Framing contractors are the skeleton crew that transforms your blueprint into standing walls and roof structures. Understanding exactly what they do—and what gets included in their estimates—can save you thousands in unexpected costs and scheduling headaches. Let's break down the scope of work and what to expect when hiring a framing contractor for new construction.
What Framing Contractors Actually Build
A framing contractor's primary job is erecting the structural framework of your building using wood, steel, or a combination of both. This includes exterior walls, interior partition walls, floor joists, roof trusses or rafters, and all the blocking and bracing that holds everything plumb and square. They're not finishing carpenters—they're not installing trim or drywall. They're the ones who ensure your building won't lean, sag, or twist over time.
For wood-frame construction (the most common in residential and light commercial), framing typically starts after the foundation is cured and waterproofed. The contractor will deliver lumber to site, lay out wall plates, cut and install studs, set headers over openings, install rim board, erect walls, and then move to floor systems and roof framing. The entire framing phase usually takes 4–8 weeks depending on building size, complexity, and crew size.
What's Included in a Framing Contract
Materials vs. Labor
Most framing contractors provide labor only—you (or your general contractor) supply the lumber and materials. However, some offer turnkey packages that include materials. If materials are included, expect to pay $8–$15 per square foot for wood frame residential work; labor-only pricing typically runs $5–$12 per square foot depending on regional rates, project complexity, and current material costs.
Standard Framing Scope
A typical framing contract includes:
- Wall framing (exterior and interior studs, headers, backing)
- Floor systems (joists, rim board, blocking, and bridging)
- Roof framing (trusses, rafters, collar ties, bracing)
- Temporary bracing and shoring for safety and stability
- Layout and material handling on site
- Cut-outs and rough openings for windows, doors, and utilities
- Building to code (International Building Code or local equivalent)
What's Usually NOT Included
- Windows, doors, or hardware installation
- Drywall, insulation, or exterior sheathing (sometimes offered separately)
- Plumbing, electrical, or HVAC rough-in coordination
- Site cleanup and debris removal (confirm this upfront)
- Structural engineered connections or specialty fastening systems (often billed extra)
- Changes or modifications after framing begins
Red Flags When Getting Estimates
Ask contractors whether they provide layout drawings or work from your architect's plans. Any reputable framer should review plans in advance and flag potential issues—missing details, conflicts with building code, or sequences that won't work. If they just say "yeah, we'll figure it out," that's a sign they lack experience or attention to detail.
Get confirmation on who handles utility coordination. If your electrician or plumber needs rough-in access during framing, the framing contractor needs to know this ahead of time and schedule accordingly. Last-minute coordination kills timelines.
Verify whether the estimate includes site-specific costs like difficult access, challenging soil conditions, or snow removal. These add real money and are often overlooked in initial quotes.
Timeline and Scheduling Considerations
Framing crews typically work Monday through Friday, sometimes Saturday depending on the contract. Weather delays are common in wood framing—rain can halt work for days in some regions. Your contract should clearly state how weather delays affect the schedule and final payment.
Expect the contractor to request payment in phases: a deposit (usually 10–20%), progress payments as milestones are reached, and a final payment upon completion and inspection sign-off. Don't pay in full until the framing inspector approves the work.
How to Compare and Choose
Get at least three detailed estimates, each specifying scope, timeline, crew size, and payment terms. Check references—call two or three past clients and ask about punch-list items, cleanup, and whether the crew showed up on schedule. Verify licensing and insurance; framing contractors should carry general liability and workers' compensation.
Mercoly makes it easy to compare trusted framing contractors in your area, read verified reviews, and request quotes—all in one place without fielding a dozen phone calls yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I hire a framing contractor directly or go through my general contractor? A: Most homeowners work through a general contractor who manages subcontractors, including framers. Direct hiring works if you're acting as your own GC and comfortable coordinating schedules and inspections yourself.
Q: How do I know if a framing contractor is building to code? A: Your local building inspector will review the framing during inspection (typically after the roof is on and before drywall). Choose contractors with a clean inspection history—ask for references from recent projects that passed first inspection.
Q: What happens if the framing contractor damages existing structures or utilities during work? A: This should be covered under their liability insurance, provided they didn't violate the contract scope. Confirm insurance limits before signing and document any pre-existing damage with photos.
Compare framing contractors on Mercoly today and get your foundation framed right.