Using Old Panel Door for Workbench top
I’ve built a base for my first workbench out of 4x4s and 2x4s per the video project over the StartWoodworking site. It is rock solid, those threaded rods overcome a lot of imperfect technique!
I live in an old house and there were several orginal doors up against the back wall of the basement when we moved in. They are probably ~100 years old. The one I’m considering using for part of the top has panels and veneer over solid wood, some water damage. Pic attached. That door is really heavy, I think the bench would be very solid once it is mounted on the base. My plan is to put hardwood boards around the edge and screw a sheet of MDF onto the top. Put a vise on one end.
My question is if I should do anything to fill in the voids between the MDF and panels or is that not likely to be a concern? Or is this a dumb idea and I should just go for laminated MDF?
This is my starter bench, so I anticipate making a new one after I learn more and know what types of projects I enjoy the most.
Replies
use for 'light' work
If you don't fill the panel areas with something - maybe a lattice - your MDF top will eventually sag.
Without a 'fill' of some type you could use it as is with an MDF top for very light work that does not require a flat surface. You would not be able to flatten the MDF anyway even with 'fill.'
Forrest
Thanks Forrest. After pondering it further I decided to go with laminated MDF. The door would have required extra effort for not much pay off. I did like the idea of putting that old door to use. I'll find something else for it later.
(Not sure why the photo turned upside down!)
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