What tongue and groove means
Tongue and groove boards have a projecting edge on one side and a slot on the other, so boards lock together edge to edge.
Also called T and G.
Where it matters on a carpentry job
Used for flooring, subfloors, ceilings and paneling. Blind nailing through the tongue hides fasteners; leaving room for wood movement keeps the boards from buckling.
What it costs
Jobs that involve tongue and groove are priced in the hardwood floor installation cost guide: about $4,350 typical, usually $2,650 to $6,700. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price.
Work it out
- Cost guide: Hardwood floor installation cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free carpentry resources