Construction is a unique industry. It is always changing. Each new job or building has its own individual plan, timetable, and workers to do the job. The economy, local governments, codes, tools, and materials are also constantly changing, creating different work environments. The crew structure has to change, as necessary, to accommodate the particular requirements of a job. To be efficient, the lead framer must be aware of all factors that affect the job, and must be able to work successfully within them.
The management structure of a framing crew can differ from company to company. In some cases, the lead framer is the owner/builder. In larger construction companies, the lead framer may run only the framing crew. Either way, the lead framer leads the framing on the job.
This book is not intended to cover the functions of the framing contractor or builder that include office management, bids, payroll, or business organization. It is written for someone who already has experience, knowledge, and skills in basic framing, and who wants to move up to the next level or become a better lead framer.
As a lead framer, you need to have a different perspective from a crew member. When you are working on your own, the amount of work completed depends on you. When you are leading a crew, the amount of work finished depends on the whole crew. On your own, you have complete control over what can be done, whereas you have limited control over how much work your crew gets done. Nevertheless, you only need a little control and increased knowledge to make a big difference in how much work the crew finishes. This chapter is intended to give you that increase in knowledge— which can make your jobs run better.
1. Knowledge to frame any building
2. Ability to impart knowledge to other framers
3. Ability to motivate other framers
Knowledge to Frame Any Building
As a lead framer, you must thoroughly understand the basic concepts involved in framing any style
building. The framing crew takes their direction from you; you, in turn, take your direction, depending on the situation, from any of the following:
a. Framing contractor
b. Site superintendent
c. Architect or engineer (plans)
d. Owner
There are a number of framing requirements that are easy to overlook. Compile checklists such as the ones shown and refer to them during each phase of the job.
Responsibilities of Lead Framer
□ Check location and quality of power supply.
□ Check location and date of lumber drop.
□ Check window delivery schedule.
□ Check truss delivery schedule when appropriate.
□ Arrange to have the builder complete as much site preparation as possible before starting, including leveling the area around the building where framers will be working.
□ Highlight items on plans that are easy to miss or hard to find.
□ Make a list of potential problem areas and items that are easy to forget.
