On average, carpenters charge $410-$1,753 for their projects, according to Thumbtack data. Keep in mind the estimate is based on national averages and the total price for your carpentry project will depend on what you want to build or repair, the cost of materials, how long it takes to complete the project, and many other factors.
Carpentry project costs
| National average rate | $410-$1,753 |
|---|
| Low-end hourly rate | $146 |
| High-end hourly rate | $4,940 |
As a homeowner, there are times when you may need the help of a professional carpenter. Whether you want to build a gazebo, install custom cabinetry, or repair a wooden door, shelves, deck, or window, a carpenter can help. In addition to building, most carpenters will also be able to paint, sand, and stain wood. If you've decided your current woodworking project isn't a DIY job, research prices and gather estimates before hiring a professional.
Average costs for carpentry services.
In the table below, you'll find the national average total cost of different types of residential carpentry services:
| General carpentry | $569-$2,175 |
|---|
| Framing carpentry | $1,528-$6,175 |
| Trim or molding installation | $515-$1,731 |
| Cabinetry | $621-$2,076 |
| Custom furniture building | $697-$2,657 |
What affects the total cost to hire a carpenter?
In addition to a carpenter's hourly rate, the total cost for carpentry services will depend on the project type, whether or not you're supplying the materials, and how long it takes. Some contractors may also charge an additional fee to cover travel time and transportation expenses.
Materials directly affects the cost of a carpentry project. If you already purchased wood, hardware, and other materials needed for a job, the total price will go down. If not, you can ask the carpenter to buy it for you. This will be added to your final bill. Also, keep in mind that more expensive woods — such as teak, walnut, or mahogany — can increase the overall cost of the job.
Carpenters who need to travel to a job site may charge a fee to cover their travel time and transportation expenses. Many have woodworking shops and unless there is a need for installation, customers can save money by dropping off or picking up furniture items themselves.
General carpentry cost breakdown.
Different types of carpentry services cost different amounts. For example, it will be far less expensive to repair crown molding inside your home than to build a new deck or porch.
Below are some common general carpentry services and national average costs for each:
| General carpentry services needed | National average cost range |
|---|
| Application of finishes (sanding, staining, painting) | $537-$2,053 |
| Complete renovation of existing structure | $772-$2,949 |
| New custom building or construction | $716-$2,737 |
| Repair of minor cracks, gaps, or holes | $294-$1,125 |
| Replacement of portions of existing structure | $534-$2,039 |
Here are the national average costs of general carpentry services for different areas of the home:
| Areas needing general carpentry help | National average cost range |
|---|
| Baseboards and/or crown molding | $554-$2,116 |
| Cabinets, shelves, or bookcases | $543-$2,073 |
| Deck, porch, or balcony | $859-$3,283 |
| Door | $444-$1,697 |
| Furniture | $407-$1,554 |
| Garage, carport, or shed | $661-$2,525 |
| Gazebo or pergola | $775-$2,962 |
| Outdoor animal enclosure | $640-$2,445 |
| Soffit or fascia | $676-$2,584 |
| Stairs | $644-$2,462 |
| Walls | $702-$2,683 |
| Windows | $624-$2,384 |
Pro tip: If you need a carpenter for a larger construction project, you'll likely work with a general contractor to source a specialist. This cost will also be a line item on the overall project, rather than a separate expense.
Framing carpentry cost breakdown.
Some carpenters specialize in framing projects. Here's a look at the national average costs for various framing carpentry services:
| What do you need framed? | National average cost range |
|---|
| Closet | $1,501-$6,064 |
| House | $5,196-$20,993 |
| New room | $2,281-$9,215 |
| Reframe a wall to accommodate new door or window | $1,374-$5,554 |
| Roof | $1,499-$6,058 |
| Shed | $1,546-$6,245 |
| Wall | $1,470-$5,939 |
How much does it cost to hire a carpenter to build custom furniture?
The average national cost to build custom furniture ranges widely from $697-$2,657. The total cost often depends on labor and the cost of materials for the project. Here are some examples of custom furniture projects and their national average costs, according to Thumbtack data:
| Furniture type | National average cost range |
|---|
| Bookcases | $974-$3,714 |
| Coffee table | $603-$2,300 |
| Desk | $680-$2,594 |
| Dining chair | $639-$2,438 |
| Dining table | $462-$1,761 |
| Newel posts | $715-$2,726 |
| Rails | $684-$2,609 |
How much do custom cabinets cost?
Custom cabinets cost anywhere from $1,264-$4,723. The total cost of custom cabinets will depend on the material, number and size of cabinets, hardware, and level of customization.
Carpenters often quote cabinet work based on the linear feet of work to be done. For example, a Thumbtack pro in Riverside, New Jersey who builds custom kitchen cabinets charges $200+ per linear foot for custom cabinet work. What do I need to know before for hiring a carpenter?
Before you hire a carpenter, use these tips:
Never pay more than 50% upfront for services. That will help ensure that your workers return to finish the job. Also, do not pay the full 100% until you're satisfied with the job.
Read reviews and look at photos of past projects. Before you hire a contractor to help with your carpentry work, be sure to read reviews from their past clients and check their credentials.
Ask for an estimate. Before the contractor gets started, ask for an estimate on how much you will pay. This is also a good opportunity to ask for options to cut down on the total price, like using a different type of wood or scaling back on custom features.
Find carpenters near you.
Whether you need help building the kitchen cabinets of your dreams, or just want to repair an old and saggy deck, a carpenter can help. To get started, read reviews of carpenters near you on Thumbtack. A note about project costs featured in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.