Single or Double-thick Plywood?


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Old 10-13-17, 09:29 AM
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Single or Double-thick Plywood?

I have a frame built for a 6 x 3 garage workbench for my portable table saw (will not sit on bench top) and miter saw (on a flip-able shelf). Any opinions on using a single 3/4" plywood top or laminating two pieces for a 1.5" top? I'm concerned that the miter saw shelf may warp if only 3/4" thick. Would the double thick top be over-kill? I'm a weekend warrior and do not plan on mounting anything heavy (a vice, for ex) to this bench.

Thanks
 
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Old 10-13-17, 11:20 AM
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My bench is 3/4" and have good support and it's solid.

1 1/2 would be great but probably not necessary!
 
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Old 10-14-17, 05:59 AM
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I built my benches with two layers. The bottom is 3/4" plywood then I screwed a layer of 3/4" particle board on top for a nice smooth top. Then I applied several coats of motor oil to the particle board to make it water resistant and to help keep glue from sticking hard. Then when the particle board layer gets chewed up I replace it with a fresh sheet and have a new bench again.
 
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Old 10-14-17, 06:32 AM
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I like to use solid core commercial doors for my work benches. Many cases you can find the for free at commercial remodel jobs. Just hit a few dumpsters.
 
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Old 10-14-17, 06:44 AM
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I like sacrificial work surfaces that can be replaced occasionally as Pilot said. I also add a 1x around the front and any exposed sides as those edges get chewed up quickly.

Bud
 
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Old 10-15-17, 05:08 AM
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Another option is a piece of 3/4" MDF on top of the 3/4" plywood. This too will give a nice flat and smooth surface. If the MDF gets dinged you can flip it over for a fresh surface. MDF is fairly inexpensive. Drive screws from the underside to attach the MDF to the plywood. Another good sacrificial surface is tempered hardboard.
 
 

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