HANNAH\LAUREN REINFORCEMENT GLUE BLOCKS (OR CLEATS)

#Reinforcement Glue Blocks & Cleats

Reinforcement glue blocks and cleats are used to add stability to a piece of furniture, specifically joints, while they are being glued-up. Although these pieces are not removed, and are also added to a piece to repair it, or when refinishing it. 

Historically, these blocks are added on with Hyde glue and held on to adhere (rubbed glue joint).

Secondary woods were most commonly used for glue blocks in furniture building. Therefore, you can check that you have a real antique if the Hyde glue joint reacts to water to become sticky and if the glue blocks are made from a secondary wood.

GLUE BLOCKS ON A CHAIR

Glue blocks can be fit to a specific shape and can be used in the original assembly or in repair.

The point of glue blocks and cleats is to strengthen the piece towards all common stressors, because they balance the force across a wider surface area and stabilize joints and angles. However, if you add metal fasteners then you run the risk of attaching pieces too tightly, which will encourage warping with wood movement. 

Many of these glue blocks are hidden, so secondary woods can be used. Also, they are primarily attached with soluble adhesives so they can be removed if the piece needs to be repaired. 

Yes, under a chair cushion. Or in drawer corners, or as a drawer stop. 

Interesting. Seems to indicate good craftsmanship.