Basic Carpentry Terms | Part 2
1️⃣ Miter
A miter is an angled cut made across the face of a material, typically used to create corners in trim or molding where two pieces need to join at an angle. Carpenters use miter cuts when installing crown molding or baseboards to ensure the pieces fit together seamlessly at corners, resulting in a clean finish.
2️⃣ Rafter
Rafters are the sloped framing members of a roof. They run from the ridge (the peak of the roof) down to the eaves, supporting the roof deck and covering materials. When constructing a building’s roof, carpenters install rafters to create the roof’s slope and support materials like shingles or tiles.
tile = a thin rectangular slab of baked clay or other material, used in overlapping rows for covering roofs
shingle = a rectangular wooden tile used on walls or roofs
eaves = the part of a roof that meets or overhangs the walls of a building
3️⃣ Header
A header is a beam placed above an opening, such as a door or window, to support the weight of the structure above it and distribute the load to the surrounding studs. Headers ensure that door and window openings remain structurally sound, preventing sagging and ensuring smooth operation.
4️⃣ Fascia [ˈfeɪʃ(ɪ)ə]
The fascia is a horizontal board that runs along the edge of the roof, covering the ends of the rafters. It serves both a protective and aesthetic function, often supporting gutters. Properly installed fascia protects the roof’s edge from weather damage and provides a place to secure gutters, adding to the building’s overall appearance and durability.
gutter = a long, open pipe that is fixed to the edge of a roof to carry water away
5️⃣ Lap Joint
A lap joint is created by overlapping two pieces of wood and securing them together, typically with glue, nails, or screws. It’s often used where strength is required. In frame construction, lap joints connect the corners of wooden frames, providing a strong and durable connection for walls, windows, and doors.
See also
Basic Carpentry Terms | Part 1
Types of carpentry work | Part 2
Basic Wood Joinery (https://t.me/espedition/1192)