Get matched with top carpenters in Trenton, IL

Q: Do joists sit on beams?

• <div><p>Joists do distribute their load to beams, but they don&rsquo;t sit on top of the beams. Instead, home builders nail or screw the joists directly to the beams such that the end of the joist butts up against the edge of the beam. Beams can sit on other beams for support, but you&rsquo;ll never see a joist sitting on top of a beam or another joist.</p></div>

Q: Are porch columns load bearing?

• <div><p>Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-do-i-find-out-if-column-between-foyer-dining-room-living-room-decorative-or-load.htm">ways to identify a load-bearing column</a>, like looking for visible seams and a foundation. Also, check to see if the column directly enters the ground. In some porch installations, a contractor will excavate a hole to install a column into the earth along with a buried cement base for stability.</p></div>

Q: How can I find ceiling joists using simple tools like a hammer or a nail?

• <div><p>Yes, you can find ceiling joists using simple tools if a stud finder isn't available.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Can you extend the length of your garage?

• <div><p>Homeowners can increase the usefulness of their garage space in other ways, and one option is to extend the length of the garage by making it deeper. The process is similar to traditional garage extensions, but the end product is a garage with a different layout rather than additional parking spaces. </p></div>

Q: Are ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Carpentry pros in Trenton, IL

*The Angi rating for Carpentry companies in Trenton, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Carpentry needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Carpentry companies in Trenton, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Carpentry needs.

Last update on February 11, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Gary and his crew did a great job replacing my front porch, would recommend them for any deck work needed.
Casey Construction
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Reviewed in September 2025
He did a fantastic job on all of my rooms. He had to take wall paper down and mud it was a lot of work . My walls look amazing very pleased with his work. He was very polite and always on time and cleaned up after himself. I am a very satisfied customer
Quality Finishes Arbogast Painting
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Reviewed in August 2025
The house feels so clean! Stephanie is so thorough, arrived on time, and is easy to work with our schedule and needs. She remembers all my specific requests and is very professional. We set up our next appointment before she left for the day.
FIRST RESOLUTION CLEANING SERVICES LLC
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Reviewed in January 2025
Recovery Roofing did an amazing job! We started with my roof and had them continue to come out and help with more! Very efficient, affordable and always does an amazing job!
Recovery Roofing Solutions
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Reviewed in September 2024
I couldnâ t be happier with my experience using National Van Lines. What stood out was their flexibility, due to a last-minute schedule change on my end, I had to reschedule the move, and they were incredibly accommodating. The movers remained professional and positive despite the shift, and...
National Van Lines, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2024
I had messed up the mudding and sanding in the bathroom in my newly finished basement, so I hired ENE to fix it. Elijah was very professional and friendly. The end result was a bathroom that I am excited to show off to visitors. The $ was reasonable too. He even gave me a few pointers on how...
E.G. Interior Remodeling
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Reviewed in May 2024
They worked fast and efficient. The yard and landscaping was all cleaned up and hauled away. It was worth the money. They was on time. Which was so nice. I would hire them again. Very professional.
Mirror Image Property Appearance LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Kenny was a great listener to the problem I was having with my fence Solved the problem in good time Would hire again
Kenny's Construction
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Reviewed in October 2023
Well’s roofing made contact with approximate time of arrival. Was punctual being on time. Nelson well groomed, polite. Evaluated the problem gave two estimates, and suggested which one to use if I were in agreement. Nelson did repairs on a timely matter without leaving with Rick highly recommend...
Wells Roofing and Painting
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Reviewed in February 2023
Punctuality was excellent, as were customer service and cleanliness. They did a great job in my home.
Garrido Remodeling, LLC
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Find Carpenters in Trenton

Architectural Designs by Nathan

5.0(

)

Furniture - Build Custom

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Outstanding work! He listens to his clients concerns and addressed them during installation. A very good person to work with!"

+20

Response time1 day

Response rate91%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Interior Trim and Decorative Moldings - InstallCarpentry Framing - InstallWood Stairs and Railings - Install or Replace+14 more

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Vinc built a 16x12 gazebo on our patio. We love it! Great job!"

Response time2 days

Response rate90%

78 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Sharp Homes

New to Angi

Carpentry Framing - InstallCarpentry Framing - RepairGazebo or Freestanding Porch - Repair+1 more

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

I have 10 years of experience in rough framing carpentry. I do decks, basement framing, full home framing, etc. I promise high quality at the lowest price. Give me a call at 3145415667

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Jbr contracting LLc

New to Angi

Wood Stairs and Railings - Install or ReplaceInterior Trim and Decorative Moldings - RepairWood Stairs and Railings - Repair+7 more

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

I have 25 years of carpentry experience.\nI am a hard working individual.\nI specialize in all interior and exterior work.

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"They were a group of people that always made you smile, and while listening to them when I was working in my office you could hear them laughing they enjoy what they re doing. I will have them back to do more. They re a great group of people they have come into your home because your house the way you want it"

Response time2 days

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Carpentry Framing - Install

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Found Sentri on Angi. Jeanette and Violet were very pleasant and efficient in getting a contractor to me in the time frame needed. The contractor was excellent and the roof looks great! I would definitely work with them again if I had additional projects."

26 neighbors recently requested a quote

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CS BUILDERS

New to Angi

Carpentry Framing - InstallCarpentry Framing - RepairDeck or Porch - Repair

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2000

Free estimates

It can be a daunting task looking for not only the right contractor for your job but also the right contractor for you. We completely understand what you're going through. We know every customer has different desires, different needs and different schedules. We're not only here to turn your ideas into reality but to make it a memorable experience every step of the way. Call us right now, no matter where you are in the planning process.\n

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Denico

New to Angi

Carpentry Framing - InstallCarpentry Framing - RepairCloset - Build

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

I’m very handy! Trust me

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Prices Drywall Finishing

New to Angi

Arbor, Pergola or Trellis - Build Custom - For BusinessCarpentry Framing - InstallCarpentry Framing - Repair+11 more

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

I do a wide variety of things from framing, hanging drywall, mud/tape, painting, trim, tile, LVP, cabinets, and doors.

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C-MAC Development, LLC

New to Angi

Deck or Porch - Repair

Serving Trenton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

C-MAC Development, LLC offers quality services to clients at reasonable prices. Our courteous staff has the professional tools and experience necessary to help with all your needs. We specialize in interior and exterior painting, kitchen and bath remodels, flooring, window installations, fences and decks. Call today to get in touch with our staff, and to learn more about what we have to offer!

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Showing 1-10 of 142

Carpentry questions, answered by experts

Joists do distribute their load to beams, but they don’t sit on top of the beams. Instead, home builders nail or screw the joists directly to the beams such that the end of the joist butts up against the edge of the beam. Beams can sit on other beams for support, but you’ll never see a joist sitting on top of a beam or another joist.

Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are ways to identify a load-bearing column, like looking for visible seams and a foundation. Also, check to see if the column directly enters the ground. In some porch installations, a contractor will excavate a hole to install a column into the earth along with a buried cement base for stability.

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.

Homeowners can increase the usefulness of their garage space in other ways, and one option is to extend the length of the garage by making it deeper. The process is similar to traditional garage extensions, but the end product is a garage with a different layout rather than additional parking spaces.

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

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