Where to find framing contractors who aren't general contractors

Question

I'm looking to act as my own general contractor for a couple rehab projects, both of which involve adding a 2nd level to a 1-level home. I'm having a hard time finding contractors who can handle the framing portion of the project (flooring joists, laying subfloor, walls, roofing system) who aren't also general contractors. It seems every company I talk to is a general contractor.

Can anyone offer advice for how to find contractors who aren't general contractors? I don't want to pay the general contractor's premium.

Mike Salisbury · Answer

Good point above on 84, they have great prices on lumber- most pro framers use them.

When calling supply houses always ask for framers who pay their bills on time. This narrows the field as only a few stick out but they are the crews you want on your job.

John Weidner · Answer

To be honest should be one of the easiest to sub.   They are basically carpenters

my recommendation is drive around your area and stop at new construction going up and stop the framing crew ask for the boss and tell him what your looking for.

Most framing contractors have GC license.  You can sub a GC for framing.  framing contractors sub for other GC's

Seen some bad framing jobs recently so make sure you vet them out especially if your doing a pop top

John Weidner · Answer

Account Closed

Its a good point about the yards

Alot of pro framers I know who do high volume use 84 Lumber and smaller regional type yards not the Menards etc.

Account Closed · Answer

One thing I've done is called a supply place (non big box - stay away from Home Depot or Lowe's) and ask who they would recommend.  Doing a quick Google search for lumber yards you seem to have a few options in Indianapolis.

That's how I recently found a drywall guy - I called a drywall supply place (thinking they were contractors) and asked them to give me a bid.  When they explained they only supply drywall, they provided me with two numbers to call.  First guy I called was eager to do the work.

Anthony M. · Answer

Thank you.

Where to find framing contractors who aren't general contractors

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