4 min read · · by Luke Adkins
What Changes When Your General Contractor Is Also the Carpenter
Most general contractors manage. Some also build. The difference shows up in the parts of a job you look at every day.
The finish work is not subbed out
On a typical remodel, the cabinets, trim and built-ins go to whichever finish crew is available. On an LTA job, they go to Luke. The crown, the stair treads, the banquette and the shelves on this site were built by the person who quoted them.
Decisions happen on site
A wall opening needs a column. A shelf wants to be two inches deeper. A trim profile does not exist in the catalog. A carpenter answers those in the room, with a pencil. A manager calls someone.
Fewer hands, cleaner schedule
Every hand-off between subs is a day lost and a chance for something to be built to the wrong measurement. Fewer hand-offs means a tighter schedule and fewer surprises.
What it does not change
Electrical, plumbing and HVAC are still licensed trades. Luke hires the ones he trusts and checks their work. Permits, inspections and insurance are the same as any GC.
What it costs
Roughly the same. The finish carpentry line on a quote is there either way. The difference is who does it.