When to hire a pro for home improvement projects
Before you hire a carpenter
What carpenters actually do sounds simple enough: They cut and shape building materials, typically made of wood, then repair and make things.
But there’s a lengthy process involved entering this field, and they ultimately end up varying skill sets. Here’s what you should know before you hire a carpenter.
Training and qualifications
Finding a carpenter who meets both your needs and budget can be difficult. Understanding the training and qualifications that go into this career may help with the decision-making process. Many learn the ins and outs of this trade in community college, a trade school or highschool shop courses, though a degree is not required. Others serve apprenticeship by assisting more seasoned pros in the business. Testing provided through the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America leads to official journeyman status.
The next step, after a lengthy period as a journeyman, is master carpenter, an informal designation meant to acknowledge the expertise to perform almost any job. Master carpenters will charge more per hour than journeymen.
Licensing and insurance
Hiring an unlicensed carpenter is illegal in some states. Though the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America has a standard for potential journeymen, each state may set its own criteria. Valid licenses indicate that your carpenter has state-required bonding and insurance, a critical protection for customers. Ask your prospective carpenter about liability insurance and workers compensation insurance, in case something goes wrong on the site. The bond protects you if the carpenter doesn’t meet the contract terms. Quality carpenters may also offer a warranty on the material and services provided. That would provide another layer of security.
Services and availability
There are different types of carpentry, depending on customer needs. Rough (or frame) carpenters special in creating basic structures so that the job is level, square and plumb. Finish carpenters complete their work, installing secondary items like doors, decks and roofs. Specialists who have been trained in more focused ways then follow, including cabinet makers.
Once you’ve determined which is right for you, ask about availability, not just for your start date but for a window of time. Urgent or time-sensitive projects may require a different carpenter. Ask if they charge an hourly or flat rate, if they can provide references and if you can get an estimate in writing.
Home project mistakes to avoid
Home projects can be costly, even if everything goes well. If they don’t, the results can take a huge bite out of your budget. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Unrealistic expectations
Renovations typically cost more than we first expect. So have realistic discussions with your home-project pros, then build an additional 20% into your budget. That way you’re prepared for any contingencies.
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