how much does someone charge per sq. ft. to rough frame a new house?
Answers:
I work for a custom builder, and we pay our framer $1.50/sf for the first floor and $5.50/sf for the second floor. We build very big, detailed houses, but that may give you some idea.
Other answers:
I have always been told that is roughly about double the price of the material. Only hear-say.
I have always been told that is roughly about double the price of the material. Only hear-say.
A neighbour of mine was a framer and he told me he was getting about $3-$4 /sq. ft. for framing. That was in southern Ontario. He recently moved to Calgary where, because of the economic boom, he could make about $14. So I guess it all depends on where you live!
Too many variables to give a good answer.
You need to fix some of them:
- foundation type: basement, elevated perimeter with crawlspace, or concrete slab.
- 2x4 or 2x6 walls
- I-beams or solid-sawn beams & joists
- stick-built roof or trusses
- simple roof (hip style) or complex gables and dormers
- how many stories is your design
- earthquake or hurricane design codes
On top of all those factors, lumber materials have been increasing every month for the past 4 years. Now that housing industry is slowing down, prices may stabilize.
I would be very suspicious if you can get a reliable estimate from anyone who does not ask for these inputs.