Drywall and wall framing subcontractor
Hang and finish drywall and frame interior walls as a sub for builders and remodelers.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
Official data
20,760 US businesses with employees in this field, +3.0% in a year
NAICS 238310 “Drywall and insulation contractors”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.
What it is
Framing interior walls with metal or wood studs, hanging drywall, taping and finishing, usually on jobs handed to you by general contractors and remodelers.
Your first three steps
- Check with your state licensing board and city or county on what license a drywall or framing sub needs
- Price a basic tool kit and get a general liability insurance quote
- Introduce yourself to local remodelers and small builders and offer a paid trial job
Who pays
General contractors, remodelers, and property managers who need reliable interior work done.
How it makes money
Price per square foot or per job, with some work paid by the day. Repeat work from a few good contractors keeps you busy.
Skills that help
- Framing and drywall installation
- Reading plans and measuring accurately
- Reliable timekeeping and clean finishing
Watch out for
- Contractor licensing rules and dollar limits on unlicensed work vary by state, so check yours
- General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire helpers (some contractors ask for proof even for solo subs)
- Dust and heavy lifting, so plan for protective gear and safe working practices
- Late payment from contractors, so use written agreements and check lien rights in your state
🔒 Full research report for US
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a drywall subcontracting business?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the tools and equipment you already own, protective gear, insurance and how much work you take on at the start.
Do I need a license to do drywall and framing work?
Check your state. Contractor licensing rules and dollar limits on unlicensed work vary by state. Also check general liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire helpers, since some contractors ask for proof even from solo subs.
How much can a drywall subcontractor earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many jobs you win and how many hours you work, with at least 25 hours a week expected. Use written agreements to manage late payment.
Other ways to run this business
Similar trades ideas
Brick repair and repointing
Fix cracked brick, crumbling mortar joints and damaged chimneys for homeowners in your area.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Countertop installer for remodelers and homeowners
Measure and install laminate, butcher block and pre-cut stone countertops in kitchens and bathrooms.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Small-job excavating with rented equipment
Dig trenches, footings and drainage for homeowners and builders, renting a mini excavator per job instead of buying one.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Mobile school band instrument repair
Visit schools and music studios to repair band and orchestra instruments on site, then handle bigger jobs at your bench.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Home studio custom jewelry and repairs
Make custom gold and silver pieces and handle resizing and repairs from a small home workbench.
- $3k-12k
- Side hustle
- From home
Replacement window installer (subcontract)
Install double-pane windows and doors for window dealers and general contractors, with no showroom or sales needed.
- $3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about