Salomón Peña: President, Chicagoland Developers Group

When it comes to home building, few people know the inside story better than Puerto Rico-born framer Salomon Peña, president of Chicagoland Developers Group, a Chicago-based company that has been buying, repairing, developing and selling properties for more than a decade.

“As a developer, I have a vision of what I want a project to be,” says Peña. “Framing allows me to see those ideas take shape.”

A well-built structural framework is key to the overall quality of a building, and an important factor in cost control. “Accurate framing guarantees a sound structure and reduces future expenses to rectify poor quality or follow the building code,” Peña says.

“Framing is the backbone of a house, its soul.” —Salomon Peña

Estwing 22 Oz. Milled Face Framing Hammer. “This is a great framing hammer. Framers like it because it is very strong and durable, and its size and weight are just right.”

Milwaukee Tilt-Lok 7¼-Inch Circular Saw. “This is a high quality professional tool. It is very light, but sturdy, reliable and powerful. It cuts 2X4's like butter and produces very fine cuts.”

Stanley Quick Square Aluminum Framing Square. “This framing square is very useful and easy to carry in your tool belt. It is a well-built accurate square at a very affordable price. You can’t beat that combination!”

Ridgid 3½-Inch Clipped Head Framing Nailer. “Ridgid makes great framing guns, but this one is an excellent choice. It never gets jammed and you can get them at a very low price.”

Dewalt Heavy-Duty 3/8-Inch 12V Cordless Compact Drill/Driver Kit. “Framers like this drill because it is lightweight, easy to handle and with enough power to get the job done.”

Freud Diablo 7-1/4" 24 Tooth Framing Saw Blade. “There are many saw blades out there, but this is one of the best for the price. It cuts through wood like butter and makes the framing job faster. Who doesn’t like a product that helps you finish up early?”