Finger joint decking refers to decking boards made from shorter pieces of timber joined together using a "finger joint" technique to create a longer board.
Understanding Finger Jointing
The finger joint technique involves cutting a series of interlocking "fingers" into the ends of two pieces of wood. These fingers are then glued together, creating a strong and seamless joint.
Key Characteristics of Finger Joint Decking
- Construction: Made by interlocking shorter timber lengths to form a longer board.
- Joint Type: Utilizes a finger joint, where the ends of the wood are cut with interlocking fingers and then glued.
- Common Materials: Merbau is a timber often used in finger-jointed decking.
- Potential Issues: According to the provided document, harsh weather conditions can create issues in finger-joint decking due to the glued ends.
Advantages and Disadvantages
| Feature | Finger Joint Decking |
|---|---|
| Advantage | Can utilize shorter pieces of timber, potentially reducing waste. |
| Disadvantage | Glued joints may be more susceptible to failure in harsh weather, potentially shortening lifespan. |
Longevity
The provided document suggests non-finger jointed boards generally have a longer lifespan.
