A carpenter is a craftsman skilled in woodwork. There are several categories of carpentry, each involving a different skill set, so a carpenter might be adept at only one or several types of woodworking skills.

Rough carpentry: A rough carpenter performs work that does not require a finishing touch. Framing and roofing are two of the most common examples, hence roofers and framers are rough carpenters. They are skilled in quickly erecting skeletal structures of buildings, including beams, rafters and other large-scale work.

Finish carpentry: The opposite of rough carpentry, a finish carpenter might be skilled at making items like fine furniture, inlays, architectural models, or finely crafted wood instruments. The finish carpenter excels at extremely fine measurements and intricate, beautiful woodwork.

Cabinetry: Many craftsmen specialize in cabinetry. A carpenter that is a cabinetmaker will have a skill set that combines an element of rough carpentry with an element of finish carpentry all aimed towards cabinetry. A cabinetmaker can design and build a completely unique, functional and stylish set of cabinets for any kitchen, galley or office.

Trim carpentry: A trim carpenter specializes in moldings and other trims to spruce up a room. This includes baseboards, window trims, ceiling trim and mantles. It can also include cabinetry.

Ship carpentry: A ship’s carpenter is skilled at nautical carpentry and familiar with all phases of shipbuilding. A yachtsman might hire a ship’s carpenter to remodel a stateroom or repair a hull. Freighters or cruise ships normally keep a ship’s carpenter employed as a permanent hand in case repairs or maintenance is needed at sea.

A skilled carpenter can be the answer to a poorly designed room with too little closet space, or a kitchen with too few cabinets. If you’d like a cedar dresser with deep drawers, a carpenter can design one for you to the exact dimensions of the available space. In some cases the cost of hiring a carpenter is comparable to buying ready-made products from an outlet that are lesser in quality. Why not have a specially designed, professionally made piece for the same amount of money?

If hiring a carpenter to frame an addition or do any substantial building, be aware that city building permits might have to be obtained, and inspections might be called for. Before agreeing to a job it’s wise to get the quote in writing and ask for a business license and local references.