Print illustrated guide

Manufacturing a lap joint for a double beam construction

beam constructions
In this application example, the creation of a post end with a double beam construction is shown.
Double beam constructions with lap joints on the post provide a stable connection which is used, for example, to build a carport.

    Description

    Lap joints on beam constructions are often used to support load transfer and facilitate the support structure's assembly.
    In this example, the HK 85 is used in conjunction with the adjustable groove cutter to cut the posts to size and to produce the lap joint out of the posts.

    Material list

    • 16 x 16 cm posts
    • 8 x 16 cm joists for the double beams

     


    Lap joints

    Tools/accessories

    Alternative tools

    Preparation/set-up

    • Pull the post ends apart. The depth of the lap joint in this example is 25 mm. The post end's section should be below the upper edge of the beams (here -0.5 cm) due to possible wood shrinkage.

      +
      Pull the post ends apart.

    Procedure

    • Cut off the post ends using the cross cutting guide rail and the HK 85. The cross-cutting must be carried out in two steps.

      +
      Cut off the post ends using the cross cutting guide rail and the HK 85
    • Turn the post over and make a second cut. With the cross cutting guide rail you can achieve a very good result quickly, even when cutting thicker woods.

      +
      Turn the post over and make a second cut
    • Marking a hole

      A hole (14 mm) for a bolt connection should be made for this connection.

      +
      Marking a hole
    • The Festool drill stand for carpentry can be used in conjunction with a cordless drill or a mains-powered machine to drill bore holes quickly and straight.

      +
      To drill bore holes quickly and straight
    • The drilling depth can be adjusted on the carpentry drill stand using the depth limiters on the guide rod.

      +
      Setting the drilling depth
    • The axis markings on the drill stand base make it easier to align the drill stand.

      +
      Aligning the drill stand
    • It is recommended to adjust the parallel side fences for series drilling. The required distance from the fence side can be read off at the axle mark pointer and fixed accordingly.

      +
      Adjusting the parallel side fences
    • Drilling holes

      +
      Drilling holes
    • The HK 85 is equipped with an adjustable groove cutter to produce the lap joints

      +
      the HK 85 with the adjustable groove cutter
    • Set the desired routing depth. Checking the scribe mark is recommended. The maximum routing depth with the rail is approx. 32 mm

      +
      Set the desired routing depth.
    • Carry out the routing several times in order to create the lap joint. 
      Tip: To prevent the wood from splintering during the final routing process, it is recommended to cut the wood fibres at the marking with a chisel.

       

      +
      Carry out the routing several times
    • Completed post end

      +
      Completed post end
    • Fit the prepared beams with the appropriate bore holes.

      +
      Fit the prepared beams with the appropriate bore holes
    • After installation, unsightly areas that should be sanded often stand out on the wooden construction. The cordless eccentric sander is ideal for removing minor dirt and pencil marks afterwards.

      +
      Fit the prepared beams with the appropriate bore holes
    1. Our illustrated guides and work results are documented working steps that we have performed in practice. They are individual examples and do not guarantee or promise that users will obtain the same results. The results will depend on the user's experience and skill, as well as the material being used. Illustrated guides do not replace any Festool operating manuals and/or safety instructions. Liability for ensuring that the information, instructions and applications are free from content defects and defects of title, in particular with regard to the absence of defects, correctness, freedom from third party intellectual property rights and copyrights, completeness and fitness for purpose, is excluded. Claims for damages made by the user, regardless of their legal basis, are excluded. These liability exclusions are not applicable if the damage was intentional or caused by gross negligence, or in cases of statutory liability.

      We cannot accept liability for damage resulting from defects.