How to Start a Framing Contractor Business: Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Dec 2, 2025
- 3 min read
Starting a framing contractor business can be highly rewarding, especially with growing demand for new home construction across the country. Whether you're transitioning from a framing crew lead to a business owner or starting from scratch, there are essential steps you must take to launch your business properly.
This guide walks you through costs, licensing, equipment, hiring, marketing, and insurance—everything required to succeed as a new framing contractor.
Why Start a Framing Contractor Business
The residential construction industry is experiencing steady growth, creating a strong demand for skilled framing contractors. Builders and general contractors are always seeking reliable framing crews who can deliver quality work on schedule.
Step 1: Understand Startup Costs
Starting a framing contractor business requires careful planning and a clear understanding of initial investment. Costs vary depending on tools, equipment, and staffing, with most new businesses spending between $15,000 and $50,000.
Typical Startup Expenses
Business registration and licensing
Tools and equipment
Work vehicle or trailer
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Initial insurance premiums
Payroll for employees or subcontractors
Marketing and website development
Step 2: Choose a Legal Business Structure
Selecting the right business structure impacts liability protection, taxation, and operational flexibility.
Common Structure Options
LLC: Popular choice offering liability protection and simple management
S-Corp: Offers potential tax advantages for growing businesses
Sole Proprietorship: Easiest to set up, but provides no personal liability protection
Step 3: Obtain Required Licensing
Licensing requirements differ by state and sometimes by municipality. Some states require only a general contractor license, while others require specialty trade licenses for framing contractors.
Licensing Considerations
General contractor license
Specialty framing or carpentry license
Home improvement license
Local city or county permits
Step 4: Purchase Essential Tools and Equipment
High-quality tools and equipment are critical for efficiency, safety, and quality work.
Essential Equipment
Nail guns and air compressor
Circular saws and miter saws
Ladders and scaffolding
Levels, squares, and layout tools
PPE and fall protection gear
Truck or trailer for transportation
Optional Add-Ons
Laser level
Jobsite generator
Digital tool tracking system
Step 5: Build a Skilled Crew
Whether you hire employees or subcontract labor, a skilled team is essential for completing projects on time and to standard.
Key Attributes of a Reliable Crew
Experience in residential framing
Strong safety practices
Reliability under tight deadlines
Ability to read and follow construction plans accurately
Step 6: Market Your Framing Contractor Business
A strong marketing presence helps you attract new clients and maintain consistent work. While referrals and reputation are crucial, marketing ensures your business remains visible in a competitive market.
Effective Marketing Strategies
Professional website highlighting services and past projects
Google Business Profile listing
Networking with builders, developers, and general contractors
Membership in local builder associations
Active social media showcasing completed projects
Market Your Framing Business with Contractor Back Office
Struggling to market your framing business? Contractor Back Office helps Framing contractors build a strong brand, attract more clients, and streamline operations using smart digital tools and expert support
Our Services Include:
Step 7: Secure the Right Insurance
Insurance is essential for protecting your business and is often required by builders before you can start work on a site.
Recommended Coverage
General Liability: Protects against property damage or bodily injury
Workers Compensation: Required if you have employees
Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers work trucks and vehicles
Tools and Equipment Coverage: Protects tools from theft or damage
Commercial Property Insurance: Protects your physical assets such as office space, storage facilities, and larger equipment Provides additional liability protection for larger projects
Wexford Insurance specializes in providing insurance solutions for framing contractors nationwide.
Step 8: Implement Efficient Business Systems
Well-structured systems help ensure consistent operations, accurate job costing, and long-term profitability.
Recommended Systems
Estimating and job costing software
Time tracking and payroll management
Safety protocols and weekly toolbox talks
Subcontractor agreements
Job scheduling and workflow software
Equipment tracking
Final Thoughts
Launching a framing contractor business offers significant opportunities in today’s construction market.
When it comes to protecting your business and meeting builder requirements, Wexford Insurance is your trusted partner. We provide comprehensive insurance solutions specifically for framing contractors.
