Workbenches & Building Options
by Frederick M Hueston
Workbenches are an essential tool for the handyman or the do-it-yourselfer. Just as an artist needs organization for quick access to a paintbrush, a builder needs a workbench for efficiency and to easily locate his/her tools.
Workbenches can be built from scratch, purchased in prefabricated kits or purchased as already complete and ready to use. The problem is that these previously assembled models can be very expensive, so many choose to build their own version. Workbenches are perfect for the basement, garage or a workshop and can usually be built over a period of one weekend.
Before strapping on your tool belt, take a moment to decide exactly how you want the finished project to take shape. Do you want a simple workbench or do you want drawers and other amenities? The next step is to determine what type of wood you will be using for this project. The majority of professional workbenches feature beech wood. For standard workbenches, birch wood is often the material of choice because of it’s combination of firmness and that fact that it is lightweight compared to beech wood. Finally, choose the desired dimensions for your new workbench. Make sure that it will fit in the designated space that you have selected and, if not, make room before proceeding. Workbenches are heavy and you do not want to continuously move them around to find the perfect spot. You can save yourself the hassle, and the backache, by measuring and making room before beginning to build.
Unless you are fortunate enough to envision the perfect workbench and build it without directions, then you may need to purchase a workbench plan. These are available at many home improvement stores or online at a variety of specialty woodworking websites. Each kit generally features multiple pages depicting diagrams, photos and step-by-step procedures to help you build the perfect tool haven. If you would like to take convenience one step further, consider purchasing a complete workbench kit. This type of product features all hardware, along with detailed instructions. More often than not, workbench kits will even include a list of places to purchase any additional needed hardware and a detailed parts list.
Building a workbench can be an intimidating, and difficult, task to undertake. Previously assembled workbenches are often expensive, so many do-it-yourselfers would rather build their own. If you are uncomfortable doing the job yourself, a professional builder may be able to step in and complete the workbench with little inconvenience to you. Because of scheduling conflicts, we are often unable to finish every project on time. This is where a contractor can step in and assist in getting the job done quicker. You will save money if you are able to source the material yourself, which will enable you to only owe the contractor only for labor costs and not the added charges for materials and other incidentals.
On the other hand, if you are determined to complete the task yourself, remember to protect your hands with work gloves and always wear safety glasses at all times. After long hours of construction, you will be proud to hang your tools and tool belt on the handsome new workbench that sits in your workspace. There’s nothing like a job well done and especially if that job is a labor of love.
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