throughdowel

A throughdowel is a mechanical fastener used in woodworking and construction. It is a rod, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, that passes entirely through two or more pieces of material, joining them together. The dowel is usually secured in place by adhesive, friction fit, or a combination of both.

Throughdowels are commonly used to reinforce structural joints, particularly in applications where significant stress is expected. For example, they are often employed in furniture making to strengthen the connections between legs and aprons, or in timber framing for the assembly of beams and posts. In some cases, throughdowels are used decoratively, with their ends left exposed and sometimes shaped or finished.

The process of installing a throughdowel typically involves drilling a hole through all the pieces to be joined, ensuring the hole is slightly smaller than the dowel's diameter for a tight fit. The dowel is then driven into the hole, often with the aid of a mallet, and adhesive is applied to the hole or the dowel before insertion to create a strong, permanent bond. The length of the throughdowel is critical, as it must extend through all joining members and often slightly beyond for potential finishing. The material choice for a throughdowel depends on the strength requirements, environmental exposure, and aesthetic considerations of the project.