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Every project is different, so we quote each one individually. As a general guide, custom home framing labour in Ottawa typically ranges from $15 to $25 per square foot. Materials are supplied by the homeowner or general contractor. The final figure depends on the size, wall heights, number of storeys, roof complexity, engineered lumber requirements and site access. We provide a free, detailed estimate after reviewing your plans.

We review your plans, visit the site when it helps, and give you a detailed estimate you can build with. Estimates are free and come with no obligation. If your plans aren't final yet, contact us early: we can point out framing details that may reduce construction costs before the design is locked in.

For custom home framing and additions, the homeowner or general contractor supplies the materials, which is standard practice in Ottawa and Toronto. Your lumber supplier runs a take-off from the plans to work out the quantities and every piece required, and we frame from that. We also tell you what to order and when, so materials are on site when the crew needs them and no time is lost. For basement renovations and decks, the arrangement depends on the project: we can supply the materials or work with materials you provide, and we confirm what fits at the estimate stage.

Most custom home framing projects take 4 to 12 weeks. The main factors are the size of the home, the number of storeys and wall heights, roof complexity (hip roofs, dormers and intersecting ridges take longer than simple gables), engineering requirements, inspection schedules, how quickly materials are ordered and delivered, and crew size. Ottawa weather can also cause delays: heavy snow, ice or high winds sometimes stop work for a day or more, and we plan around it. Hybrid steel and wood frames take longer because of steel delivery and crane scheduling. Complex or irregular homes can run beyond 12 weeks. We confirm the timeline for your project at the estimate stage.

Ask for proof of WSIB coverage and liability insurance, look at recent framing work, and speak to past clients. Make sure the framer works directly from engineer-stamped drawings and coordinates with your architect and general contractor. Get the scope in writing. Golden Carpentry is incorporated, WSIB insured, and has 23 years of experience.

The structural drawings specify it. Most wall and floor framing uses dimensional SPF (spruce-pine-fir) lumber, with engineered lumber such as LVL, PSL and TJI joists where longer spans or heavier loads require it, and steel in hybrid framing. We install what the engineer specifies.

Hybrid steel and wood framing combines heavy gauge cold-formed steel (CFS) framing with conventional wood framing for greater structural load capacity, dimensional stability and fire resistance. It is typically used in custom homes and multi-unit residential projects. Where buildings are built close together, the Ontario Building Code sets fire-separation requirements, and the architect or engineer may specify steel or other fire-resistant construction to meet them.

Yes, framing and structural additions can be executed during Eastern Ontario winters as long as the foundation concrete is poured and cured before extreme freezing.

A building permit from the City of Ottawa is required for any structural home addition, and depending on scope may also require mechanical, plumbing and electrical permits. The homeowner or general contractor normally applies for the permit. Golden Carpentry frames to the permitted, engineer-stamped drawings, and the framing is inspected by the City before the next trades start. If you contact us before your plans are approved, we can offer early framing advice that can help reduce construction costs. The design and vision stay yours, but small details can make a big difference, and framing affects every trade that follows.

Yes, the City of Ottawa requires a building permit for any basement renovation involving structural wall modifications, plumbing rough-ins, or legal secondary suite conversions. If you're not sure whether your project needs one, check with the City or contact us.

Often, yes. In Ottawa a building permit is generally required when a deck is more than about 600 mm (2 feet) above the ground, or when it is part of a larger project that needs a permit. Requirements depend on the height, size and design, so check with the City of Ottawa before you build. You are also welcome to contact Golden Carpentry: we can talk through your options early, before plans are finalized.

Yes. Golden Carpentry is based in Ottawa but available for custom home framing and structurally complex residential projects across the Greater Toronto Area. Ronan has extensive experience in the Toronto construction market.