The duties of carpenters vary by type of employer. A carpenter employed by a special trade contractor, for example, may specialize in setting forms for concrete construction, while one who is employed by a general building contractor may perform many tasks, such as framing walls and partitions, putting in doors and windows, and installing paneling. Although each carpentry task is somewhat different, most tasks involve the following steps. Local building codes often dictate where certain materials can and cannot be used, and carpenters have to know these requirements. Carpenters cut and shape materials, such as wood, plastic, fiberglass, and drywall with hand and power tools, such as chisels, planes, saws, and drills.
Carpenters then joint the materials with nails, screws, or glue.
They check the accuracy of their work with levels, rules, plumb bobs, and framing squares. Carpenters may work in teams or be assisted by a helper. In all assignments, carpenters must work quickly, accurately, and economically. Taking too much time can delay other steps in the project, and careless mistakes waste time and materials. Some carpenters are employed outside the construction industry in installation and maintenance work.