The Difference Between a Carpenter and a Joiner

What’s The Difference Between a Carpenter and a Joiner?

What’s the Difference Between a Carpenter and a Joiner? Believe it or not, it depends on where in the country you are!

In its simplest form, in the South West UK a Carpenter constructs the building elements on-site and a joiner ‘joins’ wood and timber in a workshop. Northern UK terms do slightly reverse these roles.

What Jobs Does A Carpenter Do?

Making wooden doors/ window frames
Creating fitted furniture/ reception counters etc.
Acoustic panels and mouldings
Making stair flights

What Common Tasks Do Carpentry Contractors Carry Out?

• Fitting floor structures and floors
• Fitting timber roof structures
• Fitting wooden cabinet frames and kitchens
• Fitting staircases
• Fitting door frames, doors, ironmongery
• Fixing window frames
• Installing cupboards and shelving

What does it take to be one of the best carpenters in Somerset, South West UK?

All of our carpenters naturally learn about joinery during their career, and if you’re looking to discover how to join the woodworking industry, either to earn a wage to live, or with the aspirations to strike up on your own for the domestic market, we’ve researched the ways for you to make this happen in Somerset or any other location in England.

Carpentry training in England typically takes place through apprenticeships, which provide a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprenticeships are a common way for individuals to learn the skills and knowledge needed to become a qualified carpenter, while also earning a wage and gaining practical experience.

To become an apprentice carpenter in England, individuals typically need to have achieved a certain level of education, such as a GCSE or A-level in woodwork, design and technology, or another related subject. They may also need to pass a basic skills test, such as a math or literacy assessment.

In England, there are several accreditations and exams that students can study to qualify as a carpenter, ranging from novice to professionally recognised. Here is a list of some of the most common qualifications in 2023:

• GCSE or A-level in woodwork, design and technology, or another related subject: These are entry-level qualifications that provide a foundation in the basic skills and knowledge needed for carpentry.
• Level 1 and Level 2 diplomas in carpentry: These are vocational qualifications that cover a range of carpentry skills, such as measuring and marking out, cutting and shaping materials, and fixing and finishing.