Studiemateriale

§Study guide: Building carpenter

This study guide brings together the central concepts in the carpentry trade. Use it to get an overview when you revise.

Joinery vs. carpentry

The carpenter does the load-bearing rough work; the joiner does the fine precision work: windows, doors, stairs, panels and fittings. Two related but independent trades.

Wood as a living material

Wood works with humidity — it shrinks when dry and expands when wet. Therefore the material must be dried to the correct moisture content, and joints must tolerate the movement.

Materials to know

• 01Softwood (spruce, fir): light and versatile.
• 02PLACEHOLDER_57
• 03Plywood: veneer layers on cross, strong and stable
• 04Chipboard and MDF: large, stable surfaces for furniture

Work process

• 01Drawing and measuring — measure twice, cut once
• 02Cutting: straightening, planing, milling/planing
• 03Assembly: mortise/tenon, dowels or lamellae — dry assembly first
• 04Gluing, sanding and surface treatment
• 05Assembly and adjustment on site

Safety to remember

• 01Guards in place, push-sticks for small items
• 02Hearing protection when machines are running — hearing loss is permanent
• 03Eye and respiratory protection, extraction against wood dust
• 04Sharp tools so you don't have to press