Finishing Carpenter in Chemainus, BC

The details that make a house feel like home

I'm Matt, a finishing carpenter with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in trim work that transforms ordinary rooms into spaces with character. From crown molding to custom built-ins, I bring the kind of attention to detail you don't see much anymore.

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Years Experience

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Projects Completed

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Satisfaction

Custom stair railing by MNR Contracting - finishing carpenter in Chemainus, Vancouver Island

Custom oak railing with precise baluster spacing. Built to code, built to last.

Matt Rafuse - Finishing carpenter serving Chemainus and Vancouver Island

About Me

The difference is in the details

With over 15 years of hands-on experience since 2009, I've honed my skills across all aspects of woodworking, with a particular passion for finish carpentry where precision and attention to detail matter most.

In 2018, I established my own business to bring my vision of quality craftsmanship directly to Vancouver Island homeowners. I specialize in the intricate work that transforms a structure into a finished space: crown molding, custom trim, built-ins, and architectural details that require both technical expertise and an artistic eye.

I work differently than most. I take fewer projects so I can give each one the time it deserves. I don't have a crew of rotating workers. When you hire me, you get me. And I don't leave until the job is right.

What sets me apart:

  • Hand-selected materials for each project
  • No subcontractors or rotating crews
  • Clean job sites, every single day
  • Joints so tight you can't find the seams

Services

Trim work that transforms spaces

I specialize in the finish details that most carpenters overlook. Every cut is precise, every joint is tight, and every installation is built to last.

Crown Molding

From simple cove to elaborate multi-piece installations. I take the time to get those inside and outside corners absolutely perfect.

Baseboards & Casing

The foundation of any finished room. I use cope joints, not miters, because they last and they look better.

Wainscoting & Paneling

Board and batten, raised panel, shaker style. Each piece measured and cut for your specific walls.

Built-in Cabinetry

Custom bookcases, window seats, entertainment centers. Designed to fit your space exactly, not forced to fit.

Custom Mantels

The focal point of your living room deserves special attention. I build mantels that become conversation pieces.

Stair Trim & Railings

Newel posts, balusters, handrails, and all the trim that ties it together. Safety meets craftsmanship.

Have a project that doesn't fit these categories? I'm always interested in unique challenges.

Let's Talk About Your Project

Portfolio

Recent work

Every project tells a story. Here are a few recent ones I'm particularly proud of.

Custom Closet System - Custom Closets by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Custom Closets

Custom Closet System

Custom-designed storage solution tailored to the homeowner's specific needs. Every shelf, drawer, and hanging space planned for maximum functionality.

Trim & Door Installation - Trim Work by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Trim Work

Trim & Door Installation

Precision door hanging and high-quality trim work. Hundreds of doors installed across Vancouver Island with consistent, clean results every time.

Tongue & Groove Ceiling - Wood Ceilings by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Wood Ceilings

Tongue & Groove Ceiling

T&G wood ceiling installation that elevates the entire space. The warmth of natural wood overhead transforms any room.

Custom Fireplace Mantle - Custom Mantels by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Custom Mantels

Custom Fireplace Mantle

Handcrafted mantle with no visible fasteners. Designed to retrofit existing fireplaces without compromising the finished look.

Stair Balustrade - Stair Work by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Stair Work

Stair Balustrade

Built to code with solid connections and precise measurements. Safety and craftsmanship working together.

Custom Range Hood Cover - Custom Millwork by MNR Contracting, Vancouver Island
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Custom Millwork

Custom Range Hood Cover

One-of-a-kind range hood enclosure. Custom millwork that turns a kitchen appliance into a design feature.

More project photos available upon request.

Testimonials

What clients say

I let my work speak for itself, but sometimes clients want to add their own thoughts.

"Matt's work on our crown molding was exceptional. He noticed that our walls weren't perfectly square and adjusted every cut accordingly. You'd never know it wasn't a brand new build."

Sarah & Tom Henderson

Whole-home trim package

Chemainus

"We had three contractors look at our curved staircase and say it couldn't be done. Matt figured it out. The bent handrail he built is a genuine work of art."

Michael Chen

Curved staircase renovation

Duncan

"What impressed me most was how clean he kept the job site. Every day, you'd never know anyone had been working. And the built-ins? They look like they've always been there."

Rebecca Mills

Home office built-ins

Nanaimo

Get in Touch

Let's talk about your project

I'm happy to talk through your ideas. Most projects start with a simple conversation.

Service Area

Chemainus & Vancouver Island

How I work: After our initial conversation, I'll visit your space to understand the project scope. You'll get a detailed written quote within a week.

Ready to start?

Send me an email and I'll get back to you within 24-48 hours.

Send Email

mnr.contracting@outlook.com