Top Framers Near You

What Is A Framing Contractor

A framing contractor specializes in constructing the core structural framework of buildings, creating the essential skeleton that supports all other components. These professionals assemble wood or metal frames for walls, floors & roofs according to architectural blueprints.

Critical responsibilities of framing contractors include:

• Reading & implementing construction blueprints with precision
• Measuring & cutting framing materials to exact specifications
• Assembling structural frameworks for walls, floors & roofing systems
• Collaborating with architects & engineers on design implementation
• Ensuring compliance with local building codes & safety standards
• Making necessary structural adjustments during construction
• Installing support beams & foundation elements

Framing contractors work at various stages to establish the building's fundamental structure. They coordinate with multiple construction professionals to maintain proper alignment, structural integrity & design specifications throughout the project.

How Much Do Framing Contractors Charge

Cost Per Square Foot

Framing contractors charge between $7 and $16 per square foot for standard residential projects, including labor and materials. A garage addition costs $4 to $5 per square foot, while complex two-story homes or structures with multiple roof lines range from $10 to $19 per square foot.

Labor Costs

Labor expenses for framing projects comprise $4 to $13 per square foot of the total cost. Here's a breakdown of typical labor costs:

Material Costs

Wood framing materials range from $3 to $6 per square foot, contributing to the overall project cost. This pricing includes:

• Dimensional lumber
• Plywood or oriented strand board (OSB)
• Metal fasteners
• Support brackets
• Structural connectors

• Project size
• Design complexity
• Material selection
• Geographic location
• Building codes
• SiteAccessibilityy

How do I estimate the cost of framing?

Cost Factors to Consider:

• Square Footage: Larger projects require more materials and labor hours
• Project Complexity: Custom designs increase labor time and material requirements
• Material Selection: Wood grade and quality affect material costs
• Location: Regional labor rates and material availability impact total costs
• Site Access: Difficult-to-reach areas increase labor time and equipment needs
• Building Codes: Local requirements influence material and construction specifications

1. Measure the total square footage of the project area
2. Multiply the square footage by the average cost range for your project type
3. Add 10-15% for unexpected materials or complications
4. Include permit fees based on local regulations
5. Factor in additional costs for custom features or design elements

What is included in rough framing?

Rough framing establishes the core structural elements of a building through three essential components:

Structural Framework

• Vertical posts supporting weight distribution
• Horizontal beams connecting support points
• Load-bearing elements maintaining structural integrity
• Metal or wooden skeleton forms the building's backbone

Wall Framing

• Vertical studs at 16-inch intervals
• Top plates securing upper connections
• Bottom plates anchoring to foundation
• Door frame rough openings
• Window frame rough openings

• Floor joists supporting floor loads
• Support beams distributing weight
• Subfloor installation
• Multi-story level framing
• Foundation attachments

Each component integrates precisely with others to create a solid structural foundation. The framework is an anchor point for additional building elements like insulation, drywall, utilities, doors, windows & exterior finishes.

Properly installing these components creates the essential skeleton supporting all other construction phases. Precise measurements, level surfaces, and square corners during rough framing ensure the proper fit of finish materials.

How many studs are in a 20-foot wall?

A 20-foot wall contains 16 studs when using standard 16-inch on-center spacing. This calculation includes the end studs and intermediate supports required for residential construction.

Standard Spacing Requirements

Residential construction uses 16-inch on-center spacing between wall studs. This measurement spans from one stud's center to the adjacent stud's center, creating consistent support points throughout the wall.

Stud Count Calculation

The mathematical formula for determining stud count follows these steps:

1. Convert wall length to inches:

• 20 feet × 12 inches = 240 inches

1. Calculate spacing divisions:

• 240 inches ÷ 16 inches = 15 spaces

1. Add end stud:

• 15 spaces + 1 = 16 total studs

• Door openings requiring jack studs
• Window frames needing additional support
• Corner connections requiring three studs
• Intersecting walls needing backup studs

What's next after framing a house?

Mechanical rough-ins follow the framing stage of house construction. These installations include three primary systems:

1. Plumbing Installations

• Water supply line placement
• Drain pipe routing
• Fixture rough-ins for bathtubs
• Shower unit preparations
• Vent stack positioning

1. HVAC System Setup

• Ductwork installation
• Vent placement
• Air return positioning
• Furnace location preparation
• Central air system routing

1. Electrical Components

• Wire routing through walls
• Ceiling wire placement
• Floor electrical pathways
• Outlet box installations
• Light switch positioning

Additional rough-in installations include:

• Media wiring for entertainment systems
• Gas line placement for appliances
• Fireplace venting systems
• Security system wiring
• Smart home technology infrastructure

Building inspections occur after completing these mechanical rough-ins. Inspectors verify compliance with local building codes for each system before construction proceeds to the next phase.

How long should it take to frame a house?

House framing timelines vary based on square footage, design complexity, and crew expertise.

Framing Timeline Based on House Size

Factors Affecting Framing Duration

Square Footage Impact:

• Smaller homes require less framing time
• Larger homes demand extended construction periods
• Multiple floors increase project duration

Design Elements:

• Complex roof structures extend timelines
• Multiple interior walls add framing hours
• Custom architectural features require additional time

Crew Efficiency:

• Experienced teams complete projects faster. Precise role distribution improves productivity.
• Team coordination affects completion speed

• Weather conditions influence work progress
• Material availability impacts scheduling
• Site accessibility affects the construction pace

• Four skilled workers frame a standard two-story house
• Six workers complete larger residential projects
• Teams coordinate tasks based on project zones

Metal or Wood Framing?

Metal and wood framing each offer distinct advantages in construction projects. Choosing these materials impacts durability, maintenance requirements, and project costs.

Durability

Metal framing provides superior resistance to:

• Fire damage
• Termite infestation
• Structural warping
• Mold growth
• Rotting

Wood framing requires additional considerations:

• Regular maintenance checks
• Moisture control measures
• Pest prevention treatments
• Temperature regulation

Cost Factors

Steel framing costs more upfront than wood but offers reduced maintenance expenses over time. Material selection depends on:

• Project budget
• Building location
• Structure type
• Local climate conditions
• Building codes

Energy Efficiency

Wood framing delivers natural insulation properties that enhance energy efficiency. Metal framing conducts heat more readily, requiring additional insulation materials to achieve equivalent thermal performance.

Installation Considerations

Metal framing installation features:

• Lighter material weight
• Precise cutting requirements
• Specialized tools
• Technical expertise

• Standard carpentry tools
• Flexible modification options
• Traditional construction methods
• Simpler repairs

How much do framers make?

Framing carpenters earn different salaries based on experience level:

The average framing center salary ranges from $31,000 to $56,342 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings, with urban areas offering higher compensation. For example, framing carpenters in New York City earn an average hourly rate of $24.31.

A framer's hourly rates average:

• $19.36 for general construction
• $19.46 for residential projects
• $24.31 in metropolitan areas like NYC

These rates reflect standard industry compensation for professional framers who construct structural frameworks for buildings, including walls, floors, and roofs. Experience, location, and project complexity determine the exact pay rate within these ranges.