Framing may be one of the most labor-intensive phases of the construction process, but it is also one of the most exciting. Floors, walls and roof come together like a puzzle as the framing components of a house are completed. “I get a big sense of pride and satisfaction out of my job,” says Edgar Dominguez, a framing specialist in the Los Angeles area. “Every new project is a new challenge.”
As a carpenter, Dominguez has learned to work with different contractors and subcontractors. “Teamwork and flexibility are important parts of the job,” he says. “You need to rely on your team members and keep the communication channels open to be successful.”
Dominguez believes the secrets to a job well done are good-quality well-maintained tools. “I can tell you from experience, it is very important that contractors provide their workers the best possible tools,” he says.
Irwin 100-foot Chalk & Reel Combo w/bonus level. “This is the chalk line I like, because the line holds enough chalk for repeated use, and if you use it right, it doesn’t tangle.”
Estwing 22-ounch milled face framing hammer with shock reduction grip. “I believe this is a framer’s tool of choice. This framing hammer is very strong, yet it has the perfect size and weight to allow for some fast pounding.”
Milwaukee Tilt Lok circular saw. “I’ve use this versatile saw a lot. It has more than enough power to perform almost any cut I have ever needed at the jobsite, and it does it well and straight every time. It is very reliable, sturdy and well-balanced.”
DeWalt 18V ½-inch hammer drill/driver. “Having a good, powerful and reliable drill is a must at the jobsite. This drill has excellent battery life and is very powerful.”
Klein Tools Journeyman framer gloves. “Every framer should invest in a good pair of gloves like these. The fingerless design gives you freedom when handling small parts, while the palm protects you and improves your grip.”
Paslode 30 Degree Paper Collated Stick Framing Nailer (model F350-s). “This framing nailer lets me work fast. Nails are loaded from the top, which helps you move faster. What I like about this nailer is its depth adjustment feature. It is very precise and easy to use.”
Empire 78-inch True Blue Magnetic Aluminum Level (model EM41.78). “Creating perfectly straight surfaces and walls starts with a good quality level like this one. It’s sturdy, easy to read and magnetic, which comes in handy when I am working with steel studs.”
Irwin Speedbor 8-piece Pro Set (model 341008). “The last thing you want is a drill bit that bites through wood. These bits make clean holes and the case keeps them in top shape.”