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Joining warped boards

15K views 11 replies 7 participants last post by  dalec 
#1 ·
Joining warped boards

This is part of continuing blog on a project to cut down a coffee table. I had difficulty cutting two board edges clean enough for joining. In part the owner of the table wanted not to disassemble the table legs, so we are not working with just the boards, but with boards with legs attached and some stretchers, that limits any milling of the two boards we need to join. I was able to get the edges cut for a good tight fit.

Now the problem: The two boards are warped (the edges are straight, but the boards (measure 57/64" thick) do not align (off by approximately 1/8") . Is there a way to join the two boards and straighten the boards without planing the boards flat by using dowel or other mechanical joinery? If we are able to join the two boards without milling the two boards flat, will the stress on the joint be too likely to fail or will some mechanical joinery (doweling)

Welcome any ideas anyone has.

Dale
 
#2 ·
You can never pet boards perfectly level when you glue them. Some sanding or scraping is always required.

You could try biscuits since the biscuit jointer would reference the top surface when making the cuts.
 
#4 ·
Gary,

First thanks for the response. I don't own a biscuit joiner, but would not be opposed to buying one. I have seen some comments about the strength of biscuits, would a regular biscuit have sufficent strength to hold the two 7/8" thick boards in alignment? Would dowelling with a centering jig be another option?

Dale
 
#5 ·
Coming from the kitchen countertop industry, we seam two pieces together all the time. There are different techniques for different materials, but your best bet is the joint connectors.

you spread glue on the mating surface, then tighten the bolt, this connector gives you enough play to move the seam before the glue sets. It will be under the table so the ugly hardware will not be seen. It's not the best solution, but it is a proven systems in millions on homes with formica tops.
 
#11 ·
A row of dowels along the seam should line them up also .

make sure that they are drilled accurately all from the same edge of the two boards.
 
#12 ·
Thanks Karson.

I am considering getting a dowel jig or a PC biscuit joiner. I would hate to get a dowel jig and use it once only, but this also goes for a biscuit joiner. I am thinking, I may end up getting more out of a joiner. But really don't know.

Appreciate your suggestion.

Dalec
 
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