What this covers
Rough carpentry is the wood work that is covered by finishes: subfloor panels, blocking between joists, backing in walls for grab bars and cabinets, furring strips to straighten walls, stair stringers, temporary shoring during structural work, and basement and garage partitions. It is done to the plans and the code and is inspected with the framing. Good rough carpentry is why the finish carpentry fits.
When to call
- A basement, garage or attic being prepared for finishing.
- Walls that need straightening or backing before drywall.
- A rebuild where subfloor, blocking and stringers were removed.
What to expect
- PlanWhere blocking, backing and furring are needed is marked from the finish plans.
- BuildSubfloor, partitions, blocking, backing and furring are installed.
- Shore where neededTemporary supports are set for any structural change and removed when the permanent work is in.
- InspectWork is checked and inspected before it is covered.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What is backing?
Solid wood set in a wall where something heavy will hang later, such as a grab bar, a cabinet or a TV mount. It only goes in while the wall is open.
Why fur a wall?
To bring an uneven or out-of-plumb wall to a flat plane before drywall, or to create a space for insulation on a masonry wall.
Is rough carpentry inspected?
Yes, with the framing. Anything hidden later is seen by the inspector first.
Related: Framing · Subfloor repair · Basement finishing · All carpentry and trim
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.