What is a Framer?

Framing carpenters put together the wooden structural parts of new houses and other mainly residential structures. It’s a collaborative profession that demands skill, strength, creative problem-solving abilities and communication between framers.

Framers usually arrive at the jobsite around 6-7am, beating rush-hour traffic. There, they are joined by fellow framers and other tradespeople – electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, etc. – each playing a specific role in bringing a new building to completion.

Most framers work a minimum of 40 hours a week. If your employer is busy, you may be asked to work 12-15 hour days and even weekends – for which you’ll collect higher overtime pay. While the long hours are physically demanding, the job satisfaction is top-notch. With good overtime, a framer who has completed their four-year apprenticeship can easily make a six-figure annual salary. Not too shabby for someone in their early twenties.

Contrary to office workers, framers spend their day outdoors, selecting, measuring, sawing, fitting and hammering together wood joists, studs, planks, trusses and panels. As a team, they periodically lift and fasten floor and wall assemblies into place. Framers also collaborate with other trades to facilitate efficient builds.

Jobsites tend to be informal and lively, with constant back-and-forth banter and joking among co-workers. It makes the day go fast and keeps the job fun, varied and exciting. Those with a sense of humor are highly valued!