Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Crown Molding • Heartwood • Sapwood

Chair Rail

Term from Carpentry industry explained for recruiters

A Chair Rail is a decorative wooden trim installed horizontally on walls, typically at the height of a chair's back (about 30-36 inches from the floor). It was originally used to protect walls from damage caused by chairs backing into them, but today it's mostly installed for decorative purposes to add visual interest and style to rooms. This is a common feature in traditional and modern home design that carpenters are often asked to install, repair, or replace. Similar terms include "wall trim," "chair molding," or "dado rail" (British term).

Examples in Resumes

Installed Chair Rail in multiple high-end residential properties

Restored historic Chair Rail and matching trim work in Victorian homes

Designed and implemented custom Chair Rail and wainscoting solutions for commercial spaces

Typical job title: "Finish Carpenters"

Also try searching for:

Trim Carpenter Finish Carpenter Interior Trim Installer Molding Installer Finish Woodworker Custom Carpenter

Where to Find Finish Carpenters

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Social Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach a large-scale chair rail installation project in a historic building?

Expected Answer: A senior carpenter should discuss project planning, material selection, dealing with uneven walls, matching existing historic profiles, managing a team, and ensuring consistent quality throughout the project.

Q: What considerations do you take into account when pricing a chair rail installation?

Expected Answer: Should mention factors like room size, wall condition, material costs, complexity of corners and joints, need for special tools or equipment, and time requirements for proper installation and finishing.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle inside and outside corners when installing chair rail?

Expected Answer: Should explain different cutting techniques for corners, including miter cuts and coping methods, and when to use each approach for the best results.

Q: What steps do you take to ensure chair rail is level across a long wall?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using laser levels, accounting for wall irregularities, proper marking techniques, and methods to maintain consistent height throughout the installation.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the typical height for installing chair rail?

Expected Answer: Should know that chair rail is typically installed 30-36 inches from the floor, but should also mention that height can vary based on room proportions and client preferences.

Q: What basic tools are needed for chair rail installation?

Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like miter saw, level, tape measure, nail gun or hammer, wood filler, and basic safety equipment.