All Things Related to Carpentry

A Carpenter is essentially a person who builds stuff to live and work in.  Much like a Doctor, there are many different types of carpenters:

There could be a general/Framing Carpenter, a guy who knows the basics and can run a saw with some proficiency and knows the basics to framing a house.

- A Form/ Concrete Carpenter, a guy who really only knows how to set and build concrete forms.
- A Finish Carpenter is a guy that works on the later stages of an interior project, he has a lot of varying skills, he can install backing or fixtures and do punch-list and other various details.
- A Trim Carpenter is a guy who knows how to cut and install base, chair rail, crown molding, door and window casing, install cabinets and some counter tops, set a door frame, and even hang and hardware the door.

There are three basic levels of knowledge within all these various studies:

- A guy starts off as a Cubby or Apprentice, typically for 4 years if it's an official program.
- Then he becomes a Journeyman Carpenter when he "turns-out". A good journeyman will have gotten a little experience in all the areas of study I mention above, and then some.
- After that, a select few can pursue a Master Carpenter program if they feel the need, I can't say I know anybody personally who has gone that far, so I honestly can't tell you what is involved there.
- These 3 steps apply to almost every trade here in the US, Carpenters, Plumbers, Electricians, Masons, Welder/Erectors, even Painters.

There is also a distinction to be made between

- Commercial,
- Residential New-Build, and
- Residential Remodeling Carpenters.

In residential remodeling there are often two job titles:

- that of Lead Carpenter
- and Carpenter's Helper.

A Lead Remodeling Carpenter is usually expected to run the job as well as swing a hammer.  He will manage the subcontractors, communicate with the homeowner, and schedule the job.