Half-lap joints in a timber frame veranda

In a half-lap joint, two beams are each cut to half their depth where they cross, so they sit flush in one plane. In our verandas we use half-laps where beams cross or continue in line, for example at the corners of the wall plate.

How strong is it?

On its own a half-lap is weaker than a mortise and tenon, because each beam loses half its depth at the joint. That is why we peg it and combine it with braces and mortise and tenon joints. With posts of 15 x 15 or 18 x 18 cm there is plenty of timber left after the cut.

Half-laps in Douglas fir

Douglas fir is softer than oak and easy to work, but less durable at class 3 to 4, so an oil that keeps water out of the joint matters. See treating Douglas fir.

Where we use them

• At the corners of the wall plate.
• To lengthen long beams.
• Where rafters cross a beam.

Where a beam must not pull out, we use a dovetail instead.

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