In the context of Australian commercial construction projects, "scarfing" typically refers to a technique used in the preparation and joining of materials, particularly steel or timber. Scarfing involves creating a beveled or angled edge on a material so that it can be joined seamlessly with another piece. This technique is often used to ensure a strong and smooth connection between materials, which is crucial for structural integrity and aesthetic purposes.

In steel construction, scarfing might involve grinding or cutting the edges of steel beams or plates to prepare them for welding. This ensures that the weld penetrates deeply and uniformly, providing a strong joint. In timber construction, scarfing can involve cutting an angled or tapered joint in wood pieces so they can be glued or fastened together, often used in situations where long spans are needed, and the available timber lengths are insufficient.