How to Notch Post & Beam Joints
- 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.