Hello everyone,
I have a question about what type of wood to use for a workbench top.
I have a choice between American Beech and Ash. Both are going to be cut from logs, so both are wet lumber. I read that Beech is harder to dry because it is prone to twisting and cracking. Ash is supposed to be easier to dry, but I am not sure if I want the open grain of ash. Although I could fill the grain, or not, depending on what it looks like.
Does anyone have any suggestions about the wood? I am looking to build a Roubo style workbench, so the top will be between 4 and 6 inches thick. And yes, I know it will take a long time to dry. Their will be two slabs glued together in the center like Chris Swarz Roubo bench.
Does anyone have any other suggestions?
Replies
You're one ambitious dude. 4-6 inch top? I hope you have a crane at your disposal.
All kidding aside, I am also in the process of building a long needed dedicated workbench. My top will be 3-inch kiln dried maple. I will take a look at beech when I get to the lumber store, but that chore will come later on this month. My top dimensions will be 3 x 34 x 66 inches which will weigh about 160 lbs or so.
Having said that, if you are going to use a flatsawn log (or two) with the heartwood facing up for your top as Roubo did, you are going to have to deal with all the vagaries of wood movement regardless of what type of tree log you use. Drying time could go on for years dependent on conditions.
I wish you the best.
Phillip
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