Finger Jointing

Finger jointing (also called box jointing or comb jointing) is a woodworking technique used to join two or more pieces of wood end-to-end. This is achieved by interlocking multiple ‘fingers’—triangular, rectangular or square (depending on the finger jointing method) projections cut into the wood—that fit together like puzzle pieces, creating a strong and seamless bond when glued.

Finger jointing enhances wood’s structural strength, allowing for the creation of longer, wider, and more stable pieces. This technique efficiently reduces material waste by utilising shorter, narrower wood sections. It is highly favoured for its ability to produce robust joints suitable for various applications.

The process involves using tools like table saws or specialised machines equipped with cutting blades or router bits to cut the interlocking profiles on the wood’s end grain. These profiles are then coated with adhesive and clamped until the glue sets, forming a durable joint.

Finger jointing minimises waste by using shorter wood pieces that might otherwise be discarded. It promotes the efficient use of wood resources, reducing the need for virgin timber and helping to preserve natural forests. This technique supports sustainable forestry practices by optimising the material and encouraging responsible wood harvesting.

In glulam production, finger jointing is essential for combining smaller timber pieces into larger structural members, optimising length, and enhancing the final product’s structural and aesthetic properties. It ensures dimensional stability and allows for quality control in production, resulting in high-performance, visually uniform glulam beams.

Finger jointing has several environmental benefits; it helps reduce deforestation and forest degradation by maximising the utility of available wood. The technique lowers the carbon footprint associated with transport and manufacturing, as wood products require less energy than steel or concrete. Moreover, wood’s capacity to sequester carbon contributes to combating climate change, making finger jointing a practice aligned with eco-conscious construction and woodworking practices.