Carpenter vs. General Contractor

What’s the difference?  A common question.  The simple answer, a carpenter is a tradesman with a specific skill set and a general contractor acts as a project manager.  Many general contractors are also skilled carpenters.

So what does this mean and who should you call for your project?  It comes down to the scope of the project. 

Smaller projects such as a deck, fireplace mantel, window and/or door replacements, exterior siding or adding trim details to your home, then a skilled carpenter would be the best person to call.  A carpenter works with their hands to build and repair wood or structural elements.

Larger projects such as an addition or a kitchen or bathroom remodel would benefit from a general contractor.  On these larger more complicated projects the general contractor manages and oversees the entire process.  They create building plans, or execute plans of an architect, use their network of skilled tradesmen such as electricians and plumbers to coordinate completion of the project.  

Who do you call?

If you are looking to complete a one off carpentry project such as new or remodeling a deck, updating a fireplace mantel, building bookcases, adding trim details to your home then you call a carpenter.

If you are hoping to complete a larger project such as bathroom remodel, kitchen remodel or larger home structural changes you need a general contractor to manage the job.