Center match, also known as tongue and groove, is a type of joint commonly used in woodworking and construction. In this joint, one edge of a board has a groove (slot) milled along its entire length, while the corresponding edge of the adjacent board has a protruding tongue that fits into the groove. When the tongue of one board is inserted into the groove of another, they interlock, creating a tight and secure joint.
This type of joint is often used in flooring, paneling, and siding applications, as it provides a seamless and sturdy connection between adjacent boards, preventing gaps and ensuring stability in the overall structure. Additionally, center match or tongue and groove joints can help to minimize the effects of expansion and contraction caused by changes in temperature and humidity, making them particularly well-suited for use in environments where such fluctuations are common, such as in outdoor decking or interior flooring.