I'm considering making a 1" thick tabletop out of pine lumber, using 2x6s cut into 1.5" wide strips glued together. I'm wondering if this is a smart choice or if there are any major concerns aside from durability that I should be aware of.
3 Answers
Be careful if you're using construction-grade 2x4s! They can really warp and don't hold up well. For an inch-thick top, I'd recommend getting higher quality pine from a lumberyard, possibly in wider pieces. Also, remember, if you go with the 2x4s, you're going to have to joint and plane each piece for them to fit well. It can be a hassle, and in the end, you might regret not spending a bit more on hardwood like oak or cherry for durability.
It's a similar concept to building a workbench with 2x6s. However, I’d suggest starting with a wider board like a 2x12. That way, you can cut quartersawn strips for stability and skip the weaker parts of the wood. It'll hold up better in the long run!
Using 2x4 or 2x6 lumber for a table can actually work well if you let the wood sit in your garage for a couple of years to finish drying. Once it's dried properly, it can be surprisingly durable! Just keep in mind that it can be a bit softer than others, so watch out for dings and dents.