Handyman vs. Carpenter vs. Contractor: Who Should You Hire?

Handyman: The Go-To for Repairs, Small Projects & General Home Fixes

A handyman is who you call when your home needs reliable repairs or small improvements. They take care of the details that make your house feel right again.

Best For:

– Replacing interior doors
– Fixing sticky or misaligned doors
– Installing baseboards or trim
– Mounting TVs or shelves
– Repairing drywall
– Rebuilding garage steps
– Touch-up carpentry
– Weatherstripping and thresholds

Why Homeowners Choose a Handyman

Handymen are ideal for projects that require skill and experience—but not an entire construction crew. A good handyman service (hi, it’s us) acts as the bridge between DIY and a full-blown remodeler.

Homeowners appreciate:
– Faster scheduling
– Lower cost than a general contractor
– Skilled craftsmanship without the “big job” fuss
– Clear communication
– Projects done in one day or less

If your project is maintenance, repair-focused, or primarily involves doors or small carpentry, a handyman is typically the perfect fit.

Handyman Cost Expectations in Lincoln, NE: $

Handyman services are generally the most affordable option in Lincoln, making them ideal for small-to-medium repairs and quick improvements.

Carpenter: The Specialist for Detailed Woodwork & Custom Projects

Think of a carpenter as an artisan with a tape measure. Carpenters specialize in wood-based projects requiring precision, creativity, or custom craftsmanship.

Best For:

– Custom trimwork or full-home trim updates
– Custom fireplace surrounds or mantels
– Built-in shelving
– Accent walls (board and batten, shiplap, modern trim designs)
– Replacing or upgrading multiple interior doors
– Framing small structures or walls
– Advanced stair or railing work

Why You Might Choose a Carpenter

If you want something custom, beautiful, or designed to last longer than a Nebraska winter, a carpenter is the professional you call.

Homeowners often prefer a carpenter when:
– They want upgraded, modern trim throughout the home
– They’re changing the look of multiple rooms
– They want a custom-built solution (mantel, shelving, accent wall)
– Precision and finish work matter most

Carpenters bring craftsmanship and detail to the forefront—great for homeowners ready to elevate their style.

Carpenter Cost Expectations in Lincoln: $$

Carpenters typically cost more than handymen because they provide higher-end craftsmanship and detailed, custom woodwork.

Contractor: The Right Fit for Large-Scale Remodeling

A general contractor is the pro for big jobs—projects requiring multiple trades, permits, inspections, or structural work. They coordinate plumbers, electricians, drywallers, and more.

Best For:

– Kitchen renovations
– Bathroom remodels involving plumbing/electrical
– Removing or moving walls
– Additions and expansions
– Basement finishing
– Multi-room remodels

Why Hire a Contractor?

If your project involves permits, licensed trades, or structural changes, you want a general contractor. They manage the entire project—start to finish—and make sure everything meets code.

Hiring a contractor is essential when:
– You’re redesigning entire spaces
– The job requires multiple specialized trades
– Safety and code compliance are involved
– Multiple rooms or systems are affected

Contractor Cost Expectations in Lincoln: $$$

Contractors are the most expensive option since their projects involve multiple trades, permits, and full-scale construction or remodeling management.

So… Who Should You Hire?

Here’s an easy way to think about it:

Hire a Handyman if…

– The project is small to medium
– It’s repair or maintenance-based
– You want a cost-effective, skilled pro who can knock it out quickly
– You want one company to handle a list of projects

Hire a Carpenter if…

– You want custom woodwork or high-end trimwork
– You’re upgrading the style and finish inside your home
– You’re replacing multiple interior doors or updating a whole level
– You want craftsmanship that stands out

Hire a Contractor if…

– You’re remodeling multiple rooms
– Large plumbing or electrical work is involved
– You’re changing the layout or structure of your home
– The project requires permits

Where Hammer & Nail Fits In

Hammer & Nail specializes in the sweet spot between handyman and carpentry services:

– Door installation & repair
– Trim and baseboard upgrades
– Custom carpentry
– Small remodels like mudrooms, closets, and laundry rooms
– Stair and step repairs
– Fireplace surrounds and mantels
– Punch-list projects done with precision

We’re not the $50-and-a-smile guy, and we’re not a full-scale remodeling contractor. We’re happy to help with those small and medium-sized projects.

And yes… every project is backed by a 3-year workmanship warranty and helps support local animal rescues.

Ready to Tackle Your Project?

We’d love to help you choose the right path and deliver craftsmanship you can count on. Request an estimate today!