Mitre
A mitre joint is an angle joint. An example is a joint that is formed when two pieces meet on a 90-degree angle and each piece has been cut at an angle of 45 degrees to be joined. A good example of this type of mitre joint can be seen in picture frames. A mitre joint can also be formed when two pieces meet at different angles than 90 degrees, for example, joining skirting boards around bay windows.
A mitred joint gives a neat finish with a sharp corner, only showing a line at the angle, and with both ends concealed. However, mitred joints can be difficult to cut and match, and can suffer from the swelling and shrinking of timber which can cause the mitre to crack open from the inner corner.
Other types of joint include:
- Butt joints.
- Lap joints.
- Mortise and tenon joints.
- Dowel joints.
- Tongue and groove joints.
- Dovetail joints.
Different joints have different strengths and aesthetic properties. Some joints are more complex to create than others and can be very time-consuming. A mitre joint can be relatively simple to create and not the most time-consuming in comparison to more complex joints like a dovetail or dowel joint.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).