Hi all,
I’m brand new to woodworking (mostly using handtools), and as a first project have been putting together a patio end table (pictures attached, the top pieces are not yet attached). I’m trying to figure out the best way to attach the top slats, the original design I followed used pocket hole screws, but I both don’t own the jig etc. and am just generally not that inspired by pocket hole joinery. I used mortise and tenons for the leg and apron connections. Options I’ve considered for the top are
(1) Make wooden turn buttons (I can’t figure out if these would work on a slatted top like this since each board would just be attached at two ends?)
(2) Buy metal brackets
(3) Just glue it on (Would there be enough stress in directions other than down that they really need fasteners? Are the boards thin enough that expansion/contraction isn’t an issue?)
For reference the table’s ~22 inches wide and tall, and the slats are 1.25 x 4. Any thoughts are very appreciated!
Replies
It looks like a good job so far. Wood movement needs to be considered. I would use hardware shaped like a figure eight fastened on table top end grain sides (where the least wood movement occurs).
On the 2 end aprons attach a 1x1 wood strip at the inside top of the apron. Use screws.
From below, put a screw through each strip into the underside of each top board. One screw per top board, right in the middle. Leave a slight gap between each top board.
Do not glue it, use cleats, either wood or metal, screwed to the top Planks and inserted to a slot inside the aprons.
All of the above suggestions are good and doable. I think the easiest is the ledger strip fastened to the end aprons. Then use a couple of screws to fasten down the end of each slat. I don't think that the slats are wide enough to be real concerned about expansion and contraction. However, it looks like you are using construction grade lumber and this may have a tendency to twist and warp. There is not much you can do to prevent it. Just be aware that you may need to replace some pieces on occasion.
You don't say what the finish will be. For exterior use, I suggest that you use a heavy bodied stain or house trim paint to protect it from as much warpage as possible. Also, coat all sides before you attach the top slats.
To echo previous posters, I would go with the 1x1 strip across the end aprons and screw in from the bottom using removable spacers between each slat. You'll need at least 6 spacers, 9 would be better, and they look like inverted T's. They can be shop made and rest on top of the slats. With the spacers installed, clamp the table top tight, and screw in from the bottom (or top, if you are working with the legs up) through pre-drilled holes. As mentioned before, be sure to finish the slats before hand. Table looks good and nice work on the joinery..
Thank you all for the great suggestions! I'll give the 1x1 strip a shot, since I've got the materials for that lying around. For the finish I was planning to use spar urethane.
I recommend that you do some reading on exterior finishes. Most any clear finish, including spar varnish or spar poly, will not hold up well outdoors, particularly if it will be in the sun. You will need many coats (6-8) to get any substantial protection. The UV rays deteriorate the wood fibers which fail and take the varnish with them. You will end up having to strip and refinish frequently. Pigmented finishes hold up best outdoors.
That's good to know, I'll read up on that. It'll be living on my covered porch, so it shouldn't get much direct sun or rain. I was hoping to preserve the knotty look of the wood as much as I could get away with, but sounds like I might want to compromise (frequent refinishing does not sound fun). Thanks again for the help!
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