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  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.4
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon260
    Verified carpentry services reviews

Find Carpenters in Essex

Avatar for Walking Miracle Renovations, LLC

Walking Miracle Renovations, LLC

4.95(
94
)
Approved Pro

Walking Miracle Renovations, LLC

4.95(
94
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: True professional
4 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Walking Miracle Renovation LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"The professional was so helpful with my door problem! He was very knowledgeable and professional."

Connie E on November 2025

Walking Miracle Renovation LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"The professional was so helpful with my door problem! He was very knowledgeable and professional."

Connie E on November 2025


Avatar for Portillo Home Remodeling

Portillo Home Remodeling

4.98(
47
)
Approved Pro

Portillo Home Remodeling

4.98(
47
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers
3 years of experience

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. Call or message us to schedule an estimate today!

"He was on time and did an excellent job with some minor carpentry repairs we needed done. Mr. Portillo was very polite and did exactly as we asked. He was very thorough in completing the work. "

Kathleen L on December 2025

Our mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. Call or message us to schedule an estimate today!

"He was on time and did an excellent job with some minor carpentry repairs we needed done. Mr. Portillo was very polite and did exactly as we asked. He was very thorough in completing the work. "

Kathleen L on December 2025


Avatar for JD Michael Construction Inc

JD Michael Construction Inc

4.91(
57
)
Approved Pro

JD Michael Construction Inc

4.91(
57
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
37 years of experience

Since 1989, JD Michael Construction has provided professional contracting experience, and is committed to exceeding your expectations. We provide full-service Remodeling and Contracting Services, specializing in Kitchen Renovations. We will work with you directly to understand your vision and priorities, and provide you with a hassle-free experience that will increase the value and enjoyment of your home. We provide only the highest quality craftsmanship and materials at honest prices. With customizable services to match your unique style and needs, we are your one-stop-shop for any renovation project you have in mind. We also specialize in Bathroom and Basement Renovations, as well as most Home Improvement projects such as Carpentry, Flooring, Concrete, Driveways, Porches, Painting, and more! Give us a call today for a phone consultation, and to schedule your estimate. We look forward to speaking with you about your ideas and providing the solutions you need!

"Outstanding workmanship and professionalism! Joe and his crew were meticulous in the work they did and in keeping the area neat and organized. I was always kept up to date on progress and always informed on what to expect with scheduled deliveries. Joe and his crew were always on time and the attention to detail was just excellent. Highly recommend!!!"

Mary B on March 2025

Since 1989, JD Michael Construction has provided professional contracting experience, and is committed to exceeding your expectations. We provide full-service Remodeling and Contracting Services, specializing in Kitchen Renovations. We will work with you directly to understand your vision and priorities, and provide you with a hassle-free experience that will increase the value and enjoyment of your home. We provide only the highest quality craftsmanship and materials at honest prices. With customizable services to match your unique style and needs, we are your one-stop-shop for any renovation project you have in mind. We also specialize in Bathroom and Basement Renovations, as well as most Home Improvement projects such as Carpentry, Flooring, Concrete, Driveways, Porches, Painting, and more! Give us a call today for a phone consultation, and to schedule your estimate. We look forward to speaking with you about your ideas and providing the solutions you need!

"Outstanding workmanship and professionalism! Joe and his crew were meticulous in the work they did and in keeping the area neat and organized. I was always kept up to date on progress and always informed on what to expect with scheduled deliveries. Joe and his crew were always on time and the attention to detail was just excellent. Highly recommend!!!"

Mary B on March 2025


Avatar for VKB Kitchen & Bath

VKB Kitchen & Bath

4.76(
304
)
Approved Pro

VKB Kitchen & Bath

4.76(
304
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers
24 years of experience

VKB Kitchen & Bath is a proud member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). VKB Kitchen & Bath is also insured, licensed (class A), and bonded, and we are here to make sure that each and every project we work on is as spectacular as it is functional.

"Project Management Issues & Pending Renovation Work. I 100% agree with one of the previous reviews and, unfortunately, am experiencing the same issues that have caused unnecessary delays and frustration. While the quality of work itself is good, the project management leaves much to be desired. My bathroom renovation started on December 1st, 2025, with a promised completion time of two weeks. It has now been almost a month, and the project is still not finished. I would admit that I am responsible for one week delay in replacing a bathtub. Throughout this process, I have received little to no communication ? no daily updates and not even consistent weekly updates ? regarding the timeline or the scope of work being completed. This lack of communication from the project manager, Orkhan, has caused unnecessary delays and frustration. Coordinating with both the crew and management has been extremely difficult, and the project manager?s attitude has at times been rude and unprofessional. "

Vera B on December 2025

VKB Kitchen & Bath is a proud member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). VKB Kitchen & Bath is also insured, licensed (class A), and bonded, and we are here to make sure that each and every project we work on is as spectacular as it is functional.

"Project Management Issues & Pending Renovation Work. I 100% agree with one of the previous reviews and, unfortunately, am experiencing the same issues that have caused unnecessary delays and frustration. While the quality of work itself is good, the project management leaves much to be desired. My bathroom renovation started on December 1st, 2025, with a promised completion time of two weeks. It has now been almost a month, and the project is still not finished. I would admit that I am responsible for one week delay in replacing a bathtub. Throughout this process, I have received little to no communication ? no daily updates and not even consistent weekly updates ? regarding the timeline or the scope of work being completed. This lack of communication from the project manager, Orkhan, has caused unnecessary delays and frustration. Coordinating with both the crew and management has been extremely difficult, and the project manager?s attitude has at times been rude and unprofessional. "

Vera B on December 2025


Avatar for M.E.V. Outdoor Solutions, LLC

M.E.V. Outdoor Solutions, LLC

4.96(
68
)
Approved Pro

M.E.V. Outdoor Solutions, LLC

4.96(
68
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
10 years of experience

At M.E.V. Outdoor Solutions, LLC, we are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of landscaping and hardscaping services that are tailored to each individual property. We pride ourselves on our quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. Call us today!

"They completed a 10 by 14-foot paver patio with a retaining wall on two sides under an existing deck. The project was completed in two days. Marvin told me the names/colors of the materials that would be used so I could view before the project was started. I asked questions at every step and Marvin explained everything that they were doing in detail. I would definitely use them again."

deb b on July 2025

At M.E.V. Outdoor Solutions, LLC, we are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of landscaping and hardscaping services that are tailored to each individual property. We pride ourselves on our quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. Call us today!

"They completed a 10 by 14-foot paver patio with a retaining wall on two sides under an existing deck. The project was completed in two days. Marvin told me the names/colors of the materials that would be used so I could view before the project was started. I asked questions at every step and Marvin explained everything that they were doing in detail. I would definitely use them again."

deb b on July 2025


SMITHWRIGHT HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC

4.91(
105
)
Approved Pro

SMITHWRIGHT HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC

4.91(
105
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
22 years of experience

Smithwright Home Improvement is a general contracting company providing a broad range of home improvement and home repair services in the Suburban Maryland area. I am a company of one and use subcontractors only when absolutely necessary. 99% of the work I take on is performed by me. Smithwright Home Improvement is licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission since 2004 under license# 89597. I've done mostly flat-fee work under contract with the home owner. Small projects, or handyman related work, bills out at $80/hour with a 3 hour minimum. Angie's List customers receive a 10% discount off labor charges that invoice over $500.00. Discounts do not apply to materials cost which are in addition to labor charges. I do not add any additional costs to materials. You pay what I pay. My business, up to now, has grown strictly through referrals from satisfied customers. In the 20 years since I started this business, I have served hundreds of home owners in this area doing everything from simple drywall work to building large room additions and decks. I pride myself in delivering results that far exceed my customer's expectations. (Please note, the nature of my work can make it quite difficult to take phone calls during the day. The last thing I want is to offend anyone by not picking up or not returning phone calls. Please contact me via text at 410-707-5542 or email at [email protected] as well and I will try to respond to you within 24 to 36 hours. Thank you!).

"Great work, fair price, friendly, arrived and completed work on time. Highly recommend."

Kristopher H on December 2025

Smithwright Home Improvement is a general contracting company providing a broad range of home improvement and home repair services in the Suburban Maryland area. I am a company of one and use subcontractors only when absolutely necessary. 99% of the work I take on is performed by me. Smithwright Home Improvement is licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission since 2004 under license# 89597. I've done mostly flat-fee work under contract with the home owner. Small projects, or handyman related work, bills out at $80/hour with a 3 hour minimum. Angie's List customers receive a 10% discount off labor charges that invoice over $500.00. Discounts do not apply to materials cost which are in addition to labor charges. I do not add any additional costs to materials. You pay what I pay. My business, up to now, has grown strictly through referrals from satisfied customers. In the 20 years since I started this business, I have served hundreds of home owners in this area doing everything from simple drywall work to building large room additions and decks. I pride myself in delivering results that far exceed my customer's expectations. (Please note, the nature of my work can make it quite difficult to take phone calls during the day. The last thing I want is to offend anyone by not picking up or not returning phone calls. Please contact me via text at 410-707-5542 or email at [email protected] as well and I will try to respond to you within 24 to 36 hours. Thank you!).

"Great work, fair price, friendly, arrived and completed work on time. Highly recommend."

Kristopher H on December 2025


Avatar for JL Smith Repair & Remodeling

JL Smith Repair & Remodeling

4.91(
32
)
Approved Pro

JL Smith Repair & Remodeling

4.91(
32
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 96% of Angi customers
Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers
31 years of experience

We make home beautiful one room at a time for our customers that are on a budget. We specialize in all phases of remodeling for your home, business, bathrooms, kitchens, finishing basements, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! We accept cash, checks, Master card and Visa for payment.

"I hired Joe for a whole house project, and I highly recommend his work. The qualify of work is excellent, and his rates are reasonable. Joe was partner throughout the process, and he was meticulous in putting together proposals each time I made an additional request or we uncovered pre-existing issues that required repair. Joe is a good man, and I am extremely fortunate that I found him."

Frederick D on November 2024

We make home beautiful one room at a time for our customers that are on a budget. We specialize in all phases of remodeling for your home, business, bathrooms, kitchens, finishing basements, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! We accept cash, checks, Master card and Visa for payment.

"I hired Joe for a whole house project, and I highly recommend his work. The qualify of work is excellent, and his rates are reasonable. Joe was partner throughout the process, and he was meticulous in putting together proposals each time I made an additional request or we uncovered pre-existing issues that required repair. Joe is a good man, and I am extremely fortunate that I found him."

Frederick D on November 2024


"Had three walls in Master bedroom closet done as well as kitchen pantry. I was very happy with work and value. I was able to add shelving and customize."

Heather J on December 2020

Manufactures and installs custom closets, home offices, garage storage, pantries, wall units & storage cabinetry. Award winning. Additional DBA - Caron Designs Inc.

"Had three walls in Master bedroom closet done as well as kitchen pantry. I was very happy with work and value. I was able to add shelving and customize."

Heather J on December 2020


Avatar for JW Home Improvement

JW Home Improvement

4.39(
5,504
)
Approved Pro

JW Home Improvement

4.39(
5,504
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
25 years of experience
Warranties offered

JWHI provides world-class customer service with consistent and superior workmanship. We strive to be the trusted market leader in the home improvement industry. Proudly, we are Super Service Award Winner for over a decade, and we plan to keep that streak going! Contact us today to discuss your next handyman or remodeling project. Our mission is to provide you with a happy home improvement experience!

"Made appointment for them to come over for an estimate (which they charge for) between 9-12 today. They are a no show. I wasted the whole morning on them. DO NOT recommend."

Jeff H on October 2025

JWHI provides world-class customer service with consistent and superior workmanship. We strive to be the trusted market leader in the home improvement industry. Proudly, we are Super Service Award Winner for over a decade, and we plan to keep that streak going! Contact us today to discuss your next handyman or remodeling project. Our mission is to provide you with a happy home improvement experience!

"Made appointment for them to come over for an estimate (which they charge for) between 9-12 today. They are a no show. I wasted the whole morning on them. DO NOT recommend."

Jeff H on October 2025


Avatar for Step It Up Construction

Step It Up Construction

4.85(
75
)
Approved Pro

Step It Up Construction

4.85(
75
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
23 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Step It Up Construction, LLC, based in Pasadena, Maryland, is your trusted partner for high-quality residential and commercial improvements. We specialize in roofing, gutters, siding, windows, doors, kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms, porches, decks, and home additions to enhance your living space. For businesses, we offer expert commercial renovations, tenant build-outs, retail space upgrades, office remodeling, and exterior improvements to create functional and modern work environments. In addition, we handle insurance work, assisting homeowners and business owners with storm damage repairs, insurance claims, and restoration projects to ensure properties are restored to their best condition. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship with a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Whether you're improving your home, upgrading your business, or recovering from damage, Step It Up Construction, LLC has you covered. Schedule your FREE estimate today!

"Quick & efficient "

Barbara M on June 2025

Step It Up Construction, LLC, based in Pasadena, Maryland, is your trusted partner for high-quality residential and commercial improvements. We specialize in roofing, gutters, siding, windows, doors, kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms, porches, decks, and home additions to enhance your living space. For businesses, we offer expert commercial renovations, tenant build-outs, retail space upgrades, office remodeling, and exterior improvements to create functional and modern work environments. In addition, we handle insurance work, assisting homeowners and business owners with storm damage repairs, insurance claims, and restoration projects to ensure properties are restored to their best condition. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship with a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Whether you're improving your home, upgrading your business, or recovering from damage, Step It Up Construction, LLC has you covered. Schedule your FREE estimate today!

"Quick & efficient "

Barbara M on June 2025

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Carpentry questions, answered by experts

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.

Begin by analyzing the blueprints and gathering the proper materials before framing a house. With the prep stages behind you, begin by framing the floor of a house on the newly set foundation. Exterior and interior walls come next, along with rough openings for doors and windows. Contractors will then add ceiling and roof rafters to finish things off. 

You can use a nail to find ceiling joists, but it’s not as reliable as a stud finder, and you’ll end up with lots of small holes in your ceiling. If the nail hits a joist, you'll feel increased resistance. Mark the spot with a pencil. Repeat this process regularly along the ceiling, 16 or 24 inches apart, until you've mapped out the joist locations.

Framing a house with steel generally takes less time—around five to eight weeks—than most building materials. The steel components can also be made quickly off-site and manufactured with pre-punched holes for running piping and electrical wiring, which will lessen the prep work and extra labor during construction.

In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.

The Essex, MD homeowners’ guide to carpentry services

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