What is the standard thickness proportion for a tenon?

A tenon should generally be about one-third (1/3) of the total thickness of the wooden member being joined.

How deep should dowels be inserted for an effective joint?

Dowels should typically penetrate at least 2 to 2.5 times their diameter into each adjoining piece of timber.

What types of adhesives are recommended for furniture joints?

Synthetic resin adhesives conforming to IS 848 or IS 851 are recommended for durable structural bonds.

IS 3845

: 1966

Code of practice for joints used in wooden furniture

CurrentSpecializedCode of PracticeArchitectural · Furniture

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This code covers the types, proportions, and fabrication techniques for various woodworking joints used in furniture manufacturing, such as mortise-and-tenon, dowel, and dovetail joints. It provides guidelines for assembly and gluing to ensure durable and structurally sound wooden furniture.

Code of practice for joints used in wooden furniture

Quick Reference Values

tenon thicknessApproximately 1/3 of the member thickness

dowel diameter1/3 to 1/2 of the wood thickness

dowel penetrationAt least 2 to 2.5 times the dowel diameter into each member

moisture content varianceMax 2% difference between members being joined

Practical Notes

Always ensure the moisture content of the wood members is stable and matches the expected service environment (as per IS 287) before joining to prevent failure from differential shrinkage.

End-grain to end-grain glued joints have minimal structural strength and must be mechanically reinforced using dowels, splines, or tenons.

Apply even clamping pressure during the adhesive curing process to ensure a tight glue line without squeezing out all the adhesive (starving the joint).