What does the term “kerf” refer to in woodworking?

The term "kerf" specifically refers to the width of the cut made by a saw blade. When a saw cuts through a material, it removes some wood, and this removed strip of material is what is termed the kerf. Understanding kerf is particularly important in woodworking because it affects the precision and fit of joints. For instance, when making cuts for joinery, knowing the kerf can help ensure that pieces fit together snugly.

This term is crucial for calculations related to how much material will be lost in the cutting process, which can impact the overall dimensions of the finished piece, especially in tight-tolerance applications. It is an essential concept for carpenters to grasp when planning and executing cuts in woodworking projects.