Router Table

[Luckbox]

I am planning to build a mobile router table with drawers. I was looking around today in Home Depot and came across a some 36" x 80" x 1-3/8" Solid Core Doors for $55 and was thinking I could get one cut it in half and use it for the router top and for a good solid base of the cabinet to attach casters to. I could cut a nice hard wood border for around the top. Has anyone done this? I was thinking of cutting the opening closer to one side so I could possibly attach an Incra router fence, and adding a couple t racks on the top and possibly a t track in the vertical face of the table. I was also wondering how well will the veneer of the door hold up as a router table top.

[BobSch]

I've got a BORG solid core door as the top of my bench and have been happy with it.

[JimD]

I think it would work but it would hold up better with a sheet of formica on the top. The top of my router table is a sink cutout. I added a sheet of 3/4 plywood under and maple edging all around. If you can find them, they are high density particle board with the formica already attached. And they are cheap.


Jim

[John Hunter]

I agree about the counter top being a great way to go. I am lucky there is a store that sells seconds and damaged countertops and I picked up a piece for mine and it has worked out great.

[johnftexas]

Sounds great but if you decide to add laminate I would recommend you also laminate the bottom to provide balanced tension so it won't warp. A tiny change in humidity will cause quite a bit of warpage. You can get balance sheet material for that purppse or just use some of the same laminate used on the top.

[Luckbox]

Thanks for the info. I have been watching craigslist for a while and nothing really has caught my eye. I might try Habitat for Humanity and see what they have, might even pick up some used cabinet for under the table. I am in no rush so I can look around for some other options.

[schloff]

Habitat Re-Store. They have a very wide selection of [lots]. I was shocked at the cabinet doors there. All for $5 a piece regardless of size. Stains, sealers,hinges, pulls, salvaged counters, etc...

I need to go back at payday.

[sangus]

Thanks for the reminder of Habitat RE-store.. I'm in the same boat of needing a sturdy table. My store bought fairly light weight does'nt cut it.
Should be able to pick up a counter top there.
HD in their kitchen cabinet section has very inexpensive laminate and adhesive ..... I understand all exposed areas of the top should be sealed with laminate.
Also, someone here mentioned the insert plate carried by HF, about $15.00. With all this may be able to have the table completed in the next few days. Need a fence though.
Thanks all.

Art.