Kerf

The width of the slot or groove cut by a saw blade as it passes through material. In cabinetry, kerf is an important measurement when calculating material yield and fitting precision joints. Thin-kerf blades waste less material and require less motor power. Kerf cuts are also used decoratively — a series of shallow parallel kerfs on the back of a panel allows it to be bent around curves.

Specifying this for a job? Captivating Pro members buy at 20–40% off retail and get cut sheets before rough-in.