Carpenter vs Joiner: What's the difference?

We take a look at the daily responsibilities of both carpentry and joinery, the differences between them, and even vital information you may need if you’re seeking a career in either of these trades.

What are the main responsibilities of a carpenter?

A carpenters work mainly involves installing structural frameworks from top to bottom, from floors and walls all the way to ceilings, roof trusses and staircases. They are responsible for the entire process of building these frameworks, from initial measurements to post installation safety checks and repairs.

Although carpenters do mainly work with wood and timber, they do often work with other materials such as plastic and plasterboard/gypsum boards.

What are the main responsibilities of a joiner?

As the name suggests, a joiner is responsible for joining and constructing components to form the structural framework and furniture that a carpenter will then go on to install.

Joiners also play a role in the design process of these fixtures, ensuring that every project fits the specifications of each project and each client.

What is the difference between a carpenter and a joiner?

While there are some similarities between the two trades, their differences are widespread, from what their work involves even to the location in which their work is carried out.

·         A joiner constructs the elements of a project, while a carpenter installs them

·         A joiner will conduct their work in a workshop, and carpenters will be carrying out their work on-site

·         Joiners often branch out in to constructing the components of fitted furniture, while carpenters usually only work with structural elements

How long does it take to become a carpenter vs a joiner?

The most basic of carpentry qualifications can take 2 years to complete if carried out full time, and 4 years if carried out part time. However, if you’re looking to become a carpenter at the top of the trade, or looking to branch out in to more specialist fields of carpentry, this can take up to 6 years of full time commitment.

When it comes to joinery, the length of time is similar, due to the fact that apprenticeships and other similar training programmes often combine carpentry and joinery.

What is the difference in salary between a carpenter and a joiner?

According to the National Careers Service, carpentry and joinery are within the same job group, therefore the salary range given is the same.

A newly qualified joiner or carpenter will receive an average salary of £17,000 per year, while an experienced or specialist carpenter or joiner’s average salary sits at around £38,000 per year.

However, depending on the company these tradespeople work for, or if they choose to go freelance or self-employed, these figures will vary.

Both carpenters and joiners provide essential services when it comes to the construction of both important structural framework and various items of furniture in both commercial and domestic environments, and it is important to distinguish between the two when it comes to both hiring choices, and potential career paths.