House Framing - Handy Reference Guide to Success

Whether you're undertaking a building or renovation project, robust framing is crucial for structural strength and durability. This foundational step requires careful planning to avoid all potential problems down the line and ensure building stability. Where to begin, you ask? This complete guide serves as your checklist as you work through the design stages and execute your project. You’ll find all the information you need to complete your project seamlessly, covering all aspects, such as material selection, budget planning, or necessary standards.

Before Jumpstarting Your Framing Project

Before initiating a project of this complexity, the first step is to understand the fundamental techniques, available materials, and current regulations. As a homeowner, your choice of framework— timber, steel, or glued-laminated timber—will significantly influence both the overall project cost and the structure’s durability and performance.

Framing Project Keywords

To fully grasp the challenges ahead in a house framing project, it’s essential to master certain technical terms. Here are key concepts to understand to familiarize yourself with framing components:

Platform Framing or Stick Framing

Platform framing consists of prefabricated timber or steel components, often used for new homes. It’s typically more cost-effective and fast to install compared to conventional wood framing.

King Post

This is the vertical beam positioned in the middle of the frame, which is a key part of the structure supporting the ridge beam (the highest horizontal roof beam).

Purlins

Purlins are horizontal beams supporting the roofing. There are several types of purlins, such as the common purlin, purlin plate, or principal purlin, which ensure the structure’s sturdiness, redistributing loads.

Rafters

Rafters are inclined beams that shape the roof’s slope, redistributing roofing loads toward the foundation.

Mortise and Tenon

This is a traditional wood framing assembly method, allowing to secure two timber beams without the use of nails or screws.

House Framing Project Planning: Q&A Section

When dealing with a framing project, planning is paramount. Homeowners must consider several aspects to ensure the outcome of their projects and avoid unforeseen circumstances. So ask yourself the right questions to efficiently structure your approach.

Complete Overhaul or Partial Renovation?

Before jumping in, it’s important to determine the extent of the work needed. There are two common options: a complete framing overhaul or partial renovation.

Complete Overhaul

This option is often warranted when the framework is severely damaged, whether on account of insect infestation (termites), extreme moisture-caused deterioration, or lack of upkeep. If your roof shows signs of significant warping or sagging, then a complete overhaul is in the books. This sort of project typically calls for replacing, in full, the purlins and the rafters. 

When it comes to a full renovation, one has to budget between $200 to $300 per square foot. Said cost can include dismantling the roof, replacing materials, and labour.

Partial Renovation

If some parts of a house’s framework, such as the purlins and rafters, are still in good condition, considering a partial renovation is perfectly fine. The latter could include replacing damaged parts and carrying out a moisture and parasite prevention treatment. Doing so cuts costs while extending the framing’s lifespan. 

For a partial renovation, budget between $60 to $120 per square foot, based on the materials and job scope.

When Is the Best Time to Reframe a House?

The best time to build or renovate framing hinges on the weather. Summer and spring are great periods to carry out such jobs given that the forecast typically calls for dry weather, those favourable to working with materials like timber.

Since timber is prone to moisture-related damage, it’s best to avoid working during the fall or winter. Moreover, extreme weather conditions, such as snow and heavy rainfall, can lead to significant delays, increasing costs and complicating the worksite.

How Long Will the Work Take (Assuming Everything Goes as Planned)?

The job duration varies based on project complexity. A partial renovation won’t take as long as a complete overhaul or building new framing. 

During a partial renovation, construction time can be anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the extent of the renovation and the size of the house.

As for a complete overhaul, expect the work to last anywhere from a month to two months, especially if the roof is completely taken apart and rebuilt. Said timeframe can be affected by unforeseen circumstances, such as hidden structural defects or unfavourable weather conditions.

Do You Need a Building Permit When Renovating Framework?

In most cases, a building permit is required, particularly if the project affects the house’s load-bearing structure or alters the exterior facade. Be sure to contact your municipality about project formalities and obtain the necessary authorizations. Bear in mind that building permit processing time can vary, ranging from weeks to several months.

Establish a Detailed Budget for Your Roof Framing

Setting a Budget: How to Calculate Costs

Budget planning is crucial to ensure that your house framing project is unfolding as expected. It’s essential to consider several aspects, such as materials, labour, and the unexpected. Putting together a realistic budget will help homeowners bypass unforeseen circumstances during the course of the project.

What Is the Best Type of Framing: New Steel or Timber (Wood)?

Material selection will have a direct impact on the framework’s total cost and durability. Here are the three most common types of house frames:

Labour

Labour costs will also be a significant part of your budget. Rates vary by region and project complexity, typically ranging from $50 to $100 per hour. For complex projects involving steel or glued-laminated (glulam) frames, it’s best to consult with several experienced professionals.

Hiring skilled carpenters, particularly for timber structures using mortise and tenon connections, ensures greater durability and safety for both residential and agricultural buildings.

Contingencies

Unforeseen circumstances surrounding a framing renovation project are almost a certainty, especially when dealing with aging wooden structures, traditional roof trusses, or compromised load-bearing walls. Also, experts recommend planning for a 10–15% buffer in your overall budget to cover all unexpected repairs, such as replacing trusses or reinforcing knee braces.

Having some headroom in your budget can also help you manage changes mid-way through the project, such as finishing the attic or making the necessary changes to an agricultural building, which often requires greater load-bearing capacities.

Available Financial Aid

When renovating a frame, whether it’s roof or structural framing, knowing what kind of financial assistance is available is essential to reduce job costs. Whether you’re opting for conventional or steel framing, several programs have been established in most Canadian provinces to support home renovation projects. These incentives include tax credits and specific grants, particularly for energy-efficiency home improvement projects:

• Multigenerational home renovation tax credit (MHRTC)

• Rénoclimat program

• Canada Greener Homes Initiatives and Canada Greener Homes Grant

Why Are Financial Incentives Essential?

During a renovation project, framing work can incur significant expenses, especially when you’re hoping to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Thanks to grants and tax credits, you can reduce renovation costs while ensuring the work completed abides by the latest energy-efficiency standards. However, regularly checking the terms and conditions of eligibility is recommended, as these are likely to change year after year or depending on where you live. Also, it may be a good idea to reach out to local authorities to ensure city-specific grants are available. By opting for these financial assistance opportunities, you can maximize your savings by adopting practices that are beneficial to both your bank account and the environment. 

Framework Renovation

House Framing Construction Standards

In Canada, house framing is done under a strict building code, ensuring safety and load-bearing capacity. Here are some key standards to meet:

Load-bearing capacity: Your framework has to withstand loads from snow, wind effects, and roofing materials.

Fire protection standards: In certain provinces, namely in Quebec, timber-framed houses must be fireproof to meet regulations regarding fire protection standards.

Moisture-proof: Framework, notably timber frames, must be protected against moisture to prevent rot and insect infestations.

House Framing Renovation Steps

Initial assessment: A complete analysis of the structure’s frame can reveal areas or parts needing repair or replacement.

Dismantling: If necessary, the roof structure has to be taken apart, allowing total access to the framework.

Reinforcement or replacement: Damaged parts are either reinforced or replaced with new beams, purlins, or rafters.

Additional protection: The timber is treated against parasites and moisture, and all metal parts are protected against corrosion.

Project Delivery

What Should You Look Over?

When approving the work commissioned, it’s essential to check that the roof structure meets current standards and is built according to the detailed plans established. The latter also includes checking that the right materials were used, whether dealing with steel or conventional framing, as well as expected load-bearing capacity, especially for houses in storm-prone areas.

Compare the Job Done with the Plans and Quote

Make sure all planned items in the itemized quote have been completed. Check that the materials used correspond to those detailed in the initial contract.

Equipment Testing

Equipment load testing ensures the framework is properly secured and can withstand the weight of the roofing and external loads, such as snow and the effects of the wind.

Warranty

Warranty Duration

It’s essential to request a warranty against the work done. Typically, the ten-year warranty covers structural defects for a period of 10 years.

Terms and Conditions

Make sure you thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of the warranty. They typically cover hidden defects and defects compromising the structure’s integrity.

Useful Advice for Tackling a Renovation Project

How to Choose a House Framing Contractor

Choosing the right professional is crucial to guarantee the outcome of your framing project. Either a qualified carpenter-roofer or framing contractor can provide expert-level services. Here are some criteria to consider during your decision-making process:  

Certifications: Make sure the hired expert holds the necessary certifications like any green building certifications.

Experience: Focus your energy on contractors with solid experience with similar projects. A minimum of 10 years of experience is typically a good quality indicator.

References: Request references from potential contractors and check online reviews. If possible, get in touch with former customers to assess the quality of their work.

Insurance: Make sure the hired contractor has liability insurance and a ten-year warranty. Having some sort of liability protection is essential to cover all construction defects or accidents.

Quote comparison: Requesting several quotes for comparison purposes is advised. Make sure every quote is detailed and considers all important items.

How to Keep Track of the Job Site

Closely monitoring the progress on-site is indispensable to guarantee the quality of the outcome and on-time deliveries. Here’s how to proceed effectively:

Regular job site visits: Head to the worksite on a weekly basis—or as frequently as possible—to monitor the job’s progress. Such inspections allow you to anticipate or effectively rectify any error. 

Job quality assurance: Make sure that all materials used, whether it’s wood for a conventional timber frame or steel for a metal one, meet specifications. Verify that the trusses and knee braces are installed properly and meet building standards.

Report any issue to the contractor: If you spot any anomalies or flaws, flag them to your contractor right away so they can fix them without pushing deadlines.

Check invoices and payments: Make sure every invoice reflects the work actually done.

How to Handle the Unexpected

During a house framing renovation, unexpected events are bound to happen, but they can be efficiently managed with good planning.

Additional budget: Plan for a 10–15% buffer to cover unexpected costs, such as unplanned repairs or unfavourable weather conditions.

Change management: Discuss changes with your contractor to establish clear procedures in case something should happen mid-project. That way, you’ll know how to efficiently manage changes.

How to Problem-Solve

Communicate with Your Contractor

Should problems arise, it’s important to keep open lines of communication with your contractor and lead with transparency. That way, conflicts can be resolved swiftly, preventing disagreements that could snowball into something bigger.

Keep a Written Record of Decisions Made

To avoid confusion, write down every change made or important decision impacting the project. 

How to Get Organized During a House Framing Project

Some renovation projects, especially those involving structural framing, can temporarily leave the house out of order. Here are some organizational tips:

Temporary housing: If you’re planning a large-scale renovation, which requires you to move out for a while, such as a complete framing overhaul, plan for temporary housing during that period.

Anticipate delays: Should the job take longer than anticipated, have a backup plan to manage the timeline extension, such as prolonging your temporary housing or setting up a short-term comfort zone.

How to Manage Stress During Your Renovation Project

Renovation projects can be stressful, but with proper planning and open communication with the contractor, things are more likely to run smoothly.

Note that delays can result from unfavourable weather conditions or unexpected events. Keep that in mind to mentally prepare for potential setbacks.

Stay in regular contact with your contractor to remain informed about progress and any possible changes. Easy and consistent communication promotes better contingency management, helping the project stay on track as much as possible.

FAQ

What does structure framing mean in a house?

The frame is the building’s load-bearing structure, supporting the roof and protecting against extreme forces, such as wind, snow, and rain. It also contributes to the house’s overall structural integrity.

What are the different types of framing?

There are several types of roof framing, including conventional timber, steel, and glulam, each offering unique advantages. Steel frames are often favoured for their durability and high load-bearing capacity, while conventional wooden frames provide a warm, natural aesthetic that suits both traditional and contemporary houses.

How much does it cost to build framing?

Framing costs depend on the materials used and the complexity of the project. Wood framing typically ranges from $80 to $250 per square foot, while steel framing costs between $70 and $200 per square foot. Total costs for an entire roof can vary from $7,000 to $20,000, depending on the chosen roofing materials.

Check out our structural framing cost guide for more information about framing costs.

Where can you buy framing materials?

Framing materials can be purchased from specialized manufacturers, construction supply stores, and carpentry businesses. For custom framing options, consider working with local craftsmen.