How physically demanding is it to be a carpenter?

Question

I'm looking into a career change, and right now my number one choice is going through an apprenticeship to be a carpenter. Building houses has always fascinated me, and I think its something I would like to do, but the one thing that concerns me right now is how physically strenuous it is overall.

Don't get me wrong, I'm in great shape from playing sports and working out at the gym, and perfectly capable of working hard. I prefer a job where I can be active. I'm even ok if there is an very exhausting day once in a while. I'm just concerned about the possibility that maybe 90% of my job might turn out to be packing heavy. back straining, stuff around all day long.

Perhaps if you are a carpenter yourself, you can tell me the things you like most, and the things you like least.

Thanks.

Answer 1

My father is a general contractor, and I've spent many days on jobsites with him. From what I've seen, it's quite strenuous. Days are normally 7am-4-5pm minimum. All of the materials (beams, plywood sheeting, shingles, etc) have to be moved by hand from where they came off the truck to where they will be assembled, and you do it. There are days where you are doing more detailed work (finishwork, etc), but I'd say most days are fairly challenging physically. Of course, you get used to it. There's nothing quite like seeing something that you built with your own hands.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

I've worked nothing but physically demanding jobs (forestry work for the state, logging, construction) and construction was the least demanding of these. If you are in decent shape, you probably won't even notice the labor most of the time after you get use to it. I set chokers (logging) before and by the end of the season I didn't really notice how hard it was, even though it is extremely demanding.

You're going to start out at the botton. This means moving boards, digging ditches, packing tools, and moving other heavy supplies. This will be the bottom. It gets much easier after this. You'll eventually get the attitude that the job just has to get done, and it becomes pretty easy after that. Like I said, there will be days, like if you have to hang sheetrock on a high ceiling, or something along that nature, but overall it's a pretty enjoyable occupation if you work for a good boss. Give it a try and see how you like it, you'll probably be suprised how quickly you adapt.

Answer 4

I started as a carpenter helper / laborer in 1976. Ive worked in the cold in North Dakota and the heat of Natchez, Mississippi. Ive worked on large commercial project and small residential projects. At times its tough work you get hurt, cuts and bruises mostly. You pull muscles, get blisters, Ive fallen twice.There's the sun in the summer the wind in the winter. I,d say the toughest jobs are the dirt work and roofing. threw it all the good the bad the layoffs the down times, hard jobs and easy, I personally can honestly say I love my work. I enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done and a satisfied customer. I'm almost 50 now and most of my work is interior millwork and some remodeling and if I had to do it all over again I do believe I still be a carpenter. Hope this helps you.

Answer 5

I am not a professional carpenter, but a lot depends on what kind of carpentry you want to do. Framing is generally done by a framing crew, and they don't do any finish work. It is more physically demanding than being a finish carpenter. Finish work can still be demanding but less so than framing. Doing an apprenticeship you can decide which you prefer or are better at.

Answer 6

Yes there are woman carpenters. There are different types of carpenters. Some don't take a lot of strength. Look into the requirements for an apprenticeship though - the program might require a broad experience with all types of carpentry. Your size shouldn't matter, but strength could.

Answer 7

My dad was a carpenter through the 70s and early 80s. He "retired" to locksmithing. It is hard work, but my dad, like you, was always in shape. His main physical issue was back strain. I remember when I was little he always wanted me to walk on his back for him. Learn how to bend, pick-up and move things without injuring your back, and you should be okay. Bear in mind that no one is a carpenter into their 40s, 50s, etc, but that the directions for job development are great. All of my dad's carpenter buddies have found good, applicable jobs that are easier on the back/joints as they age. Most of my dad's carpenter buddies are now cabinet-makers or electricians, and he's a locksmith. Despite the recent "burst" of the housing bubble, our society will always need people who can build and fix things, so this could be a good direction for you. Good luck!

Answer 8

Bro-in-law is a carpenter and yes the work can be strenuous at times, but from what u describe of urself, it sounds as if ur able to handle it. His biggest complaint is working in all different weather extremes, from very cold to hot and humid. If u live in a year-around mild climate that would not be a problem for u,but if ur located in the northeast u might want to give that some thought. Compensation...pay range can be good. If ur talented in that field, work is always available.

Answer 9

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Answer 10

yes, it is at times physically demanding work, but when your done building something and it's done right you don't even think of the pain, best way use leverage and you head. union jobs they have like five guys to do one thing not so demanding their