I'm working on setting up an office inside a toy hauler RV and I'm planning to use a solid wood workbench top measuring 23" x 84" x 1 1/4" from Home Depot. My desk will be held up by two brackets attached to a HappiJac system, which has a spacing of 4' 6". While the desk is 7' long, there's a 2' overhang on one end that isn't directly supported. I'm trying to figure out how to reinforce the desk to prevent sagging. I'm considering using L-shaped metal support pieces along the entire length, but they'll be interrupted by the supports. Alternatively, I could attach a vertical piece of wood along the back edge. The desk isn't very deep (only 23"), while the supports are 24" deep. Additionally, I need advice on the optimal spacing between supports for a 1 1/4" hardwood desk top, especially since I'll have my computer (a Mac Studio with a 27" display, under 30 lbs) and a keyboard tray hanging below.
2 Answers
The HappiJac system should handle your setup well since it’s rated for around 450 lbs, but keep in mind that hardwoods can sag over time, especially in the middle. To prevent this, I recommend adding L-shaped stiffeners along the desk where the supports are located. This will help distribute the weight better. Given the span of 4'6", using two rows of these stiffeners should significantly help with rigidity, especially where there’s overhang.
Also, with the supports being 4'6" apart, if you can manage it, adding a third support in the middle could really bolster the stability.
I’d say your approach with the L-shaped metal supports is a solid idea. The tinier the distance between the supports, the less chance of sag. If you can, go for around 24" between supports instead of the 4'6" mentioned. It'll make a huge difference! Just keep an eye on that overhang too, as adding some vertical support there would help a ton.
Thanks for the advice! I’m definitely going to look into trying these suggestions out.
Another tip: don’t forget to check your setup over time—you might need to adjust later if the dings start to show.
Yeah, definitely go for the L-stiffeners! Just make sure they’re securely attached between the supports, and that should help a lot with the sagging issue.