Hello! I’m making a table that is 96″ long. The grain goes width way and in order to stabilize, I want touse c channels. However I can source any that are long enough. I do have 39″ channels already. Can I stagger them (like bricklay) to make the length? I can’t see where there may be a weak point, but not sure. The table is made from pine. Would skirts be ok?
Thanks!
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Based on your description without drawings or photos, I think, a skirt all around will provide all of the stability it needs. However, with the 96" length running perpendicular to the grain ("grain going width way") you will have significant seasonal wood movement to consider and accommodate. The "C" channels may even complicate this issue. You would need to make sure the wood can move along the channels. Also, I hope you are planning on intermediate legs for a table that long.
I wasn't planning to, and was initially thinking the channels may help. I would like to avoid extra legs so thinking I could make a frame underneath to stop it from sagging. Do you think that would suffice?
EDIT: The frame would have additional pieces
It can probably be done with skirts and additional frame supports. If your design allows, move the corner legs inboard (lengthwise) as much as possible to reduce the span.
Don't forget seasonal movement accommodations.
Absolutely. Ok, thank you so much for the advice!
Wood rails would suffice but in either case, at this length it could expand and contract 1/4 to 1/2 inch between seasons so fastening the rails or Chanel’s to the top should be done with cleats.
An article many years by Chris Beackensfort (sp?) spoke to sliding dovetails on the ends of a dresser.Yours being 96 inches long would have to be pinned in the center with the remainder free to allow the table to expand and contract .I would cut the male part of the dovetail on the table edge assuring the edge is dead straight.A very high fence on a router table needs to be devised with all sorts of spring holds to assure accuracy.I happen to also have a horizontal router that,if you are near Philadelphia,you are welcome to use