« back to Woodworking Skill Share forum
Forum topic by pjones46 | posted 04-18-2011 07:55 AM | 1492 views | 0 times favorited | 5 replies | ![]() |
![]() |
04-18-2011 07:55 AM |
Topic tags/keywords: question I have been asked to build two 10’ rectangular picnic tables. My question is why are 6’ and 8’ the only one’s available at the big box stores. Is there something I am missing other than beefing up the legs, seat, and seat supports. -- Respectfully, Paul |
5 replies so far
#1 posted 04-18-2011 11:21 AM |
Those are standard lenghts for tables everywhere, maybe???? -- Bob in WW ~ "some old things are lovely, warm still with life ... of the forgotten men who made them." - D.H. Lawrence |
#2 posted 04-18-2011 02:41 PM |
Good Job -- E J ------- Always Keep a Firm Grip on Your Tool |
#3 posted 04-19-2011 06:09 AM |
Pj, Six and eight footers are standard because that’s how long most pickup beds are. When you make the table longer you will have a span issue with the seat because of the distance between the legs from one end to the other. Ther are a couple ways to skin that cat. One being to put a joist beneath the seat from -- Darrell, making more sawdust than I know what to do with |
#4 posted 04-19-2011 07:16 AM |
Great looking table. I have planned to put a strong back on the bench portion for extra support. This should reduce the deflection as you indicated due to expanse between the legs. A similar strong back would be added on the overhang so that I could move the legs a bit closer to the center. Trying to end up with about 19” overhang should the customer wish wheel chair access at one or both ends. Bench cross ties/stretchers and legs sizes would be bumped up in size to handle the expected load and an excellent suggestion that you made was the extra table top ties to reduce warp and twisting at ends. Really appreciate the input and ideas. -- Respectfully, Paul |
#5 posted 04-21-2011 02:51 PM |
Sounds like you have your answer for building but another reason the stores generally only carry 6’ to 8’ tables is that 1) They are a better size to work into palletized shipping logistics and 2) They are more employee/stocking friendly from a weight and size perspective. In short, big heavy oddball sizes don’t fit the workflow of mass retail systems. Oh yes, and the typical family doesn’t need a table that big. They carry what sells. I’ve seen massive tables at public picnic shelters around here. I think some must be pushing 20 feet. 4×6 legs, 3 or 4 leg sets, that kind of beast! |
Have your say...
You must be signed in to reply.
|
Forum | Topics |
---|---|
Woodworking Skill Share
|
12033 |
Woodturning
|
2108 |
Woodcarving
|
431 |
Scrollsawing
|
340 |
Joinery
|
1370 |
Finishing
|
4906 |
Designing Woodworking Projects
|
6695 |
Power Tools, Hardware and Accessories
|
28065 |
CNC Woodworking
|
212 |
Hand Tools
|
5412 |
Jigs & Fixtures
|
1420 |
Wood & Lumber
|
6233 |
Safety in the Woodworking Shop
|
1388 |
Focus on the Workspace
|
2154 |
Sweating for Bucks Through Woodworking
|
1187 |
Woodworking Trade & Swap
|
4758 |
LumberJocks.com Site Feedback
|
2200 |
Coffee Lounge
|
8846 |