Carpentry is the building, remodeling, and repairing of structures. It involves all types of work done by carpenters, including the construction of buildings and parts of buildings. Carpenters also design and assemble cabinets, furniture, and other items. They work with wood, steel, aluminum, plastics, and other materials.
There are two types of carpentry: rough carpentry and finish carpentry. Rough carpenters assemble the frameworks of buildings, install windows and insulation, and place coverings called sheathing and siding on the framework. Finish carpenters do various types of interior work. Their jobs include hanging doors, applying wood trim, installing cabinets, and laying floors. Some carpenters do all building tasks. Others are specialists who build custom cabinets and furniture.
Carpenters must know how to use various hand tools and power tools. Hand tools include chisels, hammers, and planes. Power tools include cordless screwdrivers, power saws, and pneumatic tools, such as air drills and pneumatic nailers. Pneumatic tools are powered by compressed air. Many chemicals are also used in construction. Carpenters must have special technical knowledge to use these chemicals properly and safely.
Carpenters need to know how to read building plans drawn by architects. Some carpenters work directly with a building’s owner to design floor plans. Carpenters often design plans using a computer drafting program called computer-aided design (CAD).
Carpenters should also have a basic understanding of building science. Building science is the study of how buildings behave, including how heat flows through a building. Understanding building science is especially important in constructing buildings that are energy-efficient but also safe and comfortable.
Some carpenters learn their trade through on-the-job training with experienced carpenters. Others attend technical or vocational schools or participate in a formal apprenticeship program.
See also Building science .
