Darryl Keil Last Activity 2025-09-09 11:09 AM
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wes

Posts: 1

Joined: 2008-03-11

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Subject : chosing substrate for dining table top
Posted : 2008-03-12 12:11 AM
Post #34422
Building an expanding double pedestal table, with the top sized at 45" by 72" closed, expanding up to 96" when open. The two pedestals will provide pretty good support for the top, but I'm still undecided about what to use as substrate for the top. The top will be veneered with quarter sawn ash, and have approx 1 1/2" hardwood edge banding.

I know MDF is recommended for veneering, but given its weight and tendency to sag, am concerned going this route. 3/4" birch ply is an option, but sheet stock I get is seldom flat. Also considering 3/4" honeycomb, based on what I've heard about its strength, light weight and flatness.

Can anyone comment on the pros and cons of these choices for the table top? Is building a honeycomb top for this application worth the effort, or is a birch ply substrate sufficient? Unless there's a better choice, I'd plan on using 1/4" MDF for the skins of the torsion boxes. Appreciate suggestions & advice.


 
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craig tufankjian

Posts: 308

Joined: 2004-02-01
Location: syracuse ny 13208

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Subject : RE: chosing substrate for dining table top
Posted : 2008-03-12 11:31 AM
Post #34423 - In reply to #34422
Hi Wes,

I see no problem with mdf considering the size. I regularly make tops with mdf without any problems. I would suggest 7/8 0r 15/16ths mdf. considering it will expand and have a leaf system I assume you will have an apron as well. this will lend great rigidity to the top as well, the solid wood edges will also help a great deal.

The apron system will keep your top flat.

Allow your mdf to acclimate to your shop conditions before veneering.

There is also light weight mdf if weight is a consideration.


 
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Dave Shaw

Posts: 37

Joined: 2005-11-06
Location: Arizona

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Subject : RE: chosing substrate for dining table top
Posted : 2008-03-12 5:37 PM
Post #34424 - In reply to #34423
Craig, how do you attach the aprons to the top? Would pocket screws work OK? I'll be building a table top much like Wes's using MDF etc pretty much as suggested here. So, I'd like to know how a real table guy would attach the apron. Hope this question helps Wes as well.

Thanks,

Dave


 
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craig tufankjian

Posts: 308

Joined: 2004-02-01
Location: syracuse ny 13208

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Subject : RE: chosing substrate for dining table top
Posted : 2008-03-14 1:15 PM
Post #34429 - In reply to #34424
hi Dave,

there are several methods. from a production point of view i bore a hole in the bottom of the apron and use a pan head wood screw to attach to the top. this makes a cleaner look. pocket hole is another method and is starting to be widely used by manufacturers. the other alternative is what i call the crazy 8 . its nothing more than stamped metal plate with two holes in it. the larger hole is countersunk into the apron and the smaller is screwed to the top.

there is also the wooden block method but i think that looks cheezy.

traditionally aprons are 4 inches, so if you counter bore down 2 inches and space the holes 6 inches apart, use a 2 1/2 inch pan head wood screw this is the cleaner and more professional way.

craig


 
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Dave Shaw

Posts: 37

Joined: 2005-11-06
Location: Arizona

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Subject : RE: chosing substrate for dining table top
Posted : 2008-03-16 10:01 PM
Post #34438 - In reply to #34429
Hi Craig, Thanks very much for the information. It will be very useful.

Dave
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