What addition is typically made to account for potential wastage in material measurement?

When working with materials in cabinet, millwork, and finish carpentry, it is standard practice to account for wastage to ensure that the project is completed without delays due to insufficient materials. The addition of 10% is commonly recognized as a balanced estimate for potential wastage. This percentage includes considerations for mistakes made during cutting, miscalculations, or unexpected defects that may arise in the material itself.

This approach ensures that the carpenter has enough material to account for the various natural discrepancies that occur throughout a project. By adding this buffer, the overall efficiency and effectiveness of construction practices are improved, preventing the need for sudden stops to reorder materials, which can disrupt project timelines and budgets.