What is a Timber Frame & Truss Supplier?

A Timber Frame and Truss Supplier provides pre-fabricated timber wall frames and roof trusses made specifically to suit your approved architectural and engineering plans. The timber components are built off-site and delivered in sections for your carpenter to assemble on-site.


This is a major structural supply item, typically ordered once the slab is poured and framer is ready to begin vertical construction.

What does a Timber Frame & Truss Supplier do?

Your supplier will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, they will:

  • Convert your architectural and engineering plans into fabrication-ready frame layouts
  • Prefabricate all structural components: external and internal wall frames, roof trusses, and bracing elements
  • Deliver frames to site in clearly labelled packs
  • Provide assembly drawings and layout plans for your framer
  • Coordinate timing with your carpenter to minimise on-site delays


Some suppliers offer crane unloading or install services, but most work in tandem with your chosen frame installer.

Tip: Finalise Window Sizes and Floor Joist Layout Before Signing Off

Don’t sign off on frame drawings until your window and door sizes are final — incorrect openings are a common source of site delays.


And if you’re framing over a suspended floor, confirm the timber floor joist layout first — it directly affects wall frame placement.

What to look for in a Frame & Truss Supplier

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Materials used (e.g. MGP10/MGP12 timber, treated pine, LVL)
  • Confirmation of inclusions: bracing, lintels, fixings, layout plans
  • Timeline from drawing approval to site delivery
  • Shop drawing process and approval steps


Bonus if the supplier can liaise directly with your engineer.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Timber Frame and Truss Suppliers, you’ll need:

  • Full architectural and structural plans (PDF format)
  • Bracing details and wall heights
  • Roof pitch, load points, and window/door positions
  • Preferred delivery timeline based on slab and site readiness
  • Site access for large truck/crane delivery (if required)

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 my framer build the frame on site instead of using prefab?

    Yes — but prefabricated frames are faster, more accurate, and reduce waste.

  • Is delivery included?

    Not always — check your quote. Some include delivery and crane offload, others charge separately.

  • What if I change my window size after ordering?

    Changes after sign-off may incur a variation fee or require on-site modification. Finalise all window and door details before approving shop drawings.

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.