Tolerances refer to the allowable limits of variation in the dimensions and fit of timber elements during manufacturing and assembly. In timber engineering, especially when using DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) and creating production drawings, accounting for tolerances is crucial to ensure that all components fit together perfectly on-site.
What makes them even more critical in timber construction is the material’s natural tendency to shrink and expand due to changes in moisture levels. This behavior introduces additional complexity, as variations in timber dimensions can occur over time, affecting the precision of the assembly. Without proper consideration of tolerances, even a minor deviation—sometimes as small as 1 millimeter—can lead to significant issues during assembly, such as misalignments or the need for costly adjustments.
At Ergodomus, we meticulously calculate tolerances during the design phase, ensuring that every element, from joints to connections, is fabricated to account for these natural changes, allowing for smooth on-site assembly and long-term stability.