Cost of Carpentry & Joinery Work in the UK (2025)
Carpenters handle everything from fitting a door to building bespoke fitted furniture. Day rates run £200–£350, with larger bespoke projects costing several thousand pounds.
First fix vs second fix carpentry
First fix carpentry covers structural work done before plastering — floor joists, stud walls, roof timbers. Second fix carpentry is everything after plastering — doors, skirting, architrave, staircases, and fitted furniture. Most domestic jobs are second fix.
Bespoke vs off-the-shelf
A carpenter can fit off-the-shelf items like IKEA wardrobes or pre-hung doors quickly and cheaply. Bespoke fitted furniture — alcove shelving, under-stairs storage, built-in wardrobes — takes longer but adds significant value to your home.
Cost Breakdown
All prices are indicative UK averages for 2025. Actual costs vary by location, specification, and contractor. London and South East rates are typically 20–35% higher.
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Hang a door | £80 | £150 |
| Fit skirting (per room) | £150 | £300 |
| Fit staircase | £1,500 | £4,000 |
| Bespoke fitted wardrobe | £800 | £3,000 |
| Alcove shelving | £300 | £800 |
| Day rate | £200 | £350 |
What Affects the Cost?
- ✓Whether the work is bespoke or fitting standard items
- ✓Quality of materials specified
- ✓Complexity of design and access
- ✓Location — London rates are higher
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Post a Job — It's FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a carpenter and a joiner?
Joiners typically work in a workshop making items like doors, windows, and staircases. Carpenters install these items on site. In practice, most tradespeople describe themselves as carpenter-joiners and do both.
Do I need to supply materials?
You can supply your own materials or ask your carpenter to include them in the quote. For bespoke work, the carpenter will usually source materials directly.