Graphical Construction Glossary >> Woodwork. >> Joints >> Scarf Joint

Scarf Joint

A method of end joining members. From ply the solid timber.

Above is a plain scarf or lap splice. Any joint of this type where part of one member overlaps another is called a Lapped Joint.

When I was a young journeyman carpenter I worked for a firm that specialised in timber engineering. Among other things we built large span bowstring roof trusses. In effect we end joined lengths of 2" x 1 1/2" softwood timber with scarfed joints like above until the were 60Ft to 80ft long. We then laminated a few of those together to make the curved top and bottom chords.

1. These joints would have been unheard of in an earlier generation, but modern glues have made strong but simple joints possible.
2. The surface are of the glue does the work, so the longer the lap the stronger. From a ratio of 6:1, length to thickness seems to be a good average but up to 10:1 has been used.
3. The joints in any one laminated member were always staggered.

Modern day boatbuilders use the scarf to join sheets of ply.

• Scarf Joint:-Back to top
  
•  
• << BACK: Tusk Tenon
• Framing Scarf Joints : NEXT >>

If you didn't find exactly what you are looking for try this search tool that will search the site and the web.

"What can be added to the happiness of a man who is in health, out of debt, and has a clear conscience?
Adam Smith 1723-1790

"When we build, let us think that we build for ever."John Ruskin 1819-1900