Question for the more experienced and knowledgeable regarding building table tops.
I might have the chance to purchase some wide plank white oak, approx 23″ x 6 ft. Wood is suppose to have come from an old huge White oak tree. Some of the boards are cut from the center with tight grain (quartersawn…?) My inclination will be to get the tight grain boards.
Let’s suppose I use two planks to make a rectangular table top of about 40″ x 70″. How will you handle the wood to account for wood movement:
1- Rip the planks into smaller planks and glue them?
2- Just glue the two planks together to make the table top?
3- Thoughts, tips?
Wood suppose to have been kiln dried. I will store the planks in my house for quite a while before I tackle the project.
Thanks again for your great advice
Replies
Sorry, I meant to post this over at Knots. But hey, feel free to contribute...
Thanks
First of all I don't know how you could even cut usable 20" White Oak planks on a band saw without the thing turning into a broken piano string before it leaves the blade.
Let's suppose I use two planks to make a rectangular table top of about 40" x 70". How will you handle the wood to account for wood movement: That's an easy one. After gluing up 2 20" planks by 70" long, wait for it to cup, twist, warp, split, and grow hair. Then cut it up with a chain saw and use it to get the fire started in the morning.
Wood suppose to have been kiln dried. I see you've done your research. Try checking it with a moisture meter.
Rip the planks into smaller planks and glue them? Aha, you've got it. Rip 'em, flip em, clamp em.
BTW. Sounds like a yard tree. Better check it with a metal finder first.
Ditch
Edited 3/1/2003 7:49:07 PM ET by luvditchburns