Run-out table top

[T...K21]

Any suggestions to what kind of ply to use on a run-out table top?

I'm in the process of making a new run-out/ assembly/ bench table.

I'm thinking of using a sheet of high density particle board as the base and was thinking either MDF or Melamine for a top because of the smooth surface.

I will later be using the top to laminate hardwood planks to make cabinets and wanted a top I could scrape glue off easily without destroying the surface.

I suppose I can lay Formica down on a top but I think it would be a waste.

Any suggestions?

Thanks, T

[LCHIEN]

Hi, welcome to the forum.

by "run-out" tabletop do you mean an outfeed table? To support long work coming off a table saw or other power tool?

[T...K21]

out feed table...yes

[radhak]

T, anything other than melamine would be a pain to clean, and MDF can be heavy. You could simply get a panel of the melamine-topped particle-boards sold in HD/Lowes. Saves you the trouble of gluing.

I used a 5/8" thick piece, discarded from my neighbor's kitchen renovation, and it's going strong.

[Richard in Smithville]

+1 0n the melamine. Buff it out with some paste wax and it will be like ice.

[pelligrini]

The MDF core melamine covered panels would be an effective solution. Be prepared for the weight though, they aren't light. I brought home a sheet of 3/4 from HD a while back for an outfeed table top. I also needed it to be portable too. I could barely move the sheet around by myself to cut it down to size. I ended up making it into a drill press cart and used a door for the outfeed table.

Another solution that would be replaceable and cost effective would be to skin the top with a sheet of white bathroom wallboard. The finish is much like a dry erase board on top of 1/4" tempered masonite.

[T...K21]

Thanks for the replies!

Melamine it is then.

I think I will look for the Melamine Erik spoke of. I think it will best of both materials.

[pelligrini]

At HD they keep it by the wall paneling sections. It's pretty cheap. My first introduction to the product was in architectural school. We would use it to cover our old Mayline drafting tables and layout tables.

I use an 8' strip of it and a straight 1x2 for a sawboard when cutting down sheetgoods. It's thin and the top is slick for my circular saw.

[T...K21]

Found it! I like it. It cuts and routes up nice. Thanks Erik!