Also known as: Structural framing, stud framing, partition framing, rough carpentry (walls)

What this role covers

• Shapes the layout and structure of interiors with load-bearing and non-bearing walls.
• Provides straight, plumb, and square surfaces for services and finishes to follow.
• Installs connectors, firestopping, and sheathing to meet structural and code requirements.

What they do

• Layout and prep: Wall lines snapped, plates cut, anchor bolts located, sill seal and treated bottom plates at concrete.
• Wall framing: Wood or metal stud walls, 16/24 o.c. spacing, corners and backing, double top plates, cripples, trimmers, and king studs.
• Openings and structure: Headers and lintels sized per plans, posts, beams, squash blocks, and load transfers.
• Shear and bracing: OSB/plywood sheathing with specified nailing, strap bracing, holdowns, and tie-down hardware.
• Fire and draft control: Fireblocking, draftstopping, and shaftwall details at penetrations and chases.
• Backing and furring: Blocking for cabinets, handrails, TVs, grab bars; furring and hat channel to straighten or create plumb planes.
• Metal stud partitions: Non-structural interior walls, track and stud systems, deflection details at slabs and ceilings.
• Integration with services: Bored/notched stud limits, nail plates, bath fan and niche framing, utility chases.
• Selective changes: Temporary shoring for wall removals, new beams or posts, infill framing, and straightening of existing walls.
• Exterior wall tasks: Sheathing, rough window/door openings, weatherhead blocking; coordination for WRB and flashing by the exterior crew.

Where it fits in the project timeline

• Early rough phase: After foundation and floor systems are set; walls framed and stood, hardware installed, and shear inspected.
• Mid rough phase: Openings verified; MEP rough-ins proceed through framed walls with nail plates and clearances.
• Pre-close: Fireblocking and backing completed; framing punch addressed before insulation and drywall.

Permits, inspections, and coordination

• Building permit with structural details for load-bearing changes and shear walls.
• Framing inspections for hardware, sheathing nailing, fireblocking, and rough openings.
• Special inspections when specified for anchors, holdowns, or engineered systems.
• Coordination with structural engineer for any field changes or unforeseen conditions.

Deliverables and documentation

• Marked layout plans and wall tags; header schedules and hardware lists.
• Photos of concealed connectors, anchor installations, and shear nailing before cover.
• Inspector sign-offs and any engineer letters for revisions.
• As-built notes for adjusted openings or wall relocations.

When to bring this team in

• New builds or additions needing load-bearing and partition walls.
• Remodels that remove, move, or resize walls and openings.
• Projects calling for shear upgrades, straightening, or added backing for heavy finishes.

Interfaces with other trades

• Structural: Engineers for sizing of headers, posts, and shear details.
• MEP trades: Routing through studs, protection plates, and chase framing.
• Drywall and finishes: Planarity and backing for flat finishes and fixtures.
• Exterior envelope: WRB, flashing, and siding teams after sheathing.
• Windows/doors: Installers aligning units to framed openings and shims.

Safety and risk notes

• Temporary bracing to prevent wall tip-over before diaphragm tie-in.
• Saw, nailer, and lifting safety; PPE and hearing protection.
• Weather exposure management for lumber and sheathing; dry-in sequencing.
• Compliance with limits for stud notching/boring and firestopping continuity.

Quality and standards

• Plumb/level/straight tolerances for walls and openings; consistent reveal planning.
• Nailing schedules and connector installation per plans and manufacturer specs.
• Stud spacing and deflection criteria for assemblies, including rated and acoustic walls.
• Code requirements for fireblocking, draftstopping, and corrosion-resistant materials at concrete.

Not to confuse with

Finish carpentry, drywall/plaster, or masonry walls. Framing and walls focus on the structural and rough-in stage that others build upon.

Typical inclusions

• Wall layout, wood/metal stud framing, headers, posts, and sheathing.
• Hardware installation: anchors, straps, holdowns, clips, and ties.
• Fireblocking/draftstopping and backing for finishes and fixtures.
• Furring and straightening for flat, true walls.

Typical exclusions (project-dependent)

• Insulation, drywall, taping, and paint.
• Exterior WRB and cladding, unless specified.
• New structural steel beyond light-gauge framing accessories.
• Window/door installation unless noted in scope.

Result

True, plumb, and well-braced walls with the right openings, hardware, and firestopping—ready for MEP rough-ins, insulation, and finishes.