What Does a Wood Jointer Do?

Are you curious about what a wood jointer does and how you can use it in carpentry projects? A jointer is a versatile tool that can level out and square boards, among other tasks. To get the most out of your jointer, it’s critical to understand how it works and the types of projects it is suitable for.

In this article, we’ll review what a wood jointer is and how it works. We’ll also explore the different types of tools available, the features that make certain jointers better than others, and the tasks you can use them for. After reading this article, you’ll understand what a wood jointer can do and how to select the right one for your carpentry projects.

Definition of a Wood Jointer

A wood jointer is a specialized tool that can create smooth, straight edges and flat surfaces in woodworking projects. It is also known as a planer, straight-edge jointer, or jointer planer. It has two cutting heads, one that operates vertically and one that moves horizontally over the workpiece. The horizontal head cuts the edges of the workpiece to make it fit with other pieces. The vertical head removes material from the surface of the workpiece to make it smoother and flatter.

Types of Wood Jointers

There are several different types of wood jointers available, depending on the woodworking project you need to complete. A belt-driven jointer uses a motor-driven belt to turn two or more blades for cutting and smoothing wood. A combination jointer and planer is a two-in-one tool that can function as either a jointer or planer, depending on your needs. Regardless of whether you use a belt-driven or combination jointer, you’ll want to grab a laser level to ensure your wooden pieces are even, especially if you are joining two pieces. A laser level will ensure your edges and the shape you create with the boards from your wood jointer are perfectly even. 

Uses of a Wood Jointer

Wood jointers can make furniture and other woodworking projects look professional and attractive. They are useful for joining two pieces of wood where they meet, such as along the edges of a tabletop or the sides of an armoire. Jointers can also flatten large panels and make them even since they can remove material from the surface quickly and accurately.

Advantages of Owning a Wood Jointer

Using a wood jointer can save you time because it does most of the work for you, eliminating the need for multiple hand tools like chisels and sanders. It also produces precise results that are difficult to get with hand tools, ensuring that your projects have clean lines and a uniform thickness. Having a wood jointer in your shop also eliminates extra steps that would otherwise be required.

Safety Considerations

Before using any power tool like a wood jointer, it is crucial to take safety precautions, such as wearing eye protection and keeping your hands and hair away from the moving parts. Use caution when cutting large panels or boards, as they could kick back unexpectedly if they are not held firmly against the machine’s fence while cutting. When using a laser level, remember to wear safety glasses with UV lenses to protect your eyes from the beams.

Conclusion

A wood jointer is an invaluable tool for carpentry projects. It can create uniform joints quickly and accurately, saving you time and effort in the long run. With a little knowledge and the right jointer, you can tackle even the most complex carpentry jobs with ease. Just remember to follow all safety precautions while operating a jointer, and you can enjoy the benefits of this versatile tool for many years to come.