Workbench question

[RH2]

Hi all,

After seeing all of the great work here, I plan on getting 2 HF 44" cabinets, bolting them together, and then putting a workbench top on them. I will probably get a 16 gauge cold rolled steel top fitted if it isn't cost prohibitive.

Now for my question...should I do each top separately and have a seam or have it contiguous? Will a seam be annoying? I like the idea of going separate because I would have flexibility down the road to split them up and use them as work stations again.

I'm just a homeowner and these will see very light duty use.

Thanks,
Robert

 

[marty_p]

Welcome to TGJ, Robert!

If you don't forsee moving the bench around, aim for one complete top. And if it will definitely be stationary, consider a toe kick beneath the boxes - as in a raised base to set them if you remove the casters. Your back will thank me later!

Also, check out the HUGE, 45+ page "Let's see your Workbench" thread here for lots of ideas:
http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=464&highlight=let's+workbench

And here is a stationary setup you may like:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=201182

Keep us pic people happy when your project materializes, and good luck in the meantime!

 

[Thumper68]

I would do a one piece top, you can always cut it in half later. If you go this route get the top 8 or 10 inches longer, so the if you do split them then you will still have a over hang on each side.

 

[48windsor]

I agree with the others make it one piece or the seam will drive you nuts. I myself bought a 6ft shelf just to cut in half and used a quarter inch steel for a top . I do a little welding and can ground the bench and weld anywhere on top . Its really been nice.

 

[DIC]

I would say one piece.. separate probably wouldn't line up just right and bug me

 

[JasonJ]

I just went through doing the same thing. I went with a one piece top that spans both cabinets plus some extra on both sides.

My Thread on it:
http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=221969

 

[upndown]

It wouldn't hurt to have a little overhang in the front as well, a little something to clamp projects to if needed.

 

[A**holes Garage]

I fabricated two steel benches that **** together. One of the two benches is specifically designed as a welding table and is portable around the garage. The second bench is a copy but has a tool box and a solid top without fixture slots.

I prefer the flexibility of both benches being portable and having two styles of benches. They **** together exactly. I also have adjustable height wheels.

I have a third bench I built many years ago and I modified it to **** against these two. Having modular bench sections also allows you to place equipment between the benches as well, like a floor mounted drill press, welder, etc.

 

[John in OH]

Make it in one piece for now. If you ever want separate work stations you can always cut the top in half.

+1 on the previous suggestions for some overlap for clamping, toe-kick space, and maybe a knee-hole space if you want to sit and work on something.

 

[RH2]

Thanks for the welcome and all of the great info! Great pictures! I'm going to follow the advice given and go with one piece. If I ever do want to change, I can worry about it then.

Thanks! I can't wait to poke around here some more.

Thanks,
Robert

 

[marty_p]

Thanks! I can't wait to poke around here some more.

Just safeguard your wallet, credit/debit cards, and all liquid investments until the 'I need that' urge passes!

Good luck, and remember to hit us back with pics!