Carpentry & Joinery

What Does a Carpenter Do?

Carpenters and joiners work with timber to carry out a wide variety of jobs in your home. First-fix carpentry involves structural work during a build or renovation — things like fitting floor joists, stud walls, and roof structures. Second-fix carpentry covers the finishing elements: fitting skirting boards, architraves, internal doors, staircases, and built-in wardrobes or storage. Many carpenters also offer joinery services, crafting bespoke items such as fitted kitchens, window frames, and garden structures in their workshop.

If you are having an extension or loft conversion built, a carpenter will typically be involved at multiple stages, from the structural timber frame through to all the internal finishing work. For smaller domestic projects, a skilled carpenter can make a significant difference to the quality and character of your home.

Typical Costs in the UK

Carpenters generally charge between £150 and £250 per day for labour. Fitting a set of internal doors costs around £60–£120 per door. Installing a full set of skirting boards and architraves in a room typically runs to £200–£400. A bespoke fitted wardrobe can cost anywhere from £800 to £3,000 or more depending on size and specification. Staircase work, particularly refurbishments such as replacing balusters and handrails, typically ranges from £500 to £2,000.

How to Choose the Right Carpenter

Always ask to see examples of finished work, particularly for bespoke or fitted furniture projects. A skilled carpenter should be happy to discuss the materials they plan to use — solid timber, MDF, or a combination — and explain the relative merits for your specific job. Check for membership of the Institute of Carpenters (IOC) or the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). For larger jobs, get a written quote that specifies materials, dimensions, and the agreed finish. A good carpenter takes pride in clean, accurate work, so inspect previous projects carefully before committing.