How to Build the End Walls of an A-Frame Cabin
Framing, Waterproofing, Installing Windows and Doors, and Drying in the Cabin
By Jim Jorgensen – Solo Jim Outdoors
Watch the Complete Build
If you'd like to watch this stage of the project before reading, here's the complete build video from my YouTube channel.
Turning a Structure Into a Cabin
Once the roof was complete and the floor system was installed, it was finally time to close in the front and rear of the cabin.
This was one of my favorite stages of the project because the cabin finally started feeling like a real home instead of a construction site.
The end walls transformed the open A-frame structure into an enclosed space that could soon be protected from the weather.
Open A-frame before end walls.
Framing the End Walls
Unlike the repeating A-frame trusses, each end wall required careful planning and individual framing.
Every opening had to be measured precisely before cutting the lumber.
We framed:
- Door openings
- Window openings
- Wall framing
Because the walls would eventually support our windows, doors, and glass wall, accuracy was extremely important.
Taking your time during this stage makes installing everything else much easier.
Framing the end wall.
Installing the Wall Sheathing
Once the framing was complete, we installed OSB sheathing over the entire wall.
The sheathing stiffened the wall and provided a solid surface for weatherproofing.
At this point, the cabin really began to look complete.
For the first time, you could clearly imagine what the finished exterior would become.
Wall sheathing installed.
Waterproofing the Exterior
Before installing windows and doors, we waterproofed the exterior.
This protective layer is one of the most important parts of the building envelope.
Even a beautifully built cabin won't perform well if water finds its way behind the walls.
Taking the time to properly weatherproof everything now helps protect the structure for years to come.
Always follow the recommendations for the waterproofing products you choose and pay special attention to sealing around openings.
Weather barrier installed.
💡 Jim's Tip
Don't think of waterproofing as a finish step.
Think of it as cheap insurance.
A few extra minutes sealing openings now can prevent expensive repairs later.
Installing the Windows
The windows we used were actually leftover units from projects at my day job.
Rather than buying brand-new windows, we were able to save a significant amount of money by reusing materials we already had available.
To better match the cabin, I scuffed and spray-painted the exterior frames black.
At the time I wasn't sure how well the finish would hold up.
Several years later, I'm happy to report they still look great.
Sometimes simple solutions work better than expected.
Installing windows.
Installing the Door
We also found the entry door through Facebook Marketplace.
Buying a quality used door allowed us to stretch our budget while still ending up with a finished product we were happy with.
One of the biggest themes throughout this project was looking for opportunities to save money without sacrificing quality.
The door became another example of that philosophy.
Installing the entry door.
Drying In the Cabin
With the windows and door installed, the cabin was finally dried in.
That moment felt like a huge milestone.
From this point forward, we could begin focusing on finishing work instead of worrying about the weather.
We added the siding and window trim and stained it as we went. The trim and siding really gave the end wall a complete look.
We then added cedar planks to the soffits. We bought them as cut-offs on market place for cheap and it really finished out the eves nicely.
If you've ever built anything outdoors, you know how satisfying it feels to finally close in a structure after weeks of working in the elements.
Finished end wall.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, a few things stand out.
- Frame every opening carefully.
- Waterproof before installing finish materials.
- Look for quality surplus building materials.
- Don't overlook used windows and doors.
- Small savings add up over an entire build.
Building an affordable cabin isn't just about doing the work yourself.
It's also about making smart decisions with your budget.
Continue Building
➡️ Next Step: Installing the Storefront Glass Wall
⬅️ Previous Step: Floor System and Insulation
🏡 Return to the Complete A-Frame Guide
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