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what to consider when selecting a carpenter

Carpenters are required for a number of different tasks around the home, from simple repair work to major construction, generally from wood.

In construction a carpenter is usually required to build stairs, installation of window and door frames, skirting boards, framing walls and loft spaces. There are many different types of carpentry and some will choose to specialise in one or two specific areas.

• Rough Carpenters generally work on roofing, structural and large scale work which does not require any joinery.
• A Joister will lay joists in floors (the woodwork which the actual floor is attached too).
• A Joiner usually makes furniture, cabinets and does fine woodwork. Accuracy is paramount, with precise joints and a high level of skill being required.
• The framework of a timber framed building is constructed by a framer, whereas a roofer carpenter works on the construction of the rafters, beams and trusses of the building.
• Cabinet Makers provide very detailed work with a fine level of finish; these can range from dressers, cabinets and other high quality furniture.
• A trim carpenter is the name given to one who chooses to specialise in mouldings and trims. These may include skirting boards, window casings, cabinet installation and window casings.

Nowadays, particularly with building construction, much of the required woodwork of a property is pre-fabricated. These would include staircases and trusses and helps to make the job of the carpenter far easier, faster and therefore cheaper.

Tools required by a carpenter varied. They include hand and power tools, such as a range of saws, drills, planes and screwdrivers. Fixatives such as adhesive, nails, and screws and items for checking the accuracy of work such as rulers, spirit levels, plumblines and squares.

The majority of carpenters serve as apprentices in the first instance and this helps them gain experience as well as attending a day release college program to help them achieve a qualification such as an NVQ in wood occupations.

Carpenters can also work towards a bronze, silver or gold award from The Institute of Carpenters. This award represents the ability of the carpenter. From 2010 the UK government will insist that all those who work within the construction industry hold a construction skills certificate or must ensure they have membership to a similar scheme. It will be required that the tradesperson posses either an NVQ or SVQ qualification and has passed an assessment for health and safety. This will allow a customer to see the qualifications and experience of the tradesperson before choosing who to employ.

Remember, with any tradesperson it’s always worth considering the following:-

• Is the price given for a quotation or an estimate and does it include VAT
• Does the price include all materials and is it for the completed job
• Will the completed job be guaranteed and if so, in what way
• Is the tradesperson fully insured