Carpentry

Most home improvement projects involve some carpentry. Having a basic understanding of carpentry and the carpenter tools necessary for typical home projects will make everything go smoother - start to finish.

TOOLS

Basic carpentry tools for home improvement projects:

HAND TOOLS
Measuring tape
Carpenter Pencil
Chalk Line
Level
Plumb Bob
Framing Square
Combination Square
Handsaw
Backsaw
Miter Box
Drywall Saw
Keyhole Saw
Coping Saw
Claw Hammer
Wood Chisel
Awl
Nail Set
Phillips Head Screwdrivers
Straight Slotted Screwdrivers
Wood Plane
Rasp
Wood File
Wrenches
Pliers
Vice Grips
Channel Locks
Wire Cutters
Drywall tools
C-Clamps
Adjustable Clamps
Caulking Gun
Tool Belt
Carpenter Apron

POWER TOOLS
Electric Drill
Cordless Drill
Saber Saw
Circular Saw
Cordless Electric Screwdriver
Router
Electric Sander
Table Saw
Radial Arm Saw
Miter Cut-off Saw
Bench Grinder
Table Belt Sander

SUPPLIES
A variety of Sandpaper
A Variety of Nails
A Variety of Screws, Bolts, Nuts and Washers
Carpenters Glue
A Supply of Wooden Dowels


Learn to use each of the tools listed. Follow manufacturers instructions for use and safety. Practice using the tools on scrap materials before making that all-important cut on your quality materials.

WOOD AND MATERIALS

Spend time with a lumber expert learning the various types and cuts of wood. Knowing the correct wood for the project will make your job easier and the project will be more durable.

Nuts, bolts, screws and washers will come into play with many of your carpentry projects. Once you select the wood and other materials, choose the proper screws and bolts to make your project sturdy, without over-doing it. Screws should be selected so as to not split the wood. If you are debating between two sizes, go with the smaller and add length or use more screws.

The key to most carpentry projects is to have a clear plan, measure very carefully and make sure all cuts and joints are square. Use clamps to hold the pieces together while you measure and assemble.

Check your work often as you go for square and plumb. Once it gets off kilter, it's difficult to correct. Keep a supply of shims to adjust level between pieces of wood and/or the floor or wall.

SAFETY

With all power tools, safety should be your number one concern. Protect your eyes with safety glasses. Keep the work area clean to protect your project from dents and dings.

CUTTING

When cutting wood by hand or with power saws, a slow, steady, smooth pace will result in better cuts, fits and joints. You may want to cut the piece an extra 64th of an inch long so you have room to clean up a rough cut, if necessary.

DRILLING

When drilling be sure the drill is continually cutting and chips are clearing from the drill. Remove the drill from the hole and allow it to disperse chips that are packing into the drill flutes. This will keep the drill from over-heating and avoid burnt spots on the wood. Use water to cool the drill bit when drilling into concrete or other hard materials.

NAILING

Before nailing, determine the requirements for the nail and select the best nail for the job. If the surface is going to show, take extra caution to avoid marring the surface. Use a nail set to drive the nail below the surface of the wood, to be covered with filler at a later time.

GLUING

Using carpenters glue in joint will increase strength and sturdiness. Generally speaking, if it is applied properly and tightly clamped during construction, the glue will be stronger than the nails or screws used for assembly. Tight fitting, clean surfaces provide the best gluing surfaces. Always allow the glue to thoroughly dry before removing clamps. See glue manufacturers instructions. Using dowels in conjunction with glue make for a very strong joint.

LAMINATES

Once the frame or shell of the project is completed, you can apply a variety of laminates to the surface for appearance and/or durability. Follow the manufacturers advice when selecting adhesives and apply as recommended. Be sure to press the laminate tightly against the frame surface for long-lasting adhesion. Laminates should be cut slightly oversize and trimmed after the adhesive is completely set. Depending on the laminate, you may trim with a router, saw, grinder or sander.

FINISHING

Use caulking compounds and wood fillers to fill nail holes and cracks, chips and corners. Allow to set completely before sanding. There are many techniques to use when sanding the final product. Start with a course paper and work your way to a fine paper for a smooth finish. If the wood will be stained, always sand with the grain as opposed to cross grain. This will avoid sanding marks showing in the stain pattern.

You may need to do multiple coats of filling and sanding before achieving the smooth finish you desire.

Related Books & Publications

Related Websites

Education Portal - Carpentry School

Resources

Related Subjects

Blackjack Carpenter Tools