10-06-2009, 09:59 AM
I used dimensional lumber for most of the frame work for my layout. However for those who have been following my layout thread, one will note I had a small disaster take place when a sizable 2 x 8 section of the layout decided to break on me. I replaced this section with some 3/4 ply ripped into 3" strips. I measured and cut all the wood outside on my table saw and assembled the pieces in my basement almost in place. I made my legs and angle bracing from the same 3" ply strips. I must say that to me personally it is a far superior method of building frame work then the dimensional lumber I used in other sections. As for the splitting problem pre-drilling and countersinking your screw holes will prevent it. Using glue at the joints also creates a nice solid secure joint, personally however I would not rely solely on the glue to support any kind of mechanical load. I was going to take it one step further and notch the joints with a stacked dado blade however was a little pressed for time and the weather was not co-operating.
The only suggestion I would make with regards to using the metal studs for frame work is to wear gloves. That stuff when cut can have some reeeeeally nasty sharp edges which can take your fingers apart in no time.
I don't know if I'd use PVC pipe. PVC pipe can be quite brittle and can easily crack or break if under any form of mechanical load. The fact that it is typically used to transport fluids (i.e. waste water) under very little to no pressure at all tells me it is not a good material choice for a structure as large as bench work. For the smaller patio furniture items where the distances are kept short I'm sure the material is fine. However I think that if you wanted to build benchwork with it, you's seriously need to over engineering it by adding additional bracing and plenty of extra support. All of which may interfere with mechanisms and wiring under the layout.
That's just my two cents.
The only suggestion I would make with regards to using the metal studs for frame work is to wear gloves. That stuff when cut can have some reeeeeally nasty sharp edges which can take your fingers apart in no time.
I don't know if I'd use PVC pipe. PVC pipe can be quite brittle and can easily crack or break if under any form of mechanical load. The fact that it is typically used to transport fluids (i.e. waste water) under very little to no pressure at all tells me it is not a good material choice for a structure as large as bench work. For the smaller patio furniture items where the distances are kept short I'm sure the material is fine. However I think that if you wanted to build benchwork with it, you's seriously need to over engineering it by adding additional bracing and plenty of extra support. All of which may interfere with mechanisms and wiring under the layout.
That's just my two cents.