with 5mm underlayment plywood.

[@wanderlusttheshuttlebus]

You are a wealth of knowledge. So much gratitude to you Chuck!