Carpenter and Joiner

Carpenters and joiners make, fix and install replacement timber components for a building. This can include structural work, such as roofs, staircases or floors, or the repair/replacement of doors, door frames, skirting boards, architraves and other mouldings.

A bench joiner works in a workshop using a range of different woods to prepare components, such as doors, staircases and windows. Sometimes they may be required to make copies of the original elements.

Carpenters and joiners need an understanding of how wood may be affected in different situations in terms of moisture content, shrinkage and fungal attack. They also need to know how to overcome problems with the way the work is carried out and the quantity of materials needed to do the job.

Working with other craftspeople is part of the job, as may be working closely with the architect or other professionals on particular projects.

Visit our training provider database to find specialist heritage courses in structural carpentry and traditional carpentry and joinery.

For more information on a career as a carpenter/joiner, including qualifications and training in mainstream construction visit Careers Advice.