How to Trim a House Start to Finish Like a Pro | 3 Step Plan

David Hospodka
Aug 7, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Dec 12, 2024

In the fast-paced world of interior finish carpentry, efficiency and precision are paramount. Whether you're a seasoned carpenter or a newcomer to the trade, having a clear, structured approach to your projects can make a world of difference. Our comprehensive job process guide is designed to help you navigate each phase of your work with confidence and clarity. From setting up the jobsite to executing the tasks and ensuring a meticulous cleanup, we break down the essential steps to ensure every project runs smoothly and meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of this process, providing you with practical checklists and insights that will elevate your carpentry skills and streamline your workflow. Let's get started on building excellence, one step at a time.

Section 1: Setting Up the Job

Arrival and Jobsite Survey

Arrive at the location and determine access: garage code, key, keybox, or access code.

Identify Materials on Site

Verify that doors and trim are present.

Communication with Builder/Superintendent

Lead carpenter contacts the builder/superintendent to determine selections and scope of work.
Use the pre-job walk-through sheet to confirm details.

Locate Power Source

Inside the building: identify the breaker panel and outlet locations.
Outside the building: find the power pole and determine the location of the electrical meter.
Meter on pole = power on pole.
Meter on side of house = power in house.

Tool Setup Planning

Identify the best locations for large tools: air compressor, miter saws, table saw, and table saw rip table.

Scattering Doors and Materials

Ensure every framed doorway has the correct door.
Move all doors to their appropriate rough openings, noting any discrepancies.
Use a floor plan or reference marks on the framing for door sizes and swings.
Create a list of missing or incorrect doors for the lead carpenter to maintain and the field manager to order.
Move casing and baseboards to appropriate areas for cutting and installation.
Set up a closet work station:
Arrange sawhorses, shelves on horses, 1x4 cleats, and appropriate saws.

Tool Setup

Set up the air compressor, leader hose, and air splitters.
Run hoses to each area so each carpenter has access.
Set up a miter saw for each worker in the appropriate area to minimize wait times.
Place the table saw near the material pile.
Set up the table saw rip table if applicable for safer cuts on large material.
Ensure each worker has access to the necessary nail guns and drills.
Set up these tools in each worker's area.

Section 2: Doing the Work

Starting the Work

Begin work immediately after the jobsite setup is complete.
Assign tasks based on skill levels:
Everyone will be trained first to hang doors.
Experienced workers focus on handrail, ceiling beams and other complex tasks.

General Order of Operations (Doors First/Base Last)

Install all types of doors (interior, exterior, etc.) and casing first. Verify that each door is correctly installed and functions properly.
Install baseboards last unless a less experienced employee needs a task. Avoid installing baseboards in areas where casing is not 100% complete.
Perform tasks that fall between door and baseboard installation logically. For example, install newel posts after completing the skirt boards and wood cap.

Specialty Tasks

Skilled carpenters should begin Level 3 tasks as soon as possible (garage steps, lockers, staircases, beams, etc.)
Complete more challenging tasks first. Write down remaining tasks and start with the most difficult, working towards the easiest. (Hard Stuff First Principle)

Daily Operations/Maintaining Efficiency

Begin each day with a plan. Write out or enter a draft entry in the Production Reporting App in order to set a daily goal to reach your longer term goals. Identify specific items that you will complete that day. For example, if your goal is to set 7 doors in a day, find which specific 7 doors you will complete and keep that plan in your head throughout the day.

Manage materials efficiently by cutting large pieces first to maximize material usage.
Place tools close to work areas to minimize walking distances. Bring the saw to the work instead of walking across the house for each cut. Cut pieces in bulk in order to save trips between the saw and the work.
At the end of each day, clear large debris and broom sweep daily. Secure all tools in the proper place (usually a locked trailer). Ensure all windows and doors are closed and locked.

Adhering to these detailed steps and procedures will ensure the workflow is efficient, organized, and productive, leading to high-quality results in a timely manner.

Section 3: Finishing the Job and Cleaning Up

Final Walk-Through and Quality Check

At the end of the job, the lead carpenter should walk through the house to ensure all tasks are completed. Any unfinished tasks due to material shortages or other issues should be documented and communicated to the field manager.

Comprehensive Cleaning

The entire crew is responsible for a thorough cleanup of the jobsite. Dust should be blown off all surfaces, including windows, light boxes, walls, and cabinets. Sweep all floors, paying special attention to edges to remove dust and debris.
Collect dust and debris into trash cans and dispose of it in the jobsite dumpster. Discard any material scraps that are not in factory condition and cannot be returned. Neatly stack any returnable materials in the garage for the supplier to pick up.
Place base shoe, balusters, hardware, and any other materials needed for punchout in appropriate locations inside the house. For example, place base shoe in the main area for painters to paint, and store balusters and hardware in an unfinished area of the basement or utility room.

Securing the Jobsite

Ensure the jobsite is free of all dust, debris, and tools. It should be fully swept and cleaned for the next trade to begin work (usually painting).
Conduct a final walk-through to verify no tools or material scraps are left behind. Make sure the house is secure by checking that all windows and exterior doors are closed and locked.

By following these detailed steps, the jobsite will be left in excellent condition, ensuring a smooth transition for the next phase of work and maintaining a professional standard of cleanliness and organization.