I'm planning to build a desk approximately 5 to 5.5 feet wide and 25 inches deep. The hardware store near me has some ready-made tabletop options within my budget that aren't plywood. Here are my choices: 1) 1" thick oak, made from continuously joined full-length boards, 2) 1" thick birch, constructed from tiled pieces, and 3) 1.5" thick spruce, which seems to be made from full-length 1.5x1.5" beams. I want the table to be sturdy enough to avoid sagging or flexing when supported by legs on the outer edges, and I'm considering adding an apron at the back for added stability. I'll be using this desk for office work, so a smooth and durable surface is essential. Any advice would be appreciated!
2 Answers
For stability, definitely consider adding a skirt to the back of the desk to prevent any sagging. If you’re not planning to have a drawer in the front, adding a skirt there too would be beneficial. As for oak, just a heads-up that it needs grain filler to feel smooth, or you'll end up with a bumpy surface. Birch is nice and should serve you well. Good luck with your build!
I'd be cautious with spruce since it's the softest wood among your options and might get scratched up easily. Personally, I'm not a fan of red oak for desks—it looks nice but requires a grain filler to achieve a smooth finish, otherwise writing on it can be a hassle. Birch is a solid choice in my opinion, and it'll work well for your needs. Any of those woods should handle your desk's dimensions fine, and an apron will certainly help maintain its rigidity.
Thanks! I think I'll go with birch to keep things simple and I do like the color better, too.
Any tips on what finishes to use on birch for an office desk? I'm thinking of applying two coats and then calling it a day.
I appreciate the tips! Keeping it modular for easy moving and assembly sounds smart. I can add a ledge for hiding cables—good idea! I don't need drawers right now, but I might add a mobile unit later.