A cleat is a strip or shaped piece used to support, locate, reinforce or hang another woodworking component. Different cleats solve different jobs, from supporting a shelf to hanging a cabinet on a French cleat.
French Cleat
A French cleat uses two mating strips with complementary bevels. One attaches to the wall or structure and the other to the item being hung. It is useful when the item may need to be lifted off later.
Shelf and Support Cleats
A straight cleat or batten can support a shelf, countertop edge, cabinet component or panel. Its job is usually to provide a bearing surface and a reliable fastening line.
Alignment and Fixture Cleats
Temporary cleats can locate parts during assembly, establish a reference edge, or hold a jig in a repeatable position. They may be screwed, clamped or otherwise attached so they can be removed after the operation.
How to Choose
Start with the function: hanging, supporting, locating or temporarily holding. Then consider whether the cleat must be removable, hidden and compatible with the substrate and fasteners you will use.
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