How much does a carpenter cost?
Updated 9 Aug 2026
Typical cost per day
£150 – £300
A carpenter in the UK typically charges £150–£300 per day, or £30–£60 per hour. Small jobs like hanging a door or fitting skirting are often priced per item rather than by time.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Carpenter day rate | £150 – £300 |
| Hourly rate | £30 – £60 |
| Hang an internal door | £80 – £180 |
| Fit skirting (per metre) | £10 – £25 |
| Build fitted shelving (alcove) | £250 – £600 |
| Repair/replace a stair spindle | £40 – £90 |
Prices are typical UK guide figures and vary by area, materials and job size. Post your job for real local quotes.
What affects the price?
Whether it's first fix (structural — studwork, joists, door linings) or second fix (the visible finish — doors, skirting, architrave). Second fix is finer work and shows every imperfection, so it takes longer per metre.
Bespoke work made on site costs more than fitting off-the-shelf units, but fits properly in an old house where nothing is square.
Frequently asked questions
Carpenter or joiner — what's the difference?+
Traditionally a joiner makes the timber items in a workshop, and a carpenter fits them on site. Plenty of tradespeople do both.
Do they supply the timber?+
Usually they can, with materials on top of labour. You can supply your own, but then any wastage is at your cost.
Ready to get it done?
Post your carpentry & joinery job free on BidMyJob and local people will bid. No fees, no commission — you pick who you like.