A wedge (Dutch: keg) is a tapered piece of material — usually wood, sometimes plastic or metal — thin at one end and thick at the other. By pushing the wedge further in or back, the effective thickness changes, which lets you level, secure or pack out parts and take up play.
How it works
The tapered shape turns a small movement along its length into a fine change in thickness or height. That makes the wedge a simple yet accurate levelling aid:
- Levelling — setting frames, doors, floor slabs and furniture level and to the right height.
- Clamping — holding two parts together or firm in a recess.
- Taking up play — filling gaps between parts so there is no movement.
Wedges are often used in pairs (opposing each other), so the top stays flat while you fine-tune the height.
Application
- Fitting frames and doors — packing wedges between frame and reveal.
- Floors and thresholds — setting them flat and level.
- Assembly work — temporary clamping or support during installation.
Points to watch
- Saw off protruding wedges neatly after fixing.
- For loaded or permanent situations use durable wedges (plastic or hardwood) that will not rot or crush.
- After levelling, fill the space with (PU) foam or mortar where needed, so the load does not rest on the wedges alone.
Related terms
- Dowel
- Wood joints
- Mortise and tenon joint
- Nail punch
- Spirit level
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.