Choosing Finish Carpentry Subcontractors

Think About:

• Do they specialize in high-end finishes and tight tolerances?

• Can they work with custom millwork and shop-built pieces?

• Who handles:

  • Door installation + hardware

  • Caulking + prep for paint

  • Specialty features (beams, shiplap, wainscot)

• Ability to coordinate w/ painters (handoff needs)

• Comfort working around installed flooring and cabinets

Subs to Select:

• Finish carpentry subcontractor (primary)

• Interior door installer (if separate)

• Stair + handrail installer

• Custom millwork/built-in fabricator

• Beam + feature ceiling installer

Top finish carpenters are detail specialists — choose for quality.

Choosing Finish Carpentry Materials

Think About:

• Design intent from interior designer

• Durability and movement of materials (humidity control)

• Profile consistency across the home

• Paint vs stain → material selection changes

Materials to Select (as applicable):
Trim Profiles:

• Baseboards (height + design)

• Door casings (style + width)

• Window trim packages

• Crown molding + coves

• Specialty profiles for wainscot/paneling

Interior Doors:

• Solid core vs hollow core

• Panel design (shaker/slab/raised)

• Pre-hung or site-built frame

Stair Components:

• Handrails + guardrails

• Balusters (wood/metal/glass interface)

• Treads + risers

• Newel posts

Millwork:

• Built-in shelving + benches

• Timber beams (real or faux)

• Feature walls (shiplap, slat walls)

Hardware:

• Door handles + hinges (style + finish)

• Soft-close features on built-ins

• Cabinet-like hardware for specialty doors

High-quality finishes require premium material prep.

Choosing Tools, Equipment & Protection

Think About:

• Floors already installed → require careful protection

• Dust control near finished products

Tools & Equipment to Select:
Cutting + Installation:

• Miter saw + precision blades

• Nail guns (finish, brad, pin)

• Router + jigs

• Laser levels for straight lines

Protection:

• Ram board and runners

• Corner guards for walls

• Tape for surface protection (painter-safe)

Detail Tools:

• Wood fillers + caulk

• Sanding tools for smoothing joints

The tools define the quality of the final finish.

Choosing Vendors & Supply Sources

Think About:

• Trim profile continuity → source enough for entire house

• Custom profiles might require mill shop lead times

• Door + hardware finish consistency (house-wide)

Vendor Types:

• Millwork supply house

• Interior door suppliers

• Stair component manufacturers

• Hardware suppliers (premium lines included)

• Timber beam and cladding manufacturers

Choose vendors who support match + continuity throughout the house.

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com