Do you Need a Carpenter?

Some handymen (and women) have carpentry experience, and others are carpenters. However, there are projects that need a real carpenter. When you want to finish a building project that is beyond a general handyman, you may want to hire a carpenter.

Wood is found in the structures of homes and commercial buildings as well as used for furniture, fixtures, trim, and finishes on boats. A carpenter works with wood and other building materials. Carpenters work outdoors and inside, and use hand and power tools. They cut, fasten, and assemble. There are two classifications of carpentry 'rough and finish. Rough carpenters usually construct and frame structures in the beginning building phases while finish carpenters install trim, cabinets, doors, moldings and wood floors.

Some carpenters have a variety of carpentry skills while others focus on specific projects such as general construction, framing, stairs, doors, trim and finish work, decks, cabinetry, or furniture. Carpenters are the largest group of skilled trade workers in the construction industry.

Professional carpenters usually belong to trade unions and have completed specific training and apprenticeship programs. Kitchen cabinetry, basement finishing, framing, home remodeling, and door hanging are examples that require carpenter skills. Most of these projects will require a carpenter or a contractor that employs a carpenter. Some specific carpenter classifications include woodworker, millworker, and cabinet maker. These carpenters often create furniture, cabinets, and custom finish pieces and have experience in the restoration of wood.

Many carpenters get involved in the design of projects. There are lots of deck builders who are carpenters and know how to configure load, anchoring, foundation, stair, railing and structure needs. Some also work with landscape designers for a complete outdoor design.

Basement finishing carpenters often know how to design framing for electrical, plumbing, door, and ceiling installations. Some are also adept at hanging drywall and installing ceiling tiles and flooring.

A cabinet carpenter might be capable of complete kitchen design or work closely with a reputable kitchen designer.

Involving your carpenter at the beginning of your project is a good idea. As they perform the construction, they can often foresee issues other professional might not.

When interviewing prospective carpenters, ask the following questions:

- Do you design projects?
- How many schemes have you designed?
- What are your specific areas of expertise?
- Do you belong to a union or trade association and if so which one?
- What parts of my project will you not be doing and who will be doing them?
- Do you have a certificate of insurance or bond?
- When will the project be started and completed?

If your project needs electrical, plumbing or roofing work in addition to carpentry, you may decide to consider either a carpenter who is a general contractor or a general contractor. Some carpenters are general contractors and will handle a project from start to finish while others only perform the carpentry portion of the project. Ask if the carpenter handles projects such as yours from start to finish and is responsible for such things as applying for any required local building permits.

Narrowing down a completion date and getting it in writing is important when hiring for any type of project. Just because someone tells you a project will take 21 days, does not necessary mean they will be working 21 consecutive days.

For wood finishing or furniture repair, you might visit a furniture shop or millworks. They often employ carpenters who specialize in wood finishing.