Get matched with top contractors in Leeds, ME

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: How long does it take to frame with metal studs?

• <div><p>Framing with metal studs can be significantly faster than using wooden studs, provided you have some experience working with the material. While you can use virtually instant pneumatic nailers with wood, metal requires installing screws. However, because metal is lighter, straighter, usually comes cut-to-length, and doesn't require sorting for the best pieces, you can save significant time using metal instead of wood. </p></div>

Q: What parts of a house need framing?

• <div><p>The primary <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/parts-of-a-house.htm">parts of a house</a> that need framing during construction are floors, exterior walls, interior walls, and the roof. The framing in these areas provides the skeleton for adding other materials over the top. With walls, for example, contractors can hang drywall over the interior walls and siding over the outside of the exterior walls. Proper framing ensures a sturdy house that is built to last.</p></div>

Q: What is the best angle for bracing?

• <div><p>A cross brace for a fence gate should stretch from the top corner of the gate&rsquo;s hinge side to the bottom corner of its latch side at a 45-degree angle to the bottom of the gate. This positioning distributes the bulk of the gate&rsquo;s weight to the base of the post, taking pressure off the top hinge.</p></div>

Q: Can you remove a load-bearing wall by yourself?

• <div><p>Removing a load-bearing wall is best handled by professionals. However, if you have the skill set and decide to DIY the project, you will still need at least one additional person to assist you. Aside from helping with demolition, you'll need another hand to install the new support beam.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Contractor Service pros in Leeds, ME

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

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

Last update on March 12, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Catlins has done plenty of work for me. Hauling, new landscaping, gravel delivery, carpentry including building a deck, installing sliding glass doors, and much more. Always quality, professional work at reasonable pricing!
Catlins All Year Round
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Reviewed in October 2025
Alic did an amazing job, he showed up every day that the weather cooperated in order to get the job done in a timely manner. The deck was unfinished wood prior to him coming and now it looks incredible! We would definitely hire him again for any other painting needs, interior or exterior!
Avid Painting LLC
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Reviewed in December 2024
I highly recommend Archadeck of Central Maine. The carpenter, Garret, except for a few hours on the first carpentry day and the entire last day, worked on this by himself. He did a phenomenal job! On the last day he was joined by Preston and he did a great job as well. This project had some...
Archadeck of Central Maine
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Reviewed in June 2023
Dominic went out of his way to help us with a small kitchen project that we needed to have done right away. He came after hours and traveled quite a distance from the job site where he had been working as he realized we could not get a refrigerator until some old cupboards were removed. We...
Opulent Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
Exceptional work at an affordable price! We hired Nick to paint our kitchen, hallway and bathroom, which included carpentry work (we removed a built-in ironing board). Nick and his team take great pride in their work and it shows. The results were fantastic! Nick was a pleasure to work with. We...
NVS Affordable Painting
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Reviewed in August 2022
We hired Washburn Carpentry to tear out old deck and build a new deck.he and his dog (Dunkin,who likes dog cookies) did a professional job.Finished on time and on budget. I would highly recommend Washburn carpentry to my friends and family.
Washburn Carpentry Services
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Reviewed in May 2022
Andrew was great! Did very good work, was on time, was honest and polite and actually communicated with us in a timely manner by phone and text which is VERY rare now a days!!! We would absolutely recommend him to anyone as a handyman. He did some assorted outside carpentry for us: installed a...
Nordic Construction
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Reviewed in April 2022
The project came out great. Washburn carpentry built me a very large shed. The job was done professionally and the cost was very fair. The shed has received many compliments from all that have seen it. Washburn carpentry was very clear during all project planning and very helpful in their...
Washburn Carpentry Services
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Reviewed in December 2021
Extremely pleased with work, plus Shanes shill and knowledge. Installed a sink and vanity, with expert skill both carpentry and plumbing.
Noonan's Property Services
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Reviewed in March 2021
He is really one of the best drywall contractors I ever work with, also is an amazing painter and works with carpentry which I was very pleased with it.
Jan Brown Remodeling
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Find Contractors in Leeds

Bellevue Construction Company

5.0(

)

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Customers say: True professional

"Bellevue construction was amazing to work with. They were helpful throughout the whole process and honest and upfront about what needed to be done in order to complete the job properly. Both my wife and I were very impressed with the finished product and with how reasonably priced the whole project was. I will deffinitly be hiring them in the future for other projects on the house!!"

+69

Response time1 day

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Tejada's Remodeling Inc

4.7(

)

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Highly recommended. Jose and Cesar were great. They were reliable and their work was excellent. They completely remodeled our condo including 4 bathrooms, floors, fireplace/hearth, etc. It was a big job and they worked with us to make sure everything came out exactly the way we wanted. The cost was very reasonable."

Response time1 day

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by79%of homeowners

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Kaydn and crew did a great job on my fence. He was prompt to the job site, communicated delays about shipping issues and worked to resolve any problems that popped up during the project. Highly recommend K&A Renovations"

Response time1 day

Response rate89%

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"We had our kitchen completely remodeled by Hutchins and Son. Owner Don is great to work with. He was able to provide us with the exact custom cabinets and custom color we were looking for. I highly recommend Don and his son ."

Response time2 days

Response rate94%

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Customers say: Quality work

"Details perfectly done. Amazing quality work. Already recommended to someone looking for similar."

+82

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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RIDANS HOME MAINTENANCE

3.9(

)

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Did a very good job!"

12 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by57%of homeowners

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"Please be cautious in regards to hiring this contractor. He will provide a contract for both parties to sign, but once the job was completed he requested additional compensation for the work performed and increased the material expenses. I needed to seek legal counsel."

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Doak and Co Contracting

New to Angi

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

We at Doak and Co Contracting focus on quality services over quantity. We use our experience and expertise to complete your project with perfection. Customer service and honesty are the most important aspects of our business and your satisfaction is guaranteed. Please call us today for an estimate. We look forward to working with you.

Response time6 hrs

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Joshua Indermuehle

New to Angi

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

I'm a carpenter, handyman, and Builder with 30 years experience working in and around the Portland area. I can handle anything from small handyman projects to additions and garages, I have a lot of experience doing full remodels, additions, roofing and siding, decks, built-in Cabinetry, and sheds.

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Iron Oak Construction

New to Angi

Serving Leeds, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

Backed by 30 years of residential and commercial building expertise. From excavation to roof installation, we manage every step with precision. Full design‑build services to bring your vision to life

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Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts

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.

Framing with metal studs can be significantly faster than using wooden studs, provided you have some experience working with the material. While you can use virtually instant pneumatic nailers with wood, metal requires installing screws. However, because metal is lighter, straighter, usually comes cut-to-length, and doesn't require sorting for the best pieces, you can save significant time using metal instead of wood.

The primary parts of a house that need framing during construction are floors, exterior walls, interior walls, and the roof. The framing in these areas provides the skeleton for adding other materials over the top. With walls, for example, contractors can hang drywall over the interior walls and siding over the outside of the exterior walls. Proper framing ensures a sturdy house that is built to last.

A cross brace for a fence gate should stretch from the top corner of the gate’s hinge side to the bottom corner of its latch side at a 45-degree angle to the bottom of the gate. This positioning distributes the bulk of the gate’s weight to the base of the post, taking pressure off the top hinge.

Removing a load-bearing wall is best handled by professionals. However, if you have the skill set and decide to DIY the project, you will still need at least one additional person to assist you. Aside from helping with demolition, you'll need another hand to install the new support beam.

The Leeds, ME homeowners’ guide to contractor services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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