What is a Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter?
A Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter is a qualified tradesperson responsible for assembling and installing pre-fabricated timber wall frames and roof trusses on site. This work happens early in your build, typically after the slab is poured and before the roof goes on.
They use engineered plans to ensure structural accuracy, forming the skeleton of your home.
What does a Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter do?
Your Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.
Typically, a Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter will:
- Interpret structural drawings and site set-out
- Assemble and fix timber wall frames and roof trusses
- Install structural bracing, tie-downs, and fixings
- Check for squareness, plumb lines, and load alignment
- Coordinate with other trades (e.g. crane operators for trusses)
They may also provide feedback on frame adjustments if there are on-site issues or clashes.
Tip: Check Slab-to-Frame Fit and Plan Ahead for Lifting
Always double-check that your slab dimensions match your frame plans — even small discrepancies can cause major delays.
And if your trusses are large, book a crane early and confirm the carpenter includes lifting in their quote.
What to look for in a Timber Frame and Truss Carpenter
When reviewing quotes, look for:
- Carpentry licence and insurance
- Proven experience with timber framing systems
- Familiarity with your frame supplier’s documentation
- Clear quote inclusions (e.g. fixings, crane hire, site cleanup)
- Ability to work efficiently to meet critical path deadlines
Bonus if they’ve worked with your frame supplier before.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready
To get quotes from Timber Frame and Truss Carpenters, you’ll need:
- Full structural plans and truss layout
- Frame supplier and delivery schedule
- Site plan and slab set-out
- Crane access details (if required)
- Preferred install dates
Glossary
Below is a breakdown of each major stage involved in the structural framing of your home.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Procure | Ask a few different frame and truss companies how much they’ll charge to supply and install the timber structure for your home. You’ll need to give them your plans. |
| Ground Floor Erection Works | Works This is when the builders put together and stand up the timber frame for the ground floor of your house. It’s the first big step in building your home’s structure. |
| First Floor Erection Works & Flooring | If your home has two levels, this is when the upper floor is built — including the floor platform (like the base you walk on upstairs) and the walls above the ground floor. |
| Trusses Erection Work | Trusses are the large timber pieces that form the shape of your roof. This stage is when those roof pieces are lifted into place and fixed on top of the frame. |
| External Doors Jam Fix, Windows & Internal Cavity Slider Install | In this step, the builders put in the frames for your windows and outside doors, as well as the sliding door tracks that sit inside the walls. This helps prepare the house for enclosing the structure. |
| Complete | This means all the structural frame and install work is done for this stage. You check that everything has been completed properly and get ready for the next part of your build (like roofing or services). |
Average Timeframe
For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within
7-10 business
days.
When Can I Expect Quotes?
Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.
Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).
If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any carpenter for frame and truss work?
Not all carpenters are experienced in structural framing. Choose one who specialises in timber frames and understands engineering tolerances.
Do they supply the frame and trusses?
No — you’ll usually order these from a frame supplier. Your carpenter installs them based on the engineering plans.
Do I need a crane to install the trusses?
It depends on the size of your trusses and roof span. Your carpenter can advise whether lifting equipment is needed.
How to Complete this Task?
STEP 1
Review and Adjust the Scope of Works
Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.
STEP 2
Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded
Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:
STEP 3
Update the Quality Assurance Checklist
Go to the
Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.
STEP 4
Request Quotes
Click the
orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.
STEP 5
Review the Quotes
Once you receive quotes:
- Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
- Download attached quote documents for detailed review
- Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews
STEP 6
Communicate with the Pro
If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.
STEP 7
Accept a Quote
Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.
STEP 8
Complete the Tasks In Your App
New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the
Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your
contract and
final Scope of Works whenever needed.
NEED HELP?
Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro
If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.
If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.
