Which wall component is also known as a draft stop?

• A. Cripple
• B. Blocking
• C. Header
• D. Stud

Answer: (B)

Draft stops are barriers inside concealed wall cavities that slow air movement and help contain fire. The way to create a draft stop is by installing blocking—short pieces of lumber placed between studs to subdivide the cavity. These blocks interrupt the continuous space, stopping drafts and contributing to fire containment. The other terms describe structural members with different roles: a cripple is a short stud above or below an opening, a header carries load above openings, and a stud is a vertical frame member. None of those are used to stop drafts in the cavity the way blocking is.