Lap joint is a type of joint in which two pieces of wood are made to overlap each other. Four versions of a lap joint are commonly found in cabinets. Each version has a distinct strength and carpenters decide which is suitable for any particular project. The four common styles of the lap joint are dovetail lap, cross lap, half lap and mitered lap.

 

Each one is identifiable by a unique feature. Lap joints are categorized into two broad groups: full lap and half lap. The complete thickness of the original pieces is obtained in a full lap as no part of the individual materials is removed. Half laps are more popular because they offer an evenly secure joint and promote equal thickness and smooth transitions in the entire project.