I agree with the idea that the first work in a project is a general layout, where details such as actual framing don’t need to be addressed, and changes are simple to diagram or model. It’s an interesting experience to model a framework and cladding. Professionally we don’t usually do it, unless the framing is unique or particularly elegant. We know how the framing and other parts will go together overall, and eventually work out the specific details that the builder will need.
If you already know the design, and want to go into a framing model, I’d suggest making a plan of the building that has the framing lines with which you can locate the plates, with the posts or studs, and openings, as well as the sheathing and finish cladding. This plan can be grouped and assigned its own tag so you can hide it or show it for reference as you work. Grouping different elements such as the wall framing and cladding, allow you to work cleanly, as revisions take place.
Yes, without plugins, you won’t have automatic rebuilding of your framing with changes to the overall size of the building, not in SketchUp; but with groups, components, and tags you can organize the work you do in those cases.
