ridgeandgroove

Ridgeandgroove refers to a class of interlocking profile joints in which a raised ridge on one component fits into a corresponding groove on an adjacent component. The term is used across several trades, but it is not a single standardized joint; specific dimensions and tolerances vary by region, industry, and manufacturer. The concept provides alignment guidance and a degree of shear resistance while allowing some edge-to-edge movement.

In design and fabrication, ridge height, groove width, and overall profile are chosen to balance ease of assembly with fit accuracy. Typical tolerances are tight enough to maintain alignment but allow simple assembly without specialized fastening. Materials include wood and engineered wood products, plastics and composites, and metals, each requiring appropriate tooling and processes. In woodworking, ridge-and-groove features are often produced with routers, shapers, or CNC machines; in plastics and metals, extrusion, stamping, or molding may be used.

Common applications include floor and wall paneling, cladding, and siding systems where quick installation and a clean appearance are prioritized. The profile also appears in packaging, architectural exterior and interior systems, and some machinery or equipment enclosures that rely on interlocking panels. Ridgeandgroove profiles can be designed to accommodate finishes, seals, or gaskets where required.

Compared with standardized joints like tongue-and-groove or rabbets, ridge-and-groove emphasizes a ridged interface and groove-based guidance rather than a single, universally defined geometry. Designers consider moisture, thermal expansion, and assembly methods to ensure durability and a gap-free appearance.

See also: tongue-and-groove, rabbet, dado, interlocking joints.