What is the best practice for framing a foundation?

The best practice for framing a foundation involves squaring the corners first and bracing them. This approach ensures that the foundation is distinctly level and properly aligned, which is crucial for the overall stability and integrity of the structure. When the corners are squared, it sets a reliable reference point for the entire framing process, allowing for accurate measurements and angle consistency as the rest of the framing is completed.

Bracing helps to support the corners during construction to prevent movement due to external forces or settling. This step is essential because any misalignment at the foundation stage can lead to complications and structural issues in later stages of the building process.

The other methods mentioned might offer certain efficiencies, but they don’t provide the same foundational integrity. Starting with the middle section could lead to uneven stresses and misalignments down the line. Framing from the top down wouldn't support the necessary structural stability required at the foundation, while using pre-fabricated sections may not be effective in ensuring exact specifications for alignment and stability without squaring the corners initially. Thus, squaring the corners first and bracing them is the most reliable and effective practice for framing a foundation.