Sandwich construction... advice needed

[Krob]

I am in the midst of cutting the framing for the walls of my sandwich contruction. How critical are the joints between the frame members. While my ends are meeting one another, there is still a slight misalignment due to using a circular saw to cut all the strange angles. Will this affect the strength of the final product?

Kevin

[doug hodder]

Krob...I think by the time you get the skins on the framing, it isn't going to be a problem, it may not look pretty now, but the surfaces will tie it all together in a strong package...and if you are using epoxy...just thicken up a batch and it will fill the gap if you are worried...Doug

[madjack]

...I always use mayo to close up gaps in my sandwich...some use a little mustard or hor.... oops, my bad, thought we were talking sandwiches...
madjack
p.s. what Doug said...as long as everything is in the same plane(flat) those little gaps wont matter......

[Arne]

I would not worry about minor stuff, but would put some building adhesive in there if it bothers you.... easy to do and it will add a little strength.

[Micro469]

I wouldn't listen to those Guys..... They have NO idea what their talking about!!!!

[asianflava]

A sandwich structure gets most of it's strength from the faces. But it is important to have a good core. The core should have even contact on the face to avoid any stress points.

If the loose joints are backed up by a solid one, you are OK. The sidewalls aren't subject to extreme stress anyway. I'd just be sure the hinge stringers have a tight joint though, those areas do get a lot of concentrated stress.

[Krob]

Thanks guys, I was getting frustrated trying to get the perfect fitting joints, however I am sure the folks at HD didn't mind when I went back for another load of lumber to replace the wood I was throwing away I guess that trying to emulate the masterpieces of my heroes here on T&TTT is going to be a continuous challenge. Perfection is never easy

[madjack]

K, perfection ??? why do you think most of us build more than one...if you ask around you will find that most of us (could) have built at least a fire or two with our mistakes....
madjack

[doug hodder]

Jack...that's what heats my shop!!! Doug

[Miriam C.]

Thanks guys, I was getting frustrated trying to get the perfect fitting joints, however I am sure the folks at HD didn't mind when I went back for another load of lumber to replace the wood I was throwing away I guess that trying to emulate the masterpieces of my heroes here on T&TTT is going to be a continuous challenge. Perfection is never easy

I hear pickle juice helps.

They make boats of plywood and wire (or is it wire ties too) and epoxy. The advice is to leave a gap so the epoxy can give the joint strength. Epoxy might be your best idea and add fiberglass if you are unsure.

Oh yeah, ya could also use the metal joiner plate thingys. Just remember where they are so you don't try to screw through one.
Miriam

[madjack]

Jack...that's what heats my shop!!! Doug

...well thar ya go...proof positive...and straight from Daisy's pets' mouth... ...........................

[Krob]

Maybe if i drink enough pickle juice I will not notice ... where is Chip when I need the pickle bottle ? However in the meantime the epoxy may be a good idea, thanks Miriam!!

[asianflava]

Heh heh I just had a screw up last night. Luckily, the ants are the only ones who will notice this one. I was cutting a rabit on the doors using the jointer. I started the cut but the door wandered from vertical and the rabit got a little thin.

Different people have different perspectives on "What is good enough". I dropped mine a couple notches when I realized my expectations far exceeded my skill.

I've found that a little practice goes a long way. Another thing I've learned is that trim and molding is great for covering up bad joints.

[doug hodder]

Rocky....molding hides a multitude of sins....I've got some serious "gaposeous" and when I try to figure out how it got there...I realize that's a waste of time...it's done...now hide it!!!! doug

[Arne]

I used to be a 98%'er..... now I'm about a 92%'er..... requires a lot less do-overs.....