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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.

The pro you need to hire to build your shed depends on the shed you purchase. A local handyman or general contractor can help build a prefab shed for you. However, if you’re looking for a custom shed, contacting a shed builder near you is the best option. Make sure you get quotes from 3 pros to decide on the best pro for your job. 

Wooden soffits, when properly cared for, can last between 10 and 25 years, depending on the type of wood and the climate you live in. Certain wood types will last longer than others, and you might want to consider the cost of replacing soffits when you break down the total project cost. While an initially higher-priced material might seem counterintuitive, it can make more financial sense if you don’t plan on moving. 

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.