Tongue and groove is a type of joint used for siding, ceilings, and interior walls. This method of construction allows wood planks to be interconnected without a gap, so there’s no chance that boards will shift during installation.
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One side of a tongue and groove board has a protruding ridge, the “tongue,” which runs the entire length of the board, while the other side has a groove from end to end. During installation, the ridge side of a board is fitted into the groove side of an adjacent board to create a tight seam.
Installing a tongue and groove floor is an excellent option for creating a smooth, level surface. In addition, this type of joint is more durable than a traditional nail-on or nailed-together floor.
If you’re installing a tongue and groove floor, you’ll need to use a router with a depth setting capability to make your cuts. This is important because it’s difficult to accurately cut a tight tongue and groove with just a table saw.
When you’re making a tongue and groove, it’s best to use wood that is consistent in thickness, as this will help you produce a smooth surface. You can also use wood that is stained to match the rest of your house for a more attractive look.
For a good joint, it’s important to have a square tongue that’s one-third the width of the stock and centered on the edge. It’s also important to have a matching groove that’s a bit taller than the tongue so the shoulders of the two pieces fit together tightly. If you don’t, you’ll have a tendency to break the tongue when you push it into the groove.