Best woodworkers near Hampton, AR

While you may have heard people use millwork and carpentry interchangeably, they aren’t the same. Millwork is a type of carpentry, which means that carpentry isn’t always millwork. You can tell millwork apart from other types of carpentry because it’s manufactured at a mill. Notably, casework is also confused with millwork. Casework is different because it refers to boxes like cabinets and bookshelves.

The boards between floor joists are called bridging or blocking boards. These are the shortest pieces of wood in the flooring system—with beams being the longest and joists sitting somewhere in the middle—and they serve to reinforce the joists and help provide even support to the flooring above. Bridging specifically helps cut down on uneven and creaking floors in your living area.

Yes, you can find ceiling joists using simple tools if a stud finder isn't available.

Using a hammer requires patience and a keen ear. Gently tap the ceiling in a grid pattern, listening for sound changes. A hollow sound indicates space between joists, while a solid, dull thud suggests a joist. Mark the location with a pencil and confirm by tapping from different angles.

Alternatively, you can use a nail, but this method will leave small holes. You'll feel increased resistance when the nail hits a joist. Mark the spot and repeat the process every 16 or 24 inches to map the joist locations. This method is considered less reliable than using a stud finder.

On average, the cost to hire a carpenter ranges from about $75 to $100 per hour, depending on the type of carpentry, location, size of the job, and skill level of the carpenter. Get quotes from at least three carpenters in your area to determine the best price for your specific project.