How To Join Boards With A Table Saw: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you a woodworker who wants to learn how to join boards with a table saw? Joining boards is a fundamental skill in woodworking, and a table saw is a versatile tool to use for it. In this article, we will cover all the steps:

• Prepping the table saw, including the blade and the fence.
• Preparing the boards for cutting and joining.
• Joining the boards through cutting, checking the edges, and gluing the joint.

With these simple steps, you can create perfectly joined boards for your projects. Plus, by mastering this technique, you can create stronger and more durable joints than other methods. 

With this skill, you can take your woodworking projects to the next level. Create beautiful, functional pieces that will last for years to come! 

What are you waiting for? Let’s jump right in!

Preparing the Table Saw

Step 1: Choose the Right Blade for the Job

When joining boards with a table saw, it is important to choose the right blade. A dado blade is ideal for this project as it is specifically designed for cutting grooves.

Note: Learn more about blades and blade thicknesses here.

Step 2: Adjust the Blade Height and Angle

The blade height and angle are also important in ensuring a clean cut. Adjust the blade height to be slightly above the board’s surface. Moreover, set the blade angle to zero degrees.

Note: Learn more about heights with “How high should a table saw be?”

Step 3: Set up the Table Saw Fence

The fence guides the board as it moves through the saw blade. For this project, the fence should be set parallel to the blade.

Preparing the Boards

Step 4: Select the Right Wood for the Job

The wood you use for your project should be straight and free from defects. Moreover, it should also be the same thickness as the other board you will be joining it with.

Step 5: Cut the Boards to Size

Using a miter saw, cut the boards to the desired size.

Step 6: Create a Jointing Edge

To create a jointing edge, you need to cut a groove on one board’s edge and a tongue on the other board’s edge. The groove should be slightly wider than the tongue, allowing for a snug fit.

Joining The Boards

Step 7: Cut the Jointing Edge Using the Table Saw

Place the board with the groove onto the table saw and adjust the blade height to match the groove’s depth. Turn on the saw and slowly move the board towards the blade. Repeat this step for the other board, but this time cut the tongue.

Step 8: Check for Squareness and Make Any Necessary Adjustments

After cutting the jointing edge, check to ensure that the two boards fit snugly together. Moreover, check for squareness by using a framing square. If necessary, make any adjustments to ensure that the joint is square.

Step 9: Clamp the Boards Together and Glue the Joint

If you’re satisfied with the joint’s fit, clamp the two boards together and apply glue to the joint. Allow the glue to dry for the recommended time.

Safety Precautions

Safety Gear For Learning How To Join Boards With A Table Saw

It’s important to protect yourself when operating a table saw. Ensure you wear protective eyewear, earmuffs, and a respirator to shield your eyes, ears, and lungs from dust and debris.

Proper Handling and Use of the Table Saw 

Always read the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper handling and use of the table saw. Ensure the saw blade is securely attached and the fence is properly aligned.

Use Push Sticks and Featherboards For Safety

Use push sticks and featherboards to keep your hands and fingers safe when working with a table saw. Push sticks help you guide the board through the saw while keeping your hands away from the blade. Featherboards apply pressure to the board, ensuring that it stays flush against the fence.

Learn more about table saw usage safety precautions here.

Understanding the Basics of How To Join Boards With A Table Saw

Since we’ve already covered the steps for joining boards with a table saw, let us step back and discuss the basics.

Types of Joinery

There are several types of joinery, including butt joint, lap joint, tongue and groove joint, and rabbet joint, among others. For this guide, we have focused on the tongue and groove joint, which is a popular option for joining boards, but we have other guides available for your perusal as well.

If you’re looking for a step-by-step for Box Joints (including a guide on making a box joint jig) or Spline joints, we’ve covered them all for you!

Benefits and Limitations of Using a Table Saw

One advantage of using a table saw is its ability to make precise and accurate cuts. Furthermore, it is a multipurpose tool suitable for a variety of woodworking tasks. However, it can pose hazards if not operated safely. It is crucial to take appropriate safety measures when using a table saw.

FAQs

Can I join boards of different thicknesses with a table saw?

No, it is best to join boards of the same thickness to ensure a snug fit.

Do I need to use a dado blade for joining boards with a table saw?

While a dado blade is ideal for cutting grooves, you can also use a regular blade to create a jointing edge.

How do I know if the joint is square?

Use a framing square to check for squareness. Place the square against the jointing edge and check if it is at a perfect 90-degree angle.

The Bottom Line – Have You Learned How To Join Boards With A Table Saw?

Using a table saw to join boards is a fantastic choice for woodworkers seeking to achieve precise and accurate cuts, and it’s not a difficult task. As you can see from the steps above, you can quickly and easily follow the process to make your life easy.

All you need to remember is to follow the steps to learn how to join boards with a table saw:

• Choose the right blade
• Adjust the blade height and angle
• Set up the fence, select the right wood
• Cut the boards to size
• Create a jointing edge before joining the boards

Of course, if you’re interested in a practical demonstration, we recommend checking out this video!

Keeping everything above in mind, you can produce perfectly joined boards for your woodworking projects with a table saw.

Happy woodworking!

Learn more table saw knowledge with “How to adjust DeWalt table saw fence?”