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Top-Rated Carpenters in Philadelphia - Updated Nov 2026

Grady's Painting Plastering/Construction
2.0(
174
)
Exterior Shutters - Repair or RestoreWindow Frame - Repair

Serving Philadelphia, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1969

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We had cracks in the dyed mortar of the bricks above our garage. Grady took the time to match the color, even with the color having aged 10 years, and you would not even be able to tell that there was new mortar. If your project is anything like ours, you will not be disappointed."
Response time11 hrs
Response rate100%
Recommended by57%of homeowners
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Carpentry FAQs, 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.

Baseboards don’t have to be nailed into studs. However, nailing them into studs adds to their stability. When studs aren’t available, you can secure them with drywall nails directly into the drywall and adhesive. Always aim to nail into studs, especially in high-traffic or impact-prone areas.

Most of the time, you’ll want to use screws on your subfloor rather than nails. Nails can actually weaken plywood, whereas screws can easily penetrate without damage. They also form a more secure connection because of their shape, preventing squeaky floors and tightly holding the subfloor in place. That said, some contractors do prefer nails depending on the type of floor covering because they allow for more flexibility.

Yes, you will need a jack for a rim joist replacement. To prevent sagging and facilitate the removal of load-bearing wood, you’ll need to relieve the pressure from this joint before beginning work. 

Due to hydraulics and other specialized equipment, a sill plate and rim joist replacement are not typically a DIY project. Hiring a professional structural engineer and experienced contractors is the best approach to replacing rotted sill plates and rim joists.

A few signs that you need a new door frame include:

  • The door no longer fits properly in its frame and sticks or scrapes.

  • You notice cracks, holes, or rotting.

  • You feel a draft coming from around the door when it’s closed.

  • You find yourself frequently needing to make repairs.

The Philadelphia, NY homeowners’ guide to carpentry services

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