Casing
Casing is the decorative trim or molding that frames doors, windows, and other openings in a building. It's like a picture frame for architectural features, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. Carpenters install casing to cover gaps between walls and frames, creating a polished, finished look. When people mention casing in construction or carpentry jobs, they might also call it trim work or molding. It's a key finishing detail that helps define the style of a room or building.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Casing and trim work for 200+ residential windows and doors
Specialized in custom Casing designs for historic home renovations
Led a team of 5 carpenters in Casing and millwork installation for luxury apartments
Typical job title: "Finish Carpenters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Finish Carpenters
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex crown molding installations with irregular corners?
Expected Answer: A senior carpenter should explain their process for measuring angles, creating templates, and making precise cuts. They should mention tools like a compound miter saw and techniques for dealing with old buildings that aren't square.
Q: How do you estimate materials and time for a large trim package?
Expected Answer: Should discuss taking detailed measurements, accounting for waste, considering different trim profiles, and explaining their process for calculating labor hours based on complexity and experience.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your process for matching existing historic casing?
Expected Answer: Should describe measuring existing trim, finding or creating matching profiles, and techniques for blending new work with old finishes.
Q: How do you handle paint-grade versus stain-grade trim installation differently?
Expected Answer: Should explain different preparation methods, joint types, and material selection based on whether the trim will be painted or stained.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools do you use for casing installation?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like miter saw, nail gun, measuring tape, level, and caulk gun, and explain basic safety practices.
Q: How do you determine the proper reveal (margin) when installing door casing?
Expected Answer: Should explain standard reveal measurements and how to maintain consistency around a door frame.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic measuring and cutting
- Simple door and window trim installation
- Using basic power tools safely
- Understanding different trim styles
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex miter cuts and joints
- Custom trim work
- Material estimation
- Working with various trim profiles
Senior (5+ years)
- Historic restoration work
- Project management
- Training junior carpenters
- Complex installations and custom designs
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to read a tape measure accurately
- No experience with power tools
- Poor understanding of basic math for measurements
- Lack of attention to detail in finished work
- No knowledge of different trim styles and applications
Related Terms
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