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摘要

Small things can make a big difference in many areas -joinery is no different. The following guidelines outline key considerations to ensure specified work is of a high standard. 1. Always try to configure specifications so the specialist fabricator assumes responsibility for substrate selection, carcassing and connecting; don't attempt to micro-design the means by which the joinery is fabricated. 2. Hardwoods are, in general terms, limited to module widths of up to 250mm due to milling norms and stability. Boards up to 250mm when milled too thin will 'cup' and twist and, in thicker sizes, will move markedly with moisture-borne expansion and contraction. As a result, when they are joined, they can twist and joints can open. 3. For wider elements, it is necessary to consider veneer. Although its not impossible to source veneer that is more than lmm thick, most commercial veneer is produced at between 0.6-0.7mm. As a consequence, it can become damaged when used on high-use elements. This can be negated by using an underlayment veneer and applying it in a contradirection to the face veneer. This underlayment is often a seconds-grade material of the same or similar species that effectively doubles the veneer mass, enabling any damage to be rectified more easily. Remember: a drum or belt sander will remove at least 20 per cent of your veneer thickness.