A day in the life of a framer.
Framing carpenters put together the wooden structuralparts of new houses and other mainly residential structures. It’s acollaborative profession that demands skill, strength, creative problem-solvingabilities and communication between framers.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
Skills you’ll master as a framer include
- Basic math
- Ability to read and follow plans/blueprints
- Measuring and planning
- Knowledge of building codes
- Ability to lift and carry heavy pieces of material or structures
- Use of saws, nail-guns and other power tools
- Use of various hand tools
- Forklift and work truck operation
Tools you’ll need
Framers are responsible for buying and looking after their own tools.
These typically include:
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- Framing Hammer
- Tape Measure
- Nail Puller
- Eye Protection
- Level
- Carpenter’s Square
- Hard Hat
- Work Gloves
- Safety Boots
- Carpenter’s Pencil
- Utility Knife
- Chisel
The total cash outlay for these ranges between $200-$300.
Be sure to invest in quality gear.