In the construction world, the tradition of a Topping Out ceremony has been around for over 1,000 years. The event takes place when the final beam is raised on a structure, signaling that framing is done and it’s time to move on to making the shell a beautiful space for work or play. This celebration, which many say started in Scandanavia, served several purposes then.

First, it was a way to recognize and celebrate the framing of a new building. This was, and still is, an important milestone for any construction project.

Also, the northern Europeans, to appease the spirits who lived in the trees they cut down, would often attach a small pine tree to the top of the beam. It’s said that, when all the needles fell off the tree, the Scandinavians knew the building’s frame was dried out or cured. This meant they could enclose the structure.

While today’s topping out ceremonies don’t necessarily include offerings to tree-dwelling spirits, they are a great way to show appreciation for the project team, construction crew, stakeholders, and all involved in getting a building project to that important benchmark.

Often at the ceremony owners and project members will sign the beam before it is raised.

Once framing is complete it’s time to turn a shell into a building with walls, lights, and floors, where once there was just an idea and a blueprint.

Visit our GJ Blackout page to see more photos and articles from our recent Topping Out ceremony.