Simple cover for workbench lower shelf

[jimy]

I just moved into a new home and there is a 12 foot workbench in the basement. It has one shelf (full length) underneath which is perfect for my needs (chop saw, table saw, etc).

I'm looking to cover this to keep dust out. I think doors (hinged or sliding) will be awkward and restrictive for my big items. I'd like to just have two 6 ft plywood/luan/Masonite/? sheets that just hang off a few nails/screws on the bench (thru holes in the ply). I can just lift them off and set aside to get to my stuff.

What is the best material for a somewhat humid location? Lighter is probably better but not a huge concern.

thanks,

Jim

 

[gahrajmahal]

Free works for me, I’d look into some free pallets. Won’t warp in the humidity and looks cool too. Run a router over the edges. Alternately, cedar fence pickets make a nice rustic material too.

 

[cdestuck]

I had the same shelf set up and a dusty wood shop yo boot. I went to the yard goods store and bought some material that I stapled on the horizontal piece under the overhang on the bench top. Works very well, easy to get into the shelf.

 

[jimy]

I had thought about using material. Perhaps it would help if I put some weight (maybe a long dowel) at the bottom so I could easily set it on the benchtop.

One side had a 6 foot wide piece of plywood that hinged the long way at the top. You had to hold it up while you used the shelf. I removed that pretty quick!

Jim

 

[Zexx]

Harbor freight moving blankets, get them free when the coupon is out.

 

[nadogail]

How about a routine dusting from your air hose?

 

[jimy]

I went with lauan panels that lift off from 2 screws each. Simple and easy. Plus paint, masonite top, and banded with oak.

 

[didit]

I weld in my garage and have a policy of no cardboard, cloth, etc. and limit the use of wood or any other combustibles. So my answer to your question would be to build something out of aluminum. Easy to lift off, store and fairly cheap at any building supply outlet. Aluminum soffit comes in 12' lengths and can be easily riveted onto a frame of your design.

 

[Alchase]

I just open the doors once a week, and blow out the shop with leaf blower, works perfect!

LOL