work bench top

[Garage5.9]

going to be building a small bench for my garage approx 4x2 out of wood. Only thing im not sure of is what gauge sheet metal i should use for the top ? i have a bunch of street signs and was thinking of using them or should i go with steel
?

 

[toolman1967]

I have used lots of different tops and have found that 1/8 inch is a good compromise between cost and strength. Thicker is always nice but if cost is an issue you can get the 1/8 inch fairly cheap.

Street signs are a good alternative but will melt if you plan on welding on them. I bought 15-20 large signs at an auction several years ago and I use the metal for everything.

 

[Ocular Engineer]

I'll second the steel vote. IMO, get 1/8" or thicker.

If you use the aluminum and have something heavy to put on the bench, you may end up just putting divots in the bench top. Plus, heavy steel items will dig into (or at least resist sliding) the aluminum when you try to slide them around your bench top.

 

[mobetta]

are you covering solid wood? or capping a frame?

 

[Jack Olsen]

What are you going to use the bench for?

If you're not going to be spilling liquids or doing precise assembly on the top, then seams between aluminum signs shouldn't be a big issue. If you're pounding on it, aluminum will develop a 'divot patina' sooner than steel will.

 

[Garage5.9]

What are you going to use the bench for?

If you're not going to be spilling liquids or doing precise assembly on the top, then seams between aluminum signs shouldn't be a big issue. If you're pounding on it, aluminum will develop a 'divot patina' sooner than steel will.

Most likley the occasional pounding on things also spillage will be likley.thanks for the input I think il spend a few extra bucks and go with steel.