edge joining 2x12 cypress

[gateman]

I got an order today for a 3'x5' cypress sign. It will be made of 2x12 boards edge joined together. Im getting different opinions on the best way to edge join the boards though. Some folks say glue alone is fine (Im a little leary of that though), some say router out a slit in the edges and use biscuits, and others say dowels and glue. What do you guys recommend to do, and what type of glue have you found works best? This sign will be hanging from the top (no side support).

Thanks in advance,
Rod

[txcncman]

Tongue and groove would be stronger than any others mentioned. How much strength do you need?

[gateman]

Strong enough to where it doesn't come apart I guess! Lol

[jharvey407]

If you joint the edges so that they are square and true, you can use titebond II. The glue joint will be stronger than the wood.

[gateman]

good to know! thanks guys!

[jharvey407]

Please let us know what method you use, as well as the results.

thanks

[keebler303]

Tongue and groove would work well.
A dovetail would be ideal but I wouldn't want to be the one who had to hammer it together for 5 feet.
Biscuits and pocket screws would work fine if its a single sided sign.

Matt

[LouF]

Glue alone will work...


Lou

[keebler303]

Glue alone will work...


Lou

On an outside sign after years of weather, glue alone will fail.

Matt

[LouF]

On an outside sign after years of weather, glue alone will fail.

Matt

Where does it say it will be hung outside I must have missed that...


Lou

[gateman]

Yes it will be an outside sign. I'm gonna do 3/8" dowels and gorilla glue.

[Joe Crumley]

Glued up four more today. I've been gluing signs for thirty years and haven't had a problem yet.

I use Weldwood Plastic Resin Glue mixed to thickness of pancake batter. Waffers and splines don't do anything except help with alignment.



Joe Crumley
Norman Sign Company, Norman, Oklahoma, SandBlasted Signs, Sign Painter, Redwood Signs