How to Notch Post & Beam Joints

Post and beam joints consist of half lap joints. Each board is notched to the width of the beam and to a depth of half the thickness of the beam so that the beams create a flush joint when they're locked together. Post and beam joints are traditionally notched using a hand saw, chisel and mallet. The simplicity of the joints provides their interesting look.

2 wooden beams
Tape measure
Lumber crayon
Hand saw
Mallet
Flat chisel

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the thickness and width of the beams.
- 2
  Mark the width onto the end of each beam where the joint will be formed. Measure and mark half the thickness of each beam at the location of the joint.
- 3
  Saw down to the marked depth on each beam on both sides of the width marks.
- 4
  Align the blade of the chisel horizontally between the saw cuts at the depth of the notch. Tap the chisel to remove the wood from each beam, creating the notched joint.
- 5
  Test the fit by placing the notched ends together. Shave more off from the notch with a chisel if necessary to create a flush-fitting joint.

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