Carpentry is an important skill only acquired over training, education, and lots of experience. They primarily measure, cut, and construct materials made of wood. Some basic skills that every carpenter should know are the following: reading and following blueprints, have an understanding of basic geometry and calculating angles, knowledge of wood, and construction methods. Most carpenters should also be familiar with the different types of wood used in framing, roof construction, and the finish on the interiors and exteriors of the house. They should also know which types of wood and nails are appropriate for specific purposes. And, even though carpenters work mostly with wood, they should also be familiar with other materials such as concrete, plastic, or composite. In addition, they should also have the necessary tools to cut, drill, nail, and perform other duties related to house renovations with chisels, saws, drivers, hammers, and other power or measuring tools. Many of these tools are dangerous to work with, if not handled or used correctly. However, there are many types of carpenters that specialize in different areas of home renovations and construction.

Types of Carpenters

There are those carpenters who are involved with the beginning of the project, dealing with the structure of the building and the parts of the building that do need to be neatly done--called rough carpenters. Finish carpenters work with more with detail and the end of project involving interior trims and moldings. Other more specific types of carpentry include: formwork, cabinetmaking, trim, green, scenic, and ship’s carpentry.

Formwork carpentry deals more with assembling and dismantling the frame that holds the concrete together while it is curing.

Cabinetmaking carpenters do exactly what the title suggests. They specialize in building cabinets for the kitchen, the bathroom, and other rooms in the house.

Trim carpenters mainly install trims and mouldings into a room.

Green carpenters have the same basic skill sets as any other carpenter; however, they prioritize methods and materials that benefit the environment.

Scenic carpenters work with setting up, designing, and taking down sets for movies, television, and plays.

Ship carpenters can work with steel or wood materials specializing in ship building, maintenance, and repair.

In general, carpenters must have excellent hand-eye coordination and a keen eye for minor details. It also doesn’t hurt for them to be physically strong and mathematically adept to help homeowners with planning or designing.