How to Build the Ultimate Workbench for DIY Projects
As a do-it-yourselfer, you have a long list of projects around the house you can’t wait to tackle. However, before you can start on any of those, you’re going to need a dependable workbench, and if you don’t have that, well, it’s obvious what project should be top priority.
So, it’s time to build a workbench. You have it all planned out, measured and you’re already visualizing your new handyman headquarters in your garage. You’re ready to build, but then a thought pops into your head.
“What kind of wood should I use?”
Don’t worry; Baird Brothers is here to help. Let’s take a look at some of your options and get to work.
First and foremost, hard work requires hardwood. As in, if you want your new work surface to be able to handle any abuse you put it through, you’re going to want to opt for a more durable wood species, such as Oak or Hard Maple. We suggest using oak for the surface of your workbench for an affordable and quality end-product that is strong enough to handle any particularly tough projects thrown its way but remember that Hard Maple is slightly harder than Red Oak.
While it is possible to build a workbench from a softwood such as pine, we would advise against this, as the top will be more susceptible to wounds during your work. Over time, these small gouges can cause a work surface to turn into a safety hazard if you’re not careful
Also, if you’re the kind of person who values aesthetics as much as functionality, you might want to consider applying some sort of finish to the wood surface of your workbench. Yes, this will be delaying the inevitable reality that this surface, as a workbench, will take some abuse and will not stay shiny and new. But for those who desire that kind of polish, if even for a moment, we suggest applying a coat of ZAR wipe-on tung oil or polyurethane.
In addition to our in-stock 2” thick x 8’ long Red Oak and Hard Maple industrial workbench tops, which come in two standard widths (25-1/2”W or 30”W), we can also produce custom sized tops up to 12’ in length and 5’ in width.
If you’re a craftsman who wants your workbench looking just as good as the projects you’re working on, you can go with one of Baird’s custom Butcher Block or Plank Tops. They’re not only beautiful but are made to take on the most daunting of tasks. Both come in any size and species that you’re looking for and are custom built just for you.
At the end of the day, the type of projects you plan on tackling, the frequency of use and willingness to care for the finished product are all factors that should be considered when deciding on your workbench top surface. No matter the cut you need, Baird Brothers Fine Hardwoods has what you need to finish the project that will lead to many more.
