Everything you need to know about finding a Joiner

Joiners assemble prepared wood components into structures and fittings. In simple terms, joinery involves making and fitting doors and windows, staircases and handrails, built-in wardrobes, and architraves and skirting boards. Read on for more information about joiners and joinery:

What Joiners Do

Joiners are involved in non-structural timber work and this is the primary difference from carpenters. As well as working with timber, joiners can also work with metal or timber composites. Projects they assist with include:

• Bathrooms: If you are undergoing a bathroom renovation or revamp, a joiner can assist by selecting timber products for the project, crafting the material, installing the furniture and fitting fixtures and accessories. See bathroom joinery for more info.
  
  
• Furniture: Joiners provide a customised service to craft custom-made furniture to suit your space. They will typically create a range of furniture items and fittings for the home including benchtops, work surfaces, window frames, shelving and cupboards. For more information see furniture joinery.
  
  
• Kitchen: Joiners work with clients to configure the design of the kitchen and maximise storage space. So whether you need cupboards, shelves or drawers designed, a joiner is the professional for the job. For more information see kitchen joinery.
  
  
• Shop and office fitouts: Joinery is an essential component of shop and office fitouts and involves working to customised plans, with comprehensive input from the client. Fitouts are governed by a number of regulations to ensure the fitout complies with safety standards. For more see joinery - shop and office fitouts.
  
  
• Windows and doors: Joiners can fashion window frames and doors according to your specifications. Timber window and door frames are a popular choice, as are PVC and composite designs. See joinery - windows & doors for more info.

Choosing a Joiner

When hiring a carpenter or joiner, be sure to obtain a fixed quote and ask to see their qualifications and license. Also ask to see references or examples of their past work if possible.

How Much do Joiners Cost?

Expect joiners to charge in the region of $45 to $65 per hour, though this can vary widely depending on their skill level and location. Joiners will quote based on the materials they use and the time and effort involved in the job. This will vary depending on the job involved. If you require hardwood timber for your project, expect this to cost considerably more than MDF for example. To save time kitchen joiners will often use a factory outlet to manufacture and cut cabinetry components to size, and then assemble these.