What is the advantage of a scarf joint?
It is a simple form of a lap joint, and when the two pieces are joined together, produces a virtually invisible seam. Joiners can use this joint when the material they want to join is not long enough for the task at hand. It is also useful if material has been cut too short.
Are scarf joints necessary?
The scarf joint is used when the material being joined is not available in the length required. It is an alternative to other joints such as the butt joint and the splice joint and is often favored over these in joinery because it yields a barely visible glue line.
What degree should a scarf joint be?
45-degree angle
Use a 45-degree angle to cut crown molding for a scarf joint and an outside corner.
Is a scarf joint load bearing?
03 Scarf Joint Glue and screws can be used for extra strength however scarf joints are not suitable for use in heavy load bearing joinery such as roof structures unless they have supporting members directly beneath the join.
Where do you place a scarf joint?
Joining a wildly grained strip with one that has straight grain will make the difference immediately apparent. If possible, locate the joint where a bed, bookcase, or other large piece of furniture will hide it.
Can a scarf joint be unsupported?
The joint shown is located over a post but it can easily be under a knee brace, which many engineers actually prefer, or left unsupported from below in some cases.
How long should a scarf joint be?
A common and recommended ratio is 1:12; that is, the length of the taper is 12 times the thickness of the members. In other words, members 1″ thick being scarfed joined would have an overlap or scarf 12″ long.
Do you glue a scarf joint?
Follow the recommended setting time, and before proceeding to the installation, be sure that the assembled joint has developed strength in the glue joint. For the wood gusset, cut the scarf joint, apply glue to the cut ends, and press them together firmly.