Walls are the linear compositions of timbers that run parallel to the ridgepole and bents are the major structural elements perpendicular to the walls. A simple frame might contain three or four bents, two walls, a floor system on one or two levels, and a roof system inclined toward the center equally from each wall. It could be this simple, but there is also no limit to how complex each system might be. The vertical members of timbers are posts, struts, and studs. Struts can also be inclined and are used in the roof system as a secondary support for rafters.
Studs are secondary posts primarily used as nailers or decorations.
Girts are the horizontal members in bents or walls that span between major posts. Sills support the post bottoms at ground level, while plates support rafters, and girders are major beams that run between sills. Inclined members are generally rafters or braces. Function and location further refine the identification of most pieces in the frame. Therefore there are bent girts and connecting girts, roof purlins and wall purlins, principal rafters and common rafters.