Mortise and tenon joints
|
| The lintels at Stonehenge are secured by stone mortise and tenon joints. |
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
A mortise is a socket, recess or hole cut into a material in order to connect with a tenon (or tongue). In construction terms, this technique is commonly referred to as a mortise and tenon joint.
This method can be quite strong and sturdy, and is often used to join two components at a right angle. It is commonly found in furniture (such as tables and beds) or structures that require durable frames, such as doors or windows. It is one of the most common types of joinery used for woodwork and furniture.
[edit] History
Mortise and tenon joints have been used for thousands of years, most commonly in woodworking, but also for stone, iron and so on. Ancient examples have been found in architecture, shipbuilding and furniture making around the world, including a ship in the Giza pyramid complex, roofing structures in ancient Chinese architecture and the lintels at Stonehenge.
[edit] Types of mortises and tenons
There are many variations on the mortise and tenon joint:
- Barefaced mortise.
- Haunched mortise.
- Open mortise.
- Stub mortise.
- Through mortise.
- Through-wedged half-dovetail.
- Twin mortise.
- Wedged half-dovetail.
[edit] Types of tenons include:
- Hammer-headed tenon.
- Half shoulder tenon.
- Loose tenon.
- Pegged (or pinned) tenon.
- Stub tenon.
- Teasel (or teazle) tenon.
- Through tenon.
- Top tenon.
- Tusk tenon.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.